In our latest #illuminateByMeritto session, we had the privilege of hosting Brett DiMarzo, Director of Graduate Enrollment Digital Strategy at Boston College, for a thought-provoking discussion on how institutions can rethink their enrollment strategies in today’s competitive and evolving landscape. We explored how institutions can rethink their enrollment strategies in a rapidly evolving landscape. With increasing competition, shifting student expectations, and a growing emphasis on outcomes, universities must adopt a more strategic, data-driven approach to recruitment and engagement.

Setting the stage: Why rethink enrollment?

The session opened with a deep dive into the challenges facing graduate and professional education today. With shifting student expectations, rising competition, and an increasing focus on outcomes, institutions must evolve their approach to attract, engage, and enroll the right students. Universities can no longer rely on traditional recruitment methods and must embrace a data-driven, student-centric approach.

Key discussions: What’s changing & how to adapt

The conversation revolved around several critical aspects of enrollment strategy:

• Standing out in a crowded market: With institutions vying for the same pool of students, differentiation is more important than ever. Universities must clearly define what makes them unique—be it academic rigor, career outcomes, specialized programs, or community engagement.
• Meeting student expectations: Today’s students expect a personalized experience, seamless digital interactions, and clear career pathways. Institutions that leverage technology and data-driven insights can create more targeted and engaging recruitment strategies.
• Building the right student pool: Enrollment success isn’t just about increasing applications—it’s about attracting the right students. The discussion highlighted how institutions can use predictive analytics, CRM tools, and strategic outreach to connect with prospective students who align with their mission and values.
• Balancing academic excellence, adaptability, and engagement: Institutions must find the right equilibrium between maintaining academic standards, adapting to industry trends, and fostering student engagement. Universities that prioritize a supportive and flexible learning environment are more likely to see sustainable enrollment growth.

The takeaway: Striking the right balance

As the discussion neared its conclusion, the key takeaway was clear: Institutions that evolve with changing student needs while staying true to their core values will be the ones that thrive. A strategic blend of technology, personalization, and adaptability will drive enrollment success in the coming years.

Looking ahead

This #illuminateByMeritto session reinforced the importance of agility, student-first thinking, and data-driven decision-making in enrollment management. As institutions continue to navigate these changes, Meritto remains committed to providing solutions that empower universities to enroll more, enroll faster, and enroll better.

Missed the session? Catch it up here and stay tuned for more #illuminateByMeritto webinars, where we bring industry leaders together to share actionable insights. If you’re looking to redefine your enrollment strategy, connect with us today!