Breakout Session 4
Thursday
11:00 - 11:50 am
"She Doesn't Even Go Here": How to Sell a Student Experience You Didn't Have
HWCC 304
Presenters: Mckenzie Sharp
"Raise your hand if you have ever been personally victimized by"... a high schooler assuming you attended - or worse, currently attend - the institution you recruit for. This session is designed to help new (or newer) admissions professionals feel confident recruiting students to an institution they did not attend. While being an alum is often considered a plus, it is definitely not a requirement. We will walk through tips and tricks to help you utilize your professional position, campus location, and personal college background to bridge that non-alum knowledge gap. Not attending your institution is not a bad thing; in fact, you often bring a much-needed outsider perspective. In the world of college recruitment, "the limit does not exist" - especially when it comes to the unique value that non-alumni bring to the table!
Mastering the College Fair - Turning Small Talk into Big Wins
HWCC 312
Presenters: Ryan Boyd
College fairs offer a unique opportunity to connect with prospective students, but making those moments count takes strategy. In this session, participants will learn how to confidently navigate high-traffic environments, initiate meaningful conversations, and build authentic relationships in a short window of time. This session will focus on conversation techniques, managing your time and energy, and developing an effective follow-up plan that keeps students engaged well after the fair ends.
Making Your Mark at Your Alma Mater
RW Corns 203
Presenters: Seth Jones
You loved your undergrad experience - maybe you were a campus tour guide, a student leader, or even the student who just showed up! And now… you’re back, but this time as a professional. Working at your alma mater can be an incredible adventure filled of pride, purpose, and yes, maybe a few growing pains. Join for a dynamic session where we’ll explore how to thrive in this unique space that’s both nostalgic and brand new. Discover how to navigate the seemingly daunting transition from student to staff, build boundaries, grow professionally, and still enjoy the community you once called home. Let’s turn that school spirit into career success!
Strong Ground, Strong Start: Leadership Foundations for New Admissions Professionals
RW Corns 209
Presenters: Brenda Averesch
The transition into college admissions is both exciting and demanding. New professionals are often balancing territory management, relationship-building, institutional goals, and personal professional growth—all while learning how to lead from where they are. This session explores how the leadership principles outlined in Strong Ground by Brené Brown can provide a framework for developing confidence, resilience, authenticity, and courage in the admissions profession. Through guided discussion, reflective exercises, and practical application, participants will connect Brown’s concepts of grounded leadership to the daily realities of admissions work. From navigating difficult conversations with students and families to managing professional setbacks and building trust within teams, attendees will leave with actionable strategies to strengthen their leadership capacity early in their careers.