About the Episode
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About the Episode:
In this episode of In Your Element, Daniella and Brendan from Element 451 sit down with Daniela Botello-Hernandez of Paul Quinn College to dive into the transformative power of a CRM in higher education admissions. They discuss how Paul Quinn’s decision to bring their application process in-house revolutionized their admissions workflow, improved completion rates, and created more personalized application processes. This dynamic conversation is packed with actionable tips for any institution looking to streamline its admissions process.
Key Takeaways
- Streamlining Admissions with Element 451: Paul Quinn moved from a third-party vendor to managing all applications within Element 451, doubling the percentage of completed applications.
- Customizable Applications for Diverse Student Groups: By creating specific applications for international students, transfers, and corporate partnerships, Paul Quinn tailored their processes to meet the unique needs of each demographic.
- Automation and Efficiency in Application Review: Features like core GPA calculations and task assignments allow for more intentional applicant evaluation and streamlined staff workflows.
- Engaging Student Ambassadors: Integrating students in the admissions process through the task module encourages peer engagement and better application tracking.
- The Power of Innovation and Buy-In: With no previous CRM experience, Paul Quinn’s admissions team embraced change, achieving significant improvements through openness to new processes and teamwork.
Episode Summary
Why Paul Quinn Brought Applications In-House
Paul Quinn College faced challenges with limited resources and third-party vendor constraints, managing only two application types. Transitioning to Element 451 allowed them to take full control, expand to four application types (with more in the pipeline), and save significant costs. The move also empowered them to customize their applications for different groups, including first-time freshmen, transfers, international students, and Guild corporate partners.
Daniela Botello-Hernandez highlighted how this shift enabled better organization and alignment with the institution's goals. For instance, international applications could now include specific documentation needs, streamlining processes for both applicants and administrators.
The Role of Automation in Simplifying Workflows
Element 451’s automation features have been game-changing for Paul Quinn. Automated GPA calculations, letter of recommendation ratings, and resume evaluations have allowed for a more holistic review process. This is especially impactful at Paul Quinn, where many students come from underserved communities. By looking beyond traditional GPA metrics, the admissions team considers the broader story of each applicant, emphasizing work ethic, character, and lived experiences.
This intentional approach aligns with Paul Quinn's mission to meet students where they are and evaluate them as whole individuals. The workflows have not only improved the quality of admissions decisions but also reduced the administrative burden on staff.
Empowering Student Ambassadors in the Admissions Process
A unique aspect of Paul Quinn’s success has been the involvement of student ambassadors. Using Element 451’s task module, these students are tasked with reaching out to prospective applicants, helping them complete applications, and building relationships. This peer-to-peer connection has been a vital part of moving applicants through the admissions funnel.
By centralizing tasks in Element, ambassadors manage documents, upload files, and follow up with applicants seamlessly. This approach has doubled the percentage of completed applications and enhanced the overall student experience.
Transitioning to a New CRM and SIS
Paul Quinn’s journey with Element 451 also coincided with a broader transition to a new Student Information System (SIS). This "spring cleaning" process gave the team the opportunity to separate what belonged in the CRM versus the SIS, ensuring a cleaner, more efficient workflow. While the dual transitions posed challenges, the team embraced the changes, driven by their goal to leave systems better than they found them.
Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: In Your Element is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
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