5 Ways to Engage with Domestic Students

By Tetiana Horbachova

Radius Global

As an educational institution, successfully engaging with domestic students is essential for building a vibrant and thriving academic community. While traditional methods like open houses and campus tours remain effective, innovative strategies can foster deeper connections and ensure student success. Here are five dynamic approaches to engage domestic students that go beyond the usual tactics: 

1. Community-Driven Curriculum Development 

Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to co-create courses that address specific needs and opportunities within your region. This approach not only makes learning more relevant but also strengthens the bond between the institution and the community. By aligning the curriculum with local demands, students gain valuable real-world experience and build networks that can lead to future career opportunities. 

2. Local Internship Programs 

Instead of offering traditional internships, partner with local startups to create "innovation internships." In these roles, students tackle real challenges faced by startups, applying their academic knowledge in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment. This hands-on experience not only enriches their education but also increases the likelihood of securing job offers after graduation. Additionally, such internships can be tailored to align with academic credit, enhancing the value of the experience. 

3. Student-Led Community Projects 

Encourage students to identify and lead projects that benefit the local community. These projects could range from sustainability initiatives to preserving local history or developing tech-driven social impact programs. Not only do these activities enhance student learning, but they also position the institution as a proactive and integral part of the community. By empowering students to lead, they gain leadership skills and a sense of ownership in their work. 

4. Hyper-Local Scholarship Programs 

Develop scholarships that specifically target students from underrepresented or underserved areas within the local community. Collaborate with local businesses or civic organizations to fund these scholarships, ensuring that financial aid is accessible and that talented students are encouraged to stay within the local region. This strategy not only supports diversity but also strengthens the institution's ties to the local community by investing directly in its future leaders. 

5. Cultural and Social Integration Workshops 

Offer workshops designed to help students from diverse backgrounds integrate into the local culture. These sessions could include language classes, lessons on local history and cultural norms, and even social etiquette training. By fostering a more inclusive environment, these workshops help students feel at home more quickly, which can lead to higher retention rates and a more cohesive student body. 

 By implementing these innovative strategies, educational institutions can enhance student engagement, improve retention, and solidify their role as vital members of the local community. 

References: 

Astin, A. W. (1999). ¨Student involvement: A developmental theory for higher education. Journal of College Student Development, 40(5), 518-529. 

Kuh, G. D. (2009). ¨The national survey of student engagement: Conceptual and empirical foundations¨. New Directions for Institutional Research, 2009(141), 5-20. 

Pascarella, E. T., & Terenzini, P. T. (2005). ¨How college affects students: A third decade of research¨ (Vol. 2). Jossey-Bass. 

Tinto, V. (2012). ¨Completing college: Rethinking institutional action¨. University of Chicago Press. 

Zimmerman, B. J. (2002). ¨Becoming a self-regulated learner: An overview. Theory into Practice¨, 41(2), 64-70.