Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Jill (00:00):
Welcome to the Deep Dive.
Today, we're going to be, uh,taking a deep dive into the
future of higher educationmarketing.
Right.
We've got articles, blog posts,we've even got some student
surveys.
Wow.
Really trying to get a handle onhow universities can thrive, not
just survive.
Right.
In this crazy digital age.
Jack (00:19):
Yeah, it's a, it's a
fascinating landscape, really
is.
It is.
A lot of opportunities andchallenges out there.
Jill (00:24):
It is, and one of the
biggest challenges I saw in all
this research is this idea of astudent engagement crisis.
We've got these bustlingcampuses, tons of activities,
but underneath it all, a lot ofstudents are struggling with
loneliness.
They're feeling lost.
Jack (00:40):
Yeah, it's almost
counterintuitive, isn't it?
Right.
You think, you know, you've gotthis bustling campus life, but
the reality is a lot of studentsare struggling.
Jill (00:47):
They are and and the data
shows it.
Jack (00:50):
Yeah.
Jill (00:50):
Um, and it's not really
that surprising when you think
about all the pressures thatstudents are facing these days,
you know, just the academicdemands are so high.
Jack (00:58):
Absolutely.
And you've got the digitaldistractions.
Yes.
You know, the constantbombardment of information and
social media.
Yeah.
It's a lot to handle.
Jill (01:06):
It's a lot, and then on
top of that, You've got, you
know, the pressure of findingtheir place in the world.
Right.
Figuring out, like, who am I?
Exactly.
What do I want to do with mylife?
Jack (01:18):
Yeah.
Jill (01:18):
All of that adds up to
make it harder than ever to
really connect.
Jack (01:22):
It does.
Jill (01:23):
And feel that sense of
belonging.
Yeah,
Jack (01:26):
and that lack of
connection.
Um, you know, it's not justabout feeling sad or lonely, it
has real consequences.
Jill (01:34):
It does.
Jack (01:35):
Lower engagement leads to
lower student satisfaction,
lower retention rates, and itcan even impact academic
performance.
Jill (01:42):
It really can.
So, so what are universitiesdoing about this?
Jack (01:46):
Well, one of the most
promising solutions we're seeing
is this rise of studentengagement software.
Jill (01:51):
Okay.
Jack (01:52):
And these platforms, what
they're doing is they're using
technology to create morepersonalized and engaging
experiences for students.
Jill (01:59):
So it's like a, like a
virtual guide throughout their
college journey.
Jack (02:03):
That's a great way to put
it.
Yeah, it's like having acompanion along the way.
Jill (02:06):
I like that.
So give me an example, like whatdoes that look like in practice?
Jack (02:09):
Okay, so imagine A
software platform that creates
like a virtual road map for eachstudent.
Jill (02:18):
Okay.
Jack (02:19):
Right.
So from the moment they enroll,they have a clear path laid out.
Got
Jill (02:23):
it.
Jack (02:23):
With milestones,
achievements, support systems
built right in.
Jill (02:26):
So it's breaking down this
often really overwhelming
college experience intomanageable steps, giving them a
sense of direction.
Jack (02:34):
Right.
Because a lot of times studentsfeel lost.
Jill (02:37):
Yeah.
Jack (02:37):
Right.
They don't know where to go.
Yeah.
Who to talk to.
Jill (02:39):
Absolutely.
Jack (02:40):
Um, this kind of software
can really help with that.
Jill (02:42):
That's cool.
I like that.
So that's, that's studentengagement, but how do you even
get students in the door in thefirst place?
I mean, that's where marketingcomes in.
Jack (02:50):
Absolutely.
Yeah.
And one of the key takeawaysfrom, from all this research is
that SEO, SEO, search engineoptimization, it's more
important than ever for highereducation.
Jill (03:00):
Okay.
Jack (03:01):
But it's not just about
using generic keywords anymore.
Universities really need to getlaser focused on understanding
exactly What their targetstudents are searching for
online.
Jill (03:13):
So instead of just
targeting college degree, you
need to be thinking aboutspecific programs, even
geographic locations.
Jack (03:22):
Absolutely.
Jill (03:23):
So like, best online
master's program for data
science in California.
Jack (03:28):
Yeah.
Yeah, exactly.
I
Jill (03:30):
got it.
Jack (03:30):
Those are what we call
long tail keywords.
Jill (03:32):
Long tail keywords.
Jack (03:33):
And they're incredibly
powerful for attracting the
right kind of students to yourprograms.
Jill (03:37):
Makes sense.
It's speaking their language.
Jack (03:40):
It is.
Jill (03:40):
Meeting them where they're
already searching.
Jack (03:42):
Exactly.
Jill (03:43):
And, you know, one of our
sources.
Search influence.
They actually offer an SEOroadmap.
Oh, wow.
Specifically for universities.
That's cool.
And they talk about theimportance of regular content
updates.
Right.
Social media integration forlong term success.
Jack (03:58):
That's like tending a
garden.
You can't just plant the seedsand walk away.
Jill (04:01):
Exactly.
You got to
Jack (04:03):
nurture it, you know.
Jill (04:04):
Yeah.
Jack (04:05):
Provide constant care and
attention.
Jill (04:07):
It's a good analogy.
I like that.
Jack (04:08):
It highlights a key shift
in higher ed marketing.
It's not just about building awebsite.
Right.
And waiting for students to cometo you.
You got to be out there.
Yeah.
Creating valuable content,engaging on social media.
Be
Jill (04:20):
proactive.
Jack (04:20):
Be proactive, exactly.
Jill (04:22):
But it's not just
academics that are influencing
student choices these days.
Politics are playing a biggerrole than ever before.
Jack (04:28):
Yeah, absolutely.
Students are looking beyond justthe academics.
Jill (04:32):
Okay.
Jack (04:32):
They're considering the
political climate of a campus.
Jill (04:36):
Interesting.
Jack (04:36):
You know, factors like
political ideology, affirmative
action policies, even theoverall vibe and culture of the
place.
Jill (04:43):
That makes sense.
I mean, these things can be dealbreakers for some students.
Jack (04:47):
They can be.
It's a complex issue.
Jill (04:49):
It is.
Jack (04:50):
With no easy answers.
Jill (04:51):
Yeah.
Jack (04:52):
I mean, some people think
colleges should be actively
shaping the campus climate.
Jill (04:57):
Okay.
Jack (04:57):
To promote certain values,
you know?
Jill (04:59):
Yeah.
Jack (05:00):
Others argue for
neutrality, fostering
intellectual diversity.
Jill (05:03):
That's a tough one.
So, where do you land on this?
Jack (05:06):
Well, I think it's less
about taking sides and more
about being transparent.
Okay.
Students deserve to know whatthey're getting into.
Jill (05:13):
Right.
Jack (05:13):
Institutions need to be
upfront about their values and
the kind of environment they'refostering.
Jill (05:19):
So transparency is key.
Jack (05:21):
Absolutely.
Jill (05:22):
All right.
So let's shift gears a littlebit and talk about some of these
marketing trends that areshaping the future of higher ed.
Okay.
One that kept coming up in theresearch was this idea of.
A personalization renaissance,where it's all about tailoring
the student experience.
Jack (05:39):
Yeah, we're seeing a lot
of innovative applications of
data analytics.
Okay.
You know, think about it.
Universities have a wealth ofinformation about their
students.
They do.
Their academic interests, theircareer aspirations.
Yep.
Even their preferred learningstyles.
Wow.
By leveraging this data, theycan create hyper personalized
messages and content.
Jill (05:59):
So it's not just about
sending out generic emails or
brochures anymore?
Jack (06:03):
Nope.
It's about tailoring the messageto each individual student.
Jill (06:07):
I like that.
And AI is playing a huge role inthis, isn't it?
Jack (06:10):
Huge role.
Absolutely.
Then
Jill (06:11):
you can think about AI
powered chatbots.
Jack (06:13):
Right.
Jill (06:14):
That can instantly answer
student questions.
Jack (06:16):
Predictive analytics to
anticipate enrollment trends.
Yeah.
You can even have personalizedlearning paths that adapt to
each student's needs.
Jill (06:23):
That's amazing.
It's like having a customdesigned education.
Jack (06:27):
It's getting there.
It really is.
Jill (06:28):
It is.
But, in a world of AI andalgorithms, what happens to the
human touch?
I mean, do students even wantthat anymore?
Jack (06:36):
That's a great question.
And it leads us to another keytrend.
Jill (06:38):
Okay.
Jack (06:39):
Which is this emphasis on
authenticity and transparency.
Jill (06:44):
Interesting.
You
Jack (06:44):
know, in this digital age,
students are bombarded with
marketing messages.
Right.
They can spot a fake a mileaway.
Jill (06:51):
Yeah.
Jack (06:52):
What they crave are real
life insights.
Not glossy brochures.
Jill (06:56):
So what does that look
like in practice?
Jack (06:58):
So think about showcasing
real student stories.
Authentic campus experiences.
Genuine student outcomes.
Jill (07:06):
I see.
Jack (07:06):
Let prospective students
hear from current students and
alumni.
Let them see what life is reallylike on campus.
Jill (07:12):
Got it.
Jack (07:13):
And understand the real
world impact of a degree from
your institution.
Jill (07:17):
It's about showing, not
just telling.
Jack (07:20):
Exactly.
Jill (07:21):
I like it.
All right.
And then one more trend thatreally stood out to me was this
whole idea of immersive virtualexperiences.
Oh,
Jack (07:28):
yeah.
VR and AR are going mainstreamin higher ed.
Jill (07:31):
I've been hearing about
this.
So like virtual campus tours.
Jack (07:34):
Exactly.
Jill (07:35):
Yeah.
Jack (07:36):
Imagine experiencing a
college campus from anywhere in
the world.
Jill (07:41):
Wow.
Jack (07:41):
You can walk through the
quad peek inside classrooms
Jill (07:44):
and That's incredible.
Even
Jack (07:45):
attend a virtual lecture.
Jill (07:48):
That's wild.
It feels like we're on the vergeof a whole new era.
Jack (07:51):
It really does.
Of
Jill (07:52):
higher ed marketing.
Oh.
But before we get too carriedaway with all the shiny tech,
Jack (07:56):
right.
Jill (07:56):
We gotta talk about money.
Jack (07:57):
Yeah.
I
Jill (07:58):
mean, students are
increasingly worried about the
cost of college.
Jack (08:00):
Absolutely.
Jill (08:01):
And frankly, whether it's
even worth it.
Jack (08:03):
Yeah.
One of our sources had thisstartling statistic.
93 percent of prospectivestudents
Jill (08:08):
93 percent
Jack (08:09):
are stressed about college
costs.
Jill (08:11):
Wow.
Jack (08:12):
And many of them are even
questioning
Jill (08:14):
Yeah.
Jack (08:14):
whether a college degree
is worth the time, money, and
effort.
Jill (08:18):
So it's not just about the
sticker price anymore.
Nope.
It's about the perceived value.
Jack (08:22):
Exactly.
Students are asking toughquestions.
Jill (08:25):
Yeah.
Jack (08:25):
Will this degree lead to a
good job?
Right.
Will I be able to pay off mystudent loans?
Makes
Jill (08:31):
sense.
Is
Jack (08:31):
this the right investment
for my future?
Jill (08:34):
Yeah, so how should
colleges respond to that?
Jack (08:37):
Transparency is key.
Jill (08:38):
Okay.
Jack (08:39):
They need to be upfront
and clear about the total cost
of attendance.
Jill (08:44):
Got it.
Jack (08:45):
Demystify the financial
aid process.
Jill (08:47):
Yep.
Jack (08:48):
Give students the tools to
make informed decisions.
Jill (08:50):
So no more hiding the real
costs or burying students in
paperwork.
Jack (08:54):
Exactly.
Jill (08:55):
And it's not just about
financial aid, right?
Right.
It's also about demonstratingthat return on investment.
Jack (09:00):
Yes, absolutely.
Show them the data.
Jill (09:02):
Yeah.
Jack (09:02):
Here's where our graduates
are working.
Jill (09:04):
Yep.
Jack (09:04):
Here are their salaries
give
Jill (09:06):
them the concrete examples
Jack (09:07):
given the real world
outcomes
Jill (09:09):
It's about painting a
clear picture.
It
Jack (09:11):
is
Jill (09:12):
of the potential outcomes
Not just saying you'll get a
good job,
Jack (09:16):
right
Jill (09:16):
but actually showing them
Jack (09:18):
showing them what's
possible Yeah, what it looks
like in reality.
Jill (09:21):
I like it Well, we've
covered a lot of ground.
Jack (09:23):
We have.
In this
Jill (09:24):
deep dive into the world
of higher ed marketing.
Jack (09:26):
Yeah, it's fascinating
stuff.
We've
Jill (09:28):
explored the challenges.
Jack (09:29):
Opportunities.
And
Jill (09:30):
the trends.
Jack (09:31):
That are shaping the
future of education.
Jill (09:33):
Absolutely, yeah.
It feels like we're witnessing aseismic shift, you know.
Jack (09:38):
Yeah, it's exciting, but
it's also a bit daunting, right?
I mean, how did theseInstitutions, many of which are
steeped in tradition.
Right.
How do they adapt to such arapidly changing landscape?
Jill (09:50):
It's a, it's a real
challenge, but one thing that
came through loud and clear inthese sources
Jack (09:54):
Okay.
Jill (09:55):
Is that there's a, a real
hunger for innovation in higher
ed.
Jack (09:59):
Interesting.
Jill (10:00):
Universities are starting
to recognize that embracing
technology, data drivenstrategies Yeah.
And this new way ofcommunicating with students,
it's it's not just an optionanymore, it's essential for
survival.
So it's not about, you know,jumping on the latest trends
just for the sake of it.
It's about really using thesetools to enhance the student
(10:22):
experience.
Jack (10:23):
Exactly.
Yeah, the goal is not just toattract more students, but to
attract the right students andthen to give them the support
they need.
To thrive.
Jill (10:32):
Absolutely.
It's
Jack (10:33):
about setting them up for
success.
Yeah.
Both during their college yearsand in their future careers.
Jill (10:38):
That makes a lot of sense.
And, and, you know, we talkedabout a lot of these exciting
new tools, you know.
Jack (10:43):
Yeah.
Jill (10:43):
Personalized learning, AI
chatbots, even virtual reality
campus tours.
Jack (10:48):
Yeah, it's, it's amazing
stuff.
Jill (10:50):
It is amazing.
But are there any downsides toall this tech?
I mean.
Jack (10:55):
That's a great question,
and I think it's crucial to
approach these new technologieswith a critical eye.
For example, you know, whilepersonalization can be
incredibly effective, there arevalid concerns about student
privacy and data security.
Jill (11:12):
Yeah, that makes sense.
Jack (11:13):
Universities need to be
incredibly transparent about how
they're collecting and usingstudent data.
Jill (11:17):
Right.
Jack (11:18):
Ensuring that it's done
efficiently.
Ethically and responsibly.
Jill (11:20):
So it's, it's like walking
a tightrope almost.
Jack (11:23):
It is.
Jill (11:24):
Between creating a
personalized experience, but
also respecting student privacy.
Exactly.
It's a tough balance.
Jack (11:30):
It is.
And, you know, even when itcomes to AI.
Jill (11:33):
Yeah.
Jack (11:33):
We have to be careful
about assuming that it can fully
replace the human element.
Right.
While chatbots are great forquick answers.
Sure.
Students still crave thatnuanced guidance and mentorship
Jill (11:46):
that can
Jack (11:47):
really only come from real
people.
Jill (11:49):
It's that human
connection, isn't it?
Jack (11:51):
It is, yeah.
At the end of the day, we'redealing with real people with
real hopes and dreams.
Jill (11:56):
That's right.
We can't forget that.
Jack (11:58):
And that's where the
authenticity and transparency we
talked about earlier becomes socrucial.
You know, students need to seethe real people behind the
institution, hear genuinestories from their peers, and
feel confident that they'regetting an honest picture of
what it's like to be part ofthat community.
Jill (12:16):
It's about building trust.
Jack (12:18):
It is.
Jill (12:19):
Which can be hard to do in
a digital world.
Jack (12:21):
Absolutely.
And one thing we haven't reallytouched on much is, is the role
of faculty in all this?
Jill (12:27):
Yeah, that's a good point.
I mean, with all these newtechnologies, these new teaching
methods, it seems like the roleof the educator is evolving as
well.
Jack (12:35):
It is.
Faculty need to be comfortableusing online platforms, engaging
with students in virtualenvironments,
Jill (12:43):
even
Jack (12:43):
incorporating data
analytics into their teaching.
Jill (12:45):
It's a whole new way of
thinking about teaching and
learning, isn't it?
Jack (12:49):
It is.
It's, it's a new pedagogy.
Jill (12:51):
Yeah, and it's, it's not
just about the technical skills
either.
Jack (12:55):
Right.
Jill (12:55):
It's about creating a
sense of community and
connection.
Jack (12:58):
Yeah.
Jill (12:58):
Even in these new learning
environments.
Jack (13:00):
Exactly.
Faculty play a vital role.
In fostering a welcoming andinclusive atmosphere.
Jill (13:06):
Absolutely.
Whether
Jack (13:06):
it's a physical classroom
or a virtual one, right.
Building relationships andmaking students feel supported
is key.
Jill (13:13):
That's so important, but
let's be honest, not every
professor is gonna be thrilledabout these changes.
Jack (13:19):
Oh, absolutely not.
Jill (13:20):
I mean, some are.
Probably pretty attached totraditional teaching methods.
Jack (13:24):
Right.
Change can be difficult.
Yeah.
And there will likely be someresistance.
Sure.
That's why it's, it's so vitalfor universities to provide
support and training.
Jill (13:33):
Yeah.
Jack (13:33):
To help faculty adapt.
Jill (13:35):
Okay.
And
Jack (13:36):
embrace these new
technologies.
Jill (13:37):
Meet them where they are.
Jack (13:38):
Meet them where they are,
exactly.
Give them
Jill (13:40):
the resources.
Jack (13:40):
Give them the resources to
succeed.
Jill (13:42):
That's key.
And it's, it's not just aboutfaculty either, right?
It seems like everyone acrossthe institution needs to be on
board for this to really work.
Jack (13:52):
Absolutely.
From admissions and financialaid.
Yeah.
Student support services, alumnirelations.
Jill (13:58):
Right.
Jack (13:59):
Every department plays a
role in shaping the student
experience.
Jill (14:03):
It's true.
Jack (14:03):
A cohesive and integrated
approach across the entire
university.
Jill (14:08):
I like that.
Jack (14:08):
Is essential.
Jill (14:09):
Like a, like a well oiled
machine.
Yes.
Where every part is workingtogether smoothly.
Jack (14:13):
Precisely.
Yeah.
And that requires clearcommunication, collaboration,
and a shared commitment.
Jill (14:19):
Okay.
Jack (14:20):
To student success across
all levels.
Jill (14:23):
I like that.
You know, one of our sourcesmentioned scholarship promotion
as a marketing tool and it gotme thinking, are scholarships
just a way to lure students in?
Jack (14:33):
Right.
Jill (14:33):
Or can they be something
more?
Jack (14:36):
That's a, that's an
interesting question.
Jill (14:38):
Yeah.
Jack (14:39):
While scholarships can
certainly attract students.
They can also be a powerful toolfor promoting access and
Jill (14:46):
affordability.
Jack (14:48):
Universities can use
scholarships strategically to
target specific demographics.
Jill (14:52):
Got it.
Jack (14:53):
Like first generation
students or those from
underrepresented backgrounds.
Jill (14:57):
Okay.
It
Jack (14:57):
helps level the playing
field.
Yeah.
And create a more diverse andinclusive student body.
Jill (15:02):
So it's, it's not just
about giving money away.
Right.
It's about using scholarshipsintentionally to achieve
specific goals.
Jack (15:09):
Exactly.
And think about the impact onthe students themselves.
Jill (15:12):
Yeah.
Jack (15:13):
Receiving a scholarship,
it's not just about the
financial assistance.
Jill (15:16):
Right.
It's a
Jack (15:16):
vote of confidence.
Jill (15:17):
It is.
It's
Jack (15:18):
a recognition of their
potential.
Jill (15:20):
That's a good point.
Jack (15:21):
And it can be a huge boost
to their, their confidence and
motivation.
Jill (15:25):
Absolutely.
Speaking of finances, we talkedabout the concerns that students
have about the cost of college.
Jack (15:31):
Yeah.
Jill (15:31):
But what about the
institutions themselves?
I mean, are, are universitiesfinancially sustainable in the
long run?
Jack (15:38):
That's a, that's a really
complex question that's, that's
being debated across highereducation.
Jill (15:43):
Okay.
Jack (15:43):
You know, the, the
traditional model that's heavily
reliant on tuition revenue.
Jill (15:48):
Right.
Jack (15:48):
It's becoming increasingly
unsustainable.
Jill (15:50):
Yeah, I can see that.
Jack (15:52):
Enrollment numbers
fluctuate.
Jill (15:53):
Sure.
Jack (15:53):
Students are more price
conscious.
Right.
And costs keep rising.
Jill (15:57):
Yeah.
Jack (15:57):
It's a, it's a challenging
financial landscape.
Jill (16:00):
So what are universities
doing to adapt?
Jack (16:02):
Well, they're exploring
alternative revenue stream.
Jill (16:04):
Okay.
Jack (16:05):
Things like online
programs.
Jill (16:07):
Okay.
Jack (16:07):
Partnerships with
businesses.
Increased fundraising efforts.
Jill (16:10):
Makes sense.
Jack (16:11):
It's about diversifying
their income.
Jill (16:13):
Right.
Jack (16:13):
And finding creative ways
to fund their mission.
Jill (16:16):
And probably being more
mindful of expenses as well.
Jack (16:20):
Absolutely.
Right.
Doing more with less.
Yeah.
Is the new reality for manyinstitutions.
Jill (16:25):
It's tough, but it's
Jack (16:26):
tough, but it's it's
essential for their long term
sustainability.
Jill (16:31):
It's about making sure
that these institutions are
around for generations to come.
Yes.
So they can continue to educateand inspire future leaders.
Jack (16:38):
You're absolutely right.
Yeah.
And it's not just about thebottom line, you know.
Right.
It's about ensuring that highereducation remains.
Accessible and affordable forall students, regardless of
their background or theirfinancial means.
Jill (16:52):
It's about preserving that
transformative power of
education.
Exactly.
Well said.
On that inspiring note, we'vecovered a lot of ground in the
Steep Dive.
Jack (17:02):
We have.
Jill (17:02):
We talked about the
challenges facing higher ed.
Jack (17:05):
The innovative solutions
emerging.
Jill (17:06):
Yep, and the complex
financial realities.
The
Jack (17:09):
financial realities, yeah.
Jill (17:10):
But there's one piece of
the puzzle that we haven't fully
explored yet.
Jack (17:14):
And what's that?
Jill (17:15):
We've focused a lot on
what institutions can do to
adapt and thrive.
Jack (17:20):
Yeah.
Jill (17:21):
But what about the
students themselves?
Jack (17:23):
Hmm, good point.
Jill (17:24):
What role do they play in
shaping the future of higher
education?
Jack (17:28):
That's a great question.
We've talked about their needs.
Jill (17:31):
Right.
Jack (17:32):
Their concerns, their
expectations.
Yeah.
What about their agency?
Jill (17:36):
Yeah.
Their
Jack (17:37):
voice?
Jill (17:37):
Right.
Jack (17:38):
Do they have a say in all
of this?
Jill (17:40):
I like that.
And I think they absolutely do.
Jack (17:42):
They do.
Students are not passiverecipients of education.
Right.
They're active participants.
Yeah.
Who can shape their own learningexperiences.
I
Jill (17:50):
agree.
Jack (17:50):
And influence the
direction of higher ed as a
whole.
Jill (17:53):
It's about empowering
students to be Advocates.
Yes.
For their own education.
Jack (17:58):
Encourage them to speak
up.
Jill (17:59):
Yeah.
Jack (18:00):
Share their perspectives
and demand more from their
institutions.
Jill (18:04):
I love it.
So it's not a one way street.
Jack (18:06):
It's not.
Jill (18:07):
It's about building a
partnership.
Jack (18:09):
A partnership.
Yeah.
Jill (18:10):
Where both sides are
listening.
Jack (18:12):
Right.
Jill (18:12):
And learning from each
other.
Jack (18:14):
That's where things get
really interesting.
When students have a voice.
Jill (18:17):
Yeah.
Jack (18:18):
And are empowered to co
create their educational
experiences.
Jill (18:21):
Yeah.
Jack (18:21):
We see a shift from a From
a transactional model of
education.
Jill (18:26):
Okay.
To
Jack (18:26):
a truly transformative
one.
Jill (18:28):
So it's, it's moving
beyond just delivering
information.
Jack (18:31):
It is.
And
Jill (18:32):
towards igniting a passion
for learning.
Jack (18:34):
Yeah.
Jill (18:35):
A sense of purpose.
Jack (18:36):
Absolutely.
Jill (18:37):
A desire to make a
difference in the world.
Jack (18:39):
You put it perfectly.
That's what makes me optimistic.
Jill (18:42):
Yeah.
Jack (18:43):
About the future of higher
ed.
Yeah, it's about recognizingimmense potential.
Jill (18:49):
Yeah,
Jack (18:50):
within each student and
empowering them to unlock it.
Jill (18:53):
It's a beautiful vision.
It
Jack (18:55):
is.
Jill (18:55):
But how do we get there?
What are the concrete steps thatuniversities can take?
Jack (19:00):
Yeah,
Jill (19:00):
to make this vision a
reality.
Jack (19:02):
It starts with listening.
Jill (19:03):
Okay.
Jack (19:04):
Universities need to
actively seek out student
perspectives.
Jill (19:08):
Right.
Jack (19:08):
Not just through surveys.
Jill (19:10):
Right.
Jack (19:10):
But through genuine
dialogue.
Jill (19:12):
Okay.
Jack (19:12):
Open forums.
Jill (19:13):
Got it.
Jack (19:14):
They need to involve
students in decision making
processes.
Jill (19:17):
Interesting.
Jack (19:18):
From curriculum design.
to campus planning.
Jill (19:20):
Wow, that's big.
Jack (19:21):
And they need to create a
culture where student feedback
is not just welcomed.
Jill (19:24):
Yeah.
But
Jack (19:25):
actively sought out.
Jill (19:26):
Okay.
Jack (19:27):
So
Jill (19:27):
it's about kind of
shifting the power dynamic.
Jack (19:30):
It is, yeah.
Jill (19:31):
Giving students a seat at
the table.
Give them a seat at the table.
And recognizing them as partnersin shaping the future of their
education.
Jack (19:38):
Partners, exactly.
It's a fundamental shift inmindset.
Jill (19:41):
Yeah.
Jack (19:42):
From seeing students as
consumers of education.
Jill (19:45):
Right.
Jack (19:45):
To seeing them as co
creators of their learning
experiences.
It's
Jill (19:49):
a powerful idea.
Jack (19:50):
And when you make that
shift.
Amazing things can happen.
Jill (19:54):
This, this reminds me of
something we talked about
earlier, this idea ofauthenticity and transparency.
Yes.
It seems like that applies notjust to marketing, but to the
entire student experience.
Jack (20:04):
You're absolutely right.
Authenticity and transparencyneed to be woven into the fabric
of the institution.
Jill (20:10):
From
Jack (20:10):
how they communicate with
students to how they make
decisions.
Jill (20:13):
Yeah.
Jack (20:14):
Students can smell
hypocrisy a mile away.
Jill (20:16):
They can.
Jack (20:17):
They need to see that the
university is walking the walk.
Jill (20:20):
Right.
Jack (20:21):
Not just talking the talk.
Jill (20:22):
Actions speak louder than
words.
Jack (20:24):
Exactly.
Yeah.
It's about building a genuineconnection.
Yeah.
Based on trust and mutualrespect.
Jill (20:30):
I like that.
Jack (20:30):
It's about creating an
environment where students feel
seen, heard, and valued.
Jill (20:36):
And when you create that
kind of environment, students
are more likely to thrive.
Jack (20:41):
They are.
Not
Jill (20:41):
just academically, but
personally and professionally.
Jack (20:44):
Absolutely.
They're more
Jill (20:45):
likely to graduate with a
sense of purpose, a passion.
for making a difference in theworld.
Jack (20:50):
And ultimately, isn't that
what education's all about?
Jill (20:52):
It is equipping students
Jack (20:55):
Equipping them.
Jill (20:55):
with the knowledge, the
skills, and the mindset The
Jack (20:58):
mindset.
Jill (20:59):
to go out and make a
positive impact.
Jack (21:01):
Precisely.
And when we view educationthrough that lens,
Jill (21:04):
Yeah.
Jack (21:05):
it's not just about
getting a degree.
Jill (21:08):
Yeah.
Jack (21:08):
It's about empowering
individuals to reach their full
potential.
Jill (21:12):
Yeah.
Jack (21:12):
And to contribute to
building a better future for all
of us.
Jill (21:15):
I love that.
That's a powerful message.
So as we wrap up this deep dive,what are your, your final
thoughts?
What's the one key takeaway youwant our listeners to remember?
Jack (21:26):
If I had to boil it down
to one thing, it would be this,
the future of higher ed hingeson embracing change,
Jill (21:35):
embracing change,
Jack (21:36):
embracing change, letting
go of outdated models.
Yeah.
Embracing innovation.
Jill (21:41):
Okay.
Jack (21:41):
And above all, putting
students at the heart of
everything they do.
Jill (21:45):
Students at the heart.
Jack (21:46):
Students at the heart.
That's, that's the key.
I
Jill (21:48):
like it.
It's about recognizing thatwe're not just preparing
students for the world as it is,but for a world that's
constantly evolving.
Evolving in
Jack (21:57):
flux, yeah.
Exactly.
Right.
Jill (21:58):
And that requires a
different kind of education.
It does.
One that fosters adaptability.
Jack (22:03):
Adaptability, yes.
Jill (22:04):
Creativity.
Jack (22:05):
And a lifelong love of
learning.
Jill (22:06):
Lifelong learning, that's
the key.
Jack (22:08):
Wow, we really have
covered a lot of ground in this,
this deep dive.
Jill (22:12):
Super
Jack (22:12):
you.
You know, from the studentengagement crisis.
To, uh,
Jill (22:16):
the
Jack (22:16):
rise of AI to changing
financial landscape of, of
higher ed.
Jill (22:21):
It's been quite a journey.
Jack (22:22):
It has.
Jill (22:23):
So, so as we, as we wrap
up here, where do we go from
here?
What does all this mean for, forthe future of higher education?
It feels like we're, we'restanding at a crossroads.
Jack (22:32):
I think, I think we are at
a, at a pivotal moment, you
know, the decisions thatinstitutions make today are
going to shape the future ofeducation for, for generations
to come.
Jill (22:43):
It's a big responsibility.
Jack (22:44):
It is.
So
Jill (22:44):
what does that future look
like?
I mean, it's both exciting and alittle bit scary, right?
As you imagine.
It is.
It
Jack (22:51):
is.
We can't.
Predict the future withcertainty, of course, but the
trends that we've been talkingabout,
Jill (22:56):
yeah.
Jack (22:57):
They definitely paint a
picture of, of what's to come.
Okay.
Technology, you know?
Yeah.
It's gonna continue torevolutionize how we learn and
teach.
Jill (23:04):
Right.
Jack (23:05):
We're gonna see, you know,
even more personalized learning
experiences.
Jill (23:08):
Okay.
Jack (23:08):
AI powered tools, these
immersive virtual environments.
It's,
Jill (23:12):
it's really about, I
guess, embracing those
advancements.
Yeah.
And finding creative ways tointegrate them into the
educational experience.
Jack (23:21):
Absolutely.
And alongside that, alongsidethat technological evolution,
there's also this growingemphasis on student
Jill (23:31):
centricity.
Jack (23:31):
The universities that
really prioritize student needs,
personalize the learningjourney, provide that
comprehensive support, those arethe ones that are going to
thrive.
Jill (23:41):
So it's really about
putting students at the heart.
Jack (23:44):
At the heart.
Of
Jill (23:45):
everything they do.
Jack (23:46):
Absolutely.
Jill (23:46):
I like that.
And And let's not forget aboutoutcomes, right?
Jack (23:50):
I
Jill (23:50):
mean, students and their
families, they want to know
Jack (23:53):
Yeah.
Jill (23:54):
that this investment in
education
Jack (23:56):
Yeah.
Jill (23:56):
is gonna pay off.
Jack (23:58):
Absolutely.
Jill (23:58):
Yeah.
Jack (23:59):
They're, they're looking
for tangible results.
Right.
A clear path to a, to afulfilling and financially
rewarding career.
Jill (24:06):
So it's not just about
getting a degree anymore.
It's about acquiring the skillsand the knowledge
Jack (24:11):
The skills, yeah.
Jill (24:12):
that translate into real
world success.
Jack (24:14):
Exactly.
And that means, you know Yeah.
Going beyond those, thosetraditional academic
disciplines.
Jill (24:19):
Okay.
Jack (24:20):
Universities need to equip
students critical thinking,
problem solving, communication,collaboration.
Jill (24:26):
These are the, the soft
skills we hear so much about.
Jack (24:29):
Soft skills, essential
skills, whatever you want to
call them.
Jill (24:32):
Right.
The things that employers arereally looking for.
Jack (24:34):
Yeah.
The kind of skills that aregoing to be in high demand, no
matter how the, how the jobmarket evolves.
That's
Jill (24:39):
a good point.
It's about preparing them, notjust for the jobs of today, but
for the jobs that haven't evenbeen invented yet.
Jack (24:46):
You got it, yeah.
We're in an era of rapid change.
Jill (24:50):
Right.
Jack (24:51):
And adaptability is key.
It
Jill (24:53):
is!
Jack (24:54):
Instilling in students a
love of learning, a thirst for
knowledge, the ability toembrace new challenges.
It's
Jill (25:00):
how you future proof them.
Jack (25:01):
You got it.
That's how you future proofthem.
Jill (25:03):
I like that.
But, but amidst all these, youknow, all these changes and
advancements, Yeah.
There's, there's one fundamentalelement that, that I think will
always remain crucial.
Jack (25:14):
And what's that?
Jill (25:15):
Human connection.
Yes.
I think about the relationshipsbetween students and faculty.
Right.
The bonds that are formed withinthe campus community.
Yeah.
The mentorship that, that guidesstudents along their educational
journeys.
Jack (25:30):
Yeah.
These are the things Yeah.
That truly make educationtransformative.
Jill (25:34):
It's that human element.
Yeah.
It's that, that spark ofinspiration.
Yeah.
That connection with a mentorwho believes in you.
Jack (25:41):
Absolute.
Those
Jill (25:42):
are the things that no
algorithm can replicate.
Jack (25:45):
No algorithm can replicate
that.
You're right.
Jill (25:46):
And so as we, as we look
to the future, yeah.
It's, it's essential to rememberthat technology should.
Enhance.
Jack (25:55):
Enhance.
Jill (25:56):
Not replace human
interaction.
Jack (25:57):
Exactly.
It's about, it's about findingthat balance.
Right.
Between leveraging the power oftechnology.
Jill (26:04):
Yep.
Jack (26:04):
And nurturing those
invaluable human connections.
Jill (26:08):
Absolutely.
Jack (26:09):
That make education so
much more.
Jill (26:11):
Yeah.
Jack (26:11):
Than just acquiring
information.
Jill (26:13):
It's about the whole
person.
It
Jack (26:14):
is.
It's about the whole person.
Jill (26:16):
So as we, Thank you.
As we conclude this deep diveinto the future of higher
education, what's the one keytakeaway you'd like our
listeners to ponder?
Jack (26:27):
You know, I would leave
them with this thought.
What if the future of higher edwasn't just about adapting to
change?
But about co creating italongside students.
Jill (26:40):
Co creating it?
Yeah.
Jack (26:41):
Imagine, imagine
universities that actively
involve students.
Jill (26:45):
Okay.
Jack (26:45):
In designing curricula.
Jill (26:47):
Yeah.
Jack (26:48):
Shaping campus culture.
Jill (26:49):
Interesting.
Jack (26:50):
Even defining what success
looks like.
Jill (26:53):
Wow.
That's, that a powerful idea.
Jack (26:56):
It's a, it's a future I
would be excited to see unfold.
Jill (26:58):
It is.
It's a powerful vision.
Jack (27:00):
It is.
Jill (27:01):
And a reminder that, that
the future of higher education
isn't, Right.
It's something we can activelyshape and influence.
Jack (27:08):
Exactly.
It's a call to action.
Yeah.
For institutions to be bold.
Jill (27:12):
Okay.
To
Jack (27:12):
be innovative.
Yeah.
And above all, to put studentsat the center of their mission.
I like that.
Jill (27:18):
Well, thank you so much
for joining us on this deep
dive.
It's been a pleasure.
Into this, this ever evolvingworld of higher education.
It's been a fascinatingexploration and I'm, I'm eager
to see what the future holds.
Jack (27:29):
You too.
Jill (27:30):
Well, thanks again for
joining us.
Jack (27:32):
It's been a pleasure.
Until next time.
Jill (27:33):
Until next time.
Keep
Jack (27:34):
learning.
Jill (27:35):
Keep learning.
Keep
Jack (27:36):
questioning.
Keep
Jill (27:37):
questioning.
Jack (27:37):
And keep pushing the
boundaries.
Jill (27:39):
Push the boundaries.
Jack (27:41):
Of what education can be.
Jill (27:43):
Awesome.
Thanks again.
Jack (27:44):
Thanks.