With the cancellation of major university recruitment events and the transition to online learning, the Division of Enrollment Management team has had to adapt quickly and creatively to new ways of engaging both potential and current students.
“The entire division is working remotely and immediately began turning events designed around the ‘in person experience’ into ‘experiences for the person,’” said Dawn Medley, associate vice president of Enrollment Management. “We’re using our AI chatbot, “W,” to answer simple questions for incoming WSU students and have expanded those efforts to help support current students. We’re also excited to announce the launch of brand-new virtual programs to help incoming students transition to WSU.”
Among the new initiatives is the Wisr Warriors program, a virtual platform that matches incoming students with peer mentors to learn about getting involved and life at Wayne State. Students can explore multiple ways to connect that will prepare them for beginning college.
The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is currently offering virtual appointments and telephone advising. They were also able to shift in-person recruitment events to virtual versions and figured out ways to utilize new and existing tools to service students and families online.
“This is such an uncertain and challenging time. Now, more than ever, we need to be helpful, responsive and understanding,” said Ericka M. Jackson, senior director of undergraduate admissions. “It is also an important time for students who are deciding where they will attend college in the fall. Our response has been guided by our mission of access and equity. We have extended our decision deadline to allow students the space and time they need to make important decisions. Thankfully, we have offered a virtual tour option for many years and encourage students to visit with us online. We have all had the opportunity to give new meaning to #WarriorStrong.”
The Office of Student Financial Aid has been working to ensure remote services do not impact students ability to access their financial aid information.
“In response to the urgency needed to keep our students and staff safe, the financial aid office moved everything to a remote process,” said Cathy Kay, senior director of Financial Aid. “We also do not anticipate any delay in the disbursement of aid. We are here to help students in whatever way we can.”
New and continuing students can reach offices in the Student Service Center by calling 313-577-2100 or emailing studentservice@wayne.edu.
“In these types of circumstances, swift and thoughtful response is key in maintaining as much certainty for students as we are able,” said Latonia Garrett, director of the Student Service Center. “When unforeseen barriers present themselves, we all stop to consider the many roles that we carry in life. Our entire division moved quickly to anticipate need because we wanted to comfort students when they considered their role as a student.”
For more information on how to connect with the student service center, visit wayne.edu/studentservice.