College admissions on Facebook? This time, students will like it

April 29, 6:28 AMCollege Admissions ExaminerLauren Starkey

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Imagine you’ve got a question for the admissions department at a school you’re interested in. Instead of calling or sending an email, you take a minute out of the dozens you spend every day on Facebook, head to the school’s fan page, and fire away. Soon, you’ve got a personal reply from an admissions officer.

A new social networking tool announced today by Intelliworks Inc. makes it possible for colleges to integrate Facebook with their other relationship management efforts.  Intelliworks Social Marketing is a win-win for both students and admissions officers.  Students can get the information they need, and establish the all-important demonstrated interest that makes admissions departments take notice. Admissions get to establish a Facebook presence and manage interactions with students seamlessly.

Dan Obregon of Intelliworks cited a survey of college admissions professionals which indicated that while 90% of them believe online networking is important, very few of them are doing it. In addition to duties such as traveling to college fairs, interviewing, and reviewing applications, admissions professionals haven’t found the time to manage Facebook.  

But what about students’ privacy? Obregon points out that all contact is initiated by the student—colleges won’t be out there searching for potential friends/applicants, and no information is exchanged unless the student allows it.  Plus, the student has the assurance that the contact is legitimate. Questions are answered by admissions professionals, who also manage the content on the Facebook page.

As students begin to check out schools and determine where they’ll apply, it makes sense to check out Facebook. They’re already there, and in time, colleges will be too.