Introduction
Troy University’s Office of Admissions has unveiled an innovative community engagement initiative called the Refer A Future Trojan (RAFT) program, designed to enhance the university’s recruitment efforts through personal connections. This strategic program empowers the extended Troy community to actively participate in shaping the future of the university by recommending potential students who would thrive in the Trojan environment.
Cultivating Academic Excellence Through Community
The RAFT program represents a significant shift in how Troy University approaches student recruitment, leveraging the power of personal connections within its extended community. Faculty, staff, current students, alumni, and community friends can now easily submit information about promising candidates to the Admissions Office, ensuring no potential talent goes undiscovered.
Blake Bedsole, Associate Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management, emphasizes the program’s accessibility: “We hope this program makes it as easy as possible for TROY faculty, staff, current students, alums, and friends in the community to submit potential student information to the Admissions Office. We don’t want to miss out on building relationships with any individual that would be a good fit with us.”
Nurturing Future Trojans Early
One of the program’s key advantages is its ability to connect with potential students early in their educational journey. The Office of Admissions can now provide comprehensive information to prospective students and their families during the crucial early stages of the decision-making process, allowing for more informed choices about their academic future.
The program has already shown promising results, with nearly 30 referral submissions received from various members of the Troy community. These referrals span a broad spectrum, from elementary school students to those interested in doctoral programs, demonstrating the program’s versatility in attracting diverse academic talent.
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
The RAFT program goes beyond traditional recruitment methods by creating a more personal and engaged approach to university admissions. By involving the entire Troy community in the recruitment process, the university ensures that potential students receive authentic insights into the Trojan experience from those who know it best.
This community-driven approach helps identify students who not only meet academic requirements but also align with Troy University’s values and culture. The personalized outreach from the Office of Admissions adds a welcoming touch to the recruitment process, making prospective students feel valued from their first interaction with the university.
Creating Educational Pathways
The program’s implementation demonstrates Troy University’s commitment to making higher education more accessible through community engagement. By streamlining the referral process and providing early information access, RAFT helps potential students navigate the path to higher education more effectively.
As the program continues to grow, it promises to strengthen the bonds between Troy University and its community while ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified, motivated students who will contribute to the university’s rich academic tradition.
