In the rapidly evolving world of higher education, the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic have reshaped student expectations and institutional practices. Students today are returning to campuses that closely resemble the pre-pandemic college experience, yet their expectations for digital engagement and streamlined communication processes remain higher than ever.
While in-person interactions remain irreplaceable for fostering strong relationships, building community, and promoting connection, colleges and universities now have the opportunity to improve student retention, along with the overall campus experience, by streamlining digital communication.
The Evolution of Student Expectations
The pandemic disrupted education systems globally, forcing a rapid adoption of digital tools and online learning. While many students have returned to in-person learning, their familiarity and comfort with digital tools have fundamentally altered their expectations.
According to recent studies, students now expect more streamlined and dynamic digital interactions with their institutions. For instance, during the pandemic, 47% of students reported that their knowledge of online learning methods increased, and many now expect that level of digital integration to remain.
However, institutions must strike a balance: while digital communication simplifies processes, it should never replace the personal, face-to-face interactions that are critical for creating a sense of belonging and support. Instead, digital tools should be leveraged to enhance the overall campus experience by reducing administrative burdens, improving access to information, and ensuring students feel connected and supported in their educational journey.
Streamlining Communication: Impact on Student Retention
Efficient communication is a cornerstone of student success. Students who feel informed and connected are more likely to engage with their coursework, participate in campus activities, and persist through challenges. Yet, data shows there are gaps in how institutions currently communicate with students. For example, only 20% of students recall receiving timely nudges or reminders about course activities and deadlines. This lack of communication can leave students feeling unsupported and disconnected.
By implementing centralized and streamlined digital communication systems, institutions can address these gaps. Enabling personalized communication allows students to stay on top of deadlines, events, and academic requirements. Additionally, digital platforms can help foster a sense of belonging by providing opportunities for social engagement, connecting students to extracurricular activities, and building a vibrant campus life.
Bridging the Gap: Digital & In-Person Experiences
It’s important to emphasize that streamlining digital communication is not about replacing the in-person college experience—it’s about enhancing it. The data tells us that students value face-to-face interactions. For example, 70% of U.S. freshmen felt their university provided opportunities to be socially involved before the pandemic, but that number dropped to 57% during the height of pandemic disruptions. While this figure has recently risen to 67%, it’s clear that in-person engagement remains a critical part of a fulfilling college experience.
Digital tools can serve as a bridge between students and the in-person opportunities they seek. For example, mobile apps and digital platforms can help students discover and sign up for campus events, connect with peers who share similar interests, or receive updates on club meetings and volunteer opportunities. This integration of technology into the campus culture ensures that students not only participate but thrive in their college experience.
Beyond Student Retention: Benefits for Staff & Admins
Streamlined communication doesn’t just benefit students—it also creates efficiencies for staff and administrators. Managing communication across multiple departments and platforms can be time-consuming and prone to errors. By adopting centralized digital systems, colleges can simplify their workflows, reduce redundancies, and ensure consistent messaging across the institution. These tools also allow for data collection and analysis, enabling administrators to better understand student needs and tailor their services accordingly.
For example, timely reminders about financial aid deadlines, registration dates, or academic advising appointments can reduce the administrative load while also helping students stay on track. This proactive approach helps to improve student retention by reducing the likelihood of missed opportunities or confusion.
Results: Creating a Better Campus Experience
Ultimately, the goal of streamlining digital communication is to create a better campus experience for everyone. By meeting students where they are—digitally—institutions can ensure that students feel informed, connected, and supported for improved student retention. This digital-first approach doesn’t detract from the importance of in-person interactions but rather enhances them by eliminating common barriers to engagement, such as unclear processes or missed deadlines.
As we move forward, colleges and universities must adapt to the evolving needs of their students. The pandemic may have accelerated the adoption of digital tools, but the long-term success of higher education institutions will depend on their ability to integrate these tools into a cohesive strategy that prioritizes student engagement, belonging, and success.
By embracing streamlined digital communication, institutions can foster a campus environment where students feel empowered to succeed—academically, socially, and personally. And in doing so, they can create a brighter, more connected future for higher education.