How an Esports Program Can Boost Student Engagement and Influence College Choice

In my work guiding students select their ideal collegiate esports program, I've seen countless schools struggle to differentiate themselves and attract students in an increasingly competitive market. After talking with +200 collegiate esports programs in launching successful esports initiatives, I realized that there are certain indicators and patterns that can help schools not only attract more students but also significantly enhance student engagement and campus life. My experience in both esports and education has given me a unique perspective on why esports programs can serve as a powerful tool for driving enrollment and fostering a vibrant student community.

One of the top challenges colleges and universities face today is student recruitment and retention. Many institutions are struggling to attract prospective students who are looking for something unique and relevant in their college experience. In a crowded education market, where numerous colleges offer similar courses and degrees, standing out is increasingly difficult.

The known problem is that many universities rely on traditional programs and extracurricular activities to appeal to prospective students, but these efforts often fall short in reaching today’s tech-savvy students. The hidden issue is that institutions often fail to recognize the growing interest in esports and gaming among young people. The deeper problem is a lack of understanding of how esports programs can provide both academic and social benefits, creating a compelling reason for students to choose a particular university.

Take the example of Robert Morris University or Fisher College , which from an international perspective and sports agents are involved daily with universities that were not well known nationally or even internationally . The administration realized they needed a fresh approach to appeal to a broader student demographic. They decided to launch an esports program, hoping it would attract new students and reinvigorate campus life. Nowadays, students and professionals in the industry know both universities because they are top in the nation competitively and students want to go there.

Initially, there was skepticism about the impact of an esports program. However, within the first year, the universities saw a noticeable increase in potential students and media. The esports programs quickly became a hub of activity, attracting not only competitive players but also students interested in game design, broadcasting, marketing, and management. The programs provided a platform for students to connect, collaborate, and showcase their talents, leading to a stronger sense of community on campus.

Word spread quickly, and prospective students began to inquire specifically about the university's esports offerings during campus tours and recruitment events. The university's esports programs became a differentiating factor, helping to attract a diverse group of students who might not have considered the school otherwise. The student’s we guided that ended up going to Fisher College,? mention many classes, half of the students are from the esports program and they find that amazing.

To replicate this success, colleges and universities should consider the following steps to leverage esports programs for student engagement and recruitment:

1. Establish a Comprehensive Esports Program: A successful esports program goes beyond just competitive gaming. It should include opportunities for students to get involved in various aspects of the esports ecosystem, such as game development, marketing, event management, and broadcasting. By offering a well-rounded program, schools can attract a diverse range of students with different interests and skills.
2. Create a Centralized Hub for Student Interaction: Esports programs can serve as a central hub for student engagement, offering a space where students can connect, collaborate, and build community. This could include a dedicated esports arena or facility that hosts tournaments, watch parties, and events, fostering a sense of belonging and school spirit.
3. Promote the Esports Program as a Unique Selling Point: Highlight the esports program in recruitment materials, campus tours, and open houses. Showcase the program’s successes, such as tournament wins or alumni who have gone on to careers in the gaming industry. Position the esports program as a differentiator that makes the university stand out in a crowded market.
4. Engage Current Students to Drive Word of Mouth: Encourage current students involved in the esports program to share their experiences on social media, blogs, or during recruitment events. Authentic student voices can be powerful in reaching prospective students who are looking for a unique and dynamic college experience.
5. Collaborate with Academic Departments: Integrate the esports program with relevant academic departments, such as computer science, digital media, and business. This collaboration can create interdisciplinary learning opportunities and attract students interested in both academics and gaming.
6. Leverage Partnerships and Sponsorships: Establish partnerships with gaming companies, local businesses, and tech brands to provide additional resources, funding, and visibility for the program. This not only enhances the quality of the esports program but also adds credibility, making it more attractive to prospective students.

By implementing these strategies, colleges can see a range of benefits, including:

• Increased Student Engagement: An esports program can become a dynamic center of student life, bringing together diverse groups and fostering a strong sense of community and school pride.
• Higher Enrollment: A unique and well-promoted esports program can be a significant draw for prospective students, helping to increase enrollment numbers and diversify the student population.
• Enhanced Academic Opportunities: Esports programs provide unique learning opportunities that blend technology, teamwork, and strategy, which are valuable skills for a range of career paths.
• Improved Retention Rates: When students feel engaged and connected to their campus community, they are more likely to stay and complete their degrees, improving retention rates and overall student satisfaction.

Let's connect to discuss how we can create opportunities for esports players and coaches to get into higher education!