Why Students Ghost Educators – And How to Overcome It

In my work with Esportian Education , I've experienced countless times the frustrating experience of being "ghosted" by potential students. We invest significant time in understanding their goals, offering tailored advice, and discussing opportunities, only for them to vanish without a word. It's more than just an inconvenience—it's a problem that affects both the student's future and the educator's ability to help.

After working with hundreds of students, I’ve learned a crucial truth: the issue isn’t simply a lack of communication; it’s a misunderstanding of the value of open, professional dialogue. Students often don’t realize that dropping out of communication isn’t just frustrating—it also closes the door to opportunities they may desperately need.

One obvious problem educators face is the wasted time and resources spent on ghosted leads. However, the deeper, hidden issue lies in a lack of understanding on both sides. Students often don't understand that keeping educators informed—whether they decide to continue or take a different path—is not just respectful but vital for their professional growth.

Moreover, many students-gamers see no harm in abruptly ending communication, unaware that it hinders their reputation. If they don’t learn how to maintain professional relationships now, they risk missing out on future opportunities. The real problem, therefore, isn't just the ghosting; it's a lack of awareness about how professional relationships work.

Let me share a story about one student, Alex, who initially showed great promise. He was excited, passionate, and ready to explore his opportunities in collegiate esports. After our initial discussions, we developed a tailored pathway that aligned with his goals. But then, unexpectedly, Alex stopped responding. Emails went unanswered, calls weren’t returned—it was as if he had vanished.

One year later, Alex reached out, explaining that he had considered a different program but realized too late that it wasn’t the right fit. By then, the opportunities we discussed had passed, and he found himself wanting to transfer. Had Alex communicated earlier, we could have helped him explore other options without losing precious time.

So, how can educators and students navigate this issue more effectively?

1. Set Clear Expectations Early: Begin every conversation by establishing the importance of communication. Let students know that you expect them to keep you informed, even if they decide to go in a different direction.
2. Follow-Up with a Purpose: Instead of generic follow-ups, provide value with each interaction. Share new opportunities, resources, or insights tailored to the student's interests to keep them engaged.
3. Educate About Professionalism: Take a few moments to educate students on the importance of maintaining professional relationships. Encourage them to see communication as an investment in their future, not a chore.
4. Leverage Multiple Touchpoints: Use various communication channels—emails, Discord, and social media—to stay connected. Sometimes, students are more comfortable responding on a platform they use frequently.

By creating a culture of open communication, educators can dramatically increase engagement and trust. This not only helps in maintaining a strong relationship with potential students but also ensures they are better prepared for the real world. Students learn valuable lessons in professionalism, increasing their chances of success both in their academic pursuits and future careers.

Improved communication also saves time and resources for educators, allowing them to focus their efforts on students who are genuinely interested and invested. This creates a more efficient and effective recruitment process, benefiting everyone involved.

If you’re an educator in the esports/gaming sector facing this challenge or a student who’s been unsure about how to communicate, let’s connect. Let’s ensure every opportunity is maximized for both educators and students!