Happy Monday! Today we’re getting honest with Martin Beck, executive director of strategic marketing and communications at Soka University of America, located in Southern California.
Q: What’s one story you wish your institution would tell more often?
The story of what students are actually thinking about.
Soka University of America attracts students who chose a small, values-driven liberal arts college over bigger names — that’s a countercultural choice.
We don’t tell that “why Soka” story nearly enough, and it might be our most compelling one.
What I love about this answer:
I love Martin’s honesty here, and I think he’s right. The “why you chose our school” story should be compelling for any institution, but that is particularly true for a school like Soka.
It’s easy for prospective students to feel pressured to pursue more well-known schools, but part of that is because they may not know about other opportunities.
From a school’s perspective, you’ve got to tell your story — not just what differentiates you, but why students choose your school. Doing so will not only help prospects become aware of your school, but it also helps them understand how transformative their experience could be.
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PLUS … whenever you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you bring storytelling to life in your own work:
- Download my free higher ed guides
– 5 formats to make your alumni stories stand out
– 9 clever ways to create fresh content from your events
- Work with me on a writing project
I’ve supported schools across the country with website overhauls, prospect communications, and advancement content. Email me with “Storytelling” in the subject line to learn more.
- Collaborate on a custom content strategy project
I’ve developed custom strategies for programs specializing in everything from AI and biotech to informatics and journalism that maximize their content potential. Respond with “Content Strategy” in the subject line and I’ll get back to you with more details.
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