Connecting MIT with their Communities

Educational counselors have been serving as MIT's admissions officers in the field since the 1930s, when MIT president Karl T. Compton appointed a number of outstanding graduates in major U.S. cities and some foreign countries as honorary secretaries of MIT. Today, ECs assist the Institute in a variety of ways-as recruiters, community resources, and interviewers-helping the Office of Admissions find the best and the brightest for each year's freshman class. The more than 2,100 alumni volunteers provide a human element in the admissions process, both bringing MIT's message to their communities and sending word back to MIT on the applicants they meet.

As science and technology have become more pervasive in our society, the landscape has changed in the college admissions process. Counselors play a vital role in ensuring that the best high-school students in the world apply to and enroll at MIT. "There is competition for our type of kid that never used to be there," says Lisa Martinez '76, regional coordinator for the educational council in San Antonio, TX. "I know there are talented students in San Antonio; we look for the best and encourage them to reach for MIT. It's good for the students and good for the Institute."

The counselor's role does not end when a student's application is submitted. Indeed, educational counselors also have an important effect on yield-the percentage of admitted students who decide to enroll. Ten years ago, half of the students admitted enrolled; this year over 59 percent chose to enroll. This speaks of MIT's high esteem in the eyes of the world and to the job counselors are doing. They make personal connections with admitted students and make sure they can make informed decisions about enrolling. For example, last spring, more than 50 receptions for admitted students were held so potential members of the Class of 2007 could learn more about MIT before making their enrollment decisions. Events were held around the world, from New York and San Francisco to Korea, Honolulu, and Puerto Rico. Martinez, who hosted a reception at her home, said, "These events provide an invaluable opportunity for students to make connections with current students, parents, and alumni."

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Looking to find out more about becoming an EC? Visit our Web site at web.mit.edu/admissions/www/educoun.

Join A Club: Whether you're moving to a new area or back to your hometown, alumni clubs can connect you with local alumni. Alum.mit.edu/ccg/clubs/join.html