Summer melt has been a growing concern in recent years, as many students are unable to make the transition from high school to college for various reasons. In this article, we will discuss what summer melt is, explore the causes, and look at some of the steps to tackle and reduce this unfortunate hindrance to our yield efforts.
Summer melt is a term used to refer to the situation when students who have been accepted into college or university do not show up to their classes in the fall semester. It is a growing concern for educators and college administrators, as it can have a significant impact on recruitment strategies.
Summer melt can affect students at all levels of education, from high school to college. It is particularly concerning for high school students, as it can have a negative impact on their college prospects. In fact, research has shown that students who are accepted into college but do not show up in the fall semester are less likely to ever enroll in college.
Summer melt can also be caused by a variety of factors, from financial constraints to a lack of support from family and friends. It can be difficult for students to make the transition from high school to college without the proper support and guidance.
There are a variety of factors that can lead to summer melt. Financial constraints can be a major factor, as students may not have the resources or support to make the transition from high school to college. Other factors include a lack of support from family and friends, a lack of knowledge or understanding of the college application process, or a lack of motivation to complete the college application process.
In addition, some students may be overwhelmed by the amount of information they need to know and understand in order to complete the college application process. This can lead to students becoming overwhelmed and discouraged, which can ultimately lead to melt.
Finally, melt can also be caused by a lack of guidance and support from college counselors and other professionals. Many students rely on the help and guidance of these professionals during the college application process, and without them, students may become lost and overwhelmed.
The statistics surrounding summer melt are concerning, to say the least. According to a recent study, approximately 10-20% of college-bound high school seniors fall victim to melt every summer. This number is even higher for low-income and first-generation college students, with some estimates suggesting that as many as 40% of these students are affected by summer melt.
There are a number of steps that can be taken to tackle and reduce melt. These include providing students with adequate resources and support during the college application process, offering information and advice on financial aid and college costs, and providing guidance and support from college counselors and other professionals.
In addition, schools can also implement programs that help to prepare students for the transition from high school to college. These programs can provide students with the support and guidance they need to make the transition from high school to college.
Schools should also consider running workshops and webinars to prepare students for this transition.
The most vital resource for a student at risk of melt is a familiar face at the school they are intending to attend. While webinars and events are a great way to integrate the student into the general community, it is truly those personal relationships that have a larger impact on a student’s comfort with the institution, especially if there are concerns or insecurities they don’t feel comfortable sharing in a more public setting. Continuing to maintain a relationship with students after they’ve accepted their offer is an important consideration in ensuring that they do not become another lost opportunity.
Finally, there are a few tips that can help students tackle and reduce summer melt. First, reaching out to students as early as possible in their college application journey is key to ensuring you have begun fostering a long-standing relationship with them and their specific interests or concerns.
Second, introduce students to counselors so that they have the opportunity to discuss, one-on-one, their options for financial and mental health aid with the school. These professionals can provide students with the resources and support they need to make the transition from high school to college.
Finally, it’s important that you act as a reminder for the student to stay in line with their goals. Gen Z can easily be distracted by other commitments and personal ongoings that they may have their college priorities in back of mind. Keeping in touch with them throughout the process and showing you care can be an incredibly helpful link in ensuring they remain on course to attend in the Fall.
