Presenter(s)

Emma Miller

Abstract

This project examines my internship experience with the Admissions Office at Winona State University, where I developed professional skills while supporting prospective students throughout the college admissions process. The internship provided hands-on exposure to student recruitment strategies, communication methods, and daily administrative operations within higher education. Throughout the experience, I assisted with campus visits, engaged with prospective students and their families, and responded to inquiries regarding coordinating large group visits with high schools across the state. I also contributed to outreach efforts, including event support and communication initiatives designed to increase student engagement and enrollment interest. These responsibilities allowed me to strengthen my communication, organization, and interpersonal skills in a professional setting. Additionally, this internship provided insight into how admissions offices play a critical role in shaping incoming classes and fostering institutional growth. Observing admissions counselors and staff highlighted the importance of relationship-building and personalized communication in influencing students' college decisions. Overall, this experience demonstrates the value of experiential learning in bridging academic knowledge with real-world application. The internship not only enhanced my professional confidence but also solidified my interest in careers related to communication in an organization.

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department

Communication Studies

Campus

Winona

First Advisor/Mentor

Adam Gaffey

Location

Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States

Start Date

4-23-2026 2:00 PM

End Date

4-23-2026 3:00 PM

Presentation Type

Poster Session

Format of Presentation or Performance

In-Person

Session

2b=2pm-3pm

Poster Number

38

Included in

Communication Commons

Share

COinS
 
Apr 23rd, 2:00 PM Apr 23rd, 3:00 PM

Winona State University Admissions Internship

Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States

This project examines my internship experience with the Admissions Office at Winona State University, where I developed professional skills while supporting prospective students throughout the college admissions process. The internship provided hands-on exposure to student recruitment strategies, communication methods, and daily administrative operations within higher education. Throughout the experience, I assisted with campus visits, engaged with prospective students and their families, and responded to inquiries regarding coordinating large group visits with high schools across the state. I also contributed to outreach efforts, including event support and communication initiatives designed to increase student engagement and enrollment interest. These responsibilities allowed me to strengthen my communication, organization, and interpersonal skills in a professional setting. Additionally, this internship provided insight into how admissions offices play a critical role in shaping incoming classes and fostering institutional growth. Observing admissions counselors and staff highlighted the importance of relationship-building and personalized communication in influencing students' college decisions. Overall, this experience demonstrates the value of experiential learning in bridging academic knowledge with real-world application. The internship not only enhanced my professional confidence but also solidified my interest in careers related to communication in an organization.

 

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