By Julie Rahmer, Learning, Research & Engagement Lead,
Brainstorm Strategy Group
4-minute read
“How well do our programs and services reflect the needs of today’s students?”
That question was recently posed to participants during Brainstorm’s Post-Secondary Leadership Academy, and their answers reveal a clear message: while many institutions are doing a good job, students are moving faster than most schools can keep up.
Communication: From Email to Engagement
Even when programs are strong, communication is a persistent weak spot. Leaders repeatedly noted heavy reliance on email, a channel many students now ignore.
Short-form video, reels, text messages, and coordinated social media strategies remain underused. One participant put it bluntly: “We rely heavily on email, which has become a barrier to meeting the needs of students.”
Tips:
- Repurpose existing content into short clips or infographics using free tools like Canva or smartphone video.
- Batch and schedule posts with built-in features on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn to keep messaging consistent.
- Invite student staff or volunteers to create occasional “takeover” posts to bring a peer voice.
Flexible, Experiential Programs
Students want work-integrated learning (WIL) and career development opportunities, but supply is limited. Longer internship models, such as twelve-month placements in some disciplines, don’t always align with student expectations today. Many students are seeking shorter terms, opportunities with multiple employers, and more varied experiences.
Several leaders also pointed to the importance of curricular coherence—ensuring that courses, schedules, and experiential components fit together in a logical, student-friendly way.
As one participant explained, “We are lagging behind student expectations. Curricular coherence, delivery, and scheduling all need improvement. Students encounter a patchwork of requirements and overlapping content, which makes it harder to see a clear path from first year to graduation.”
Institutions are responding by reviewing program structures and course sequencing to reduce duplication and strengthen the link between academics and career preparation.
Tips:
- Pilot micro-placements or short project challenges with existing employer partners.
- Encourage faculty to integrate course-based projects or case competitions that double as WIL experiences.
- Map current programs to identify overlaps or gaps to reveal opportunities for better coordination.
Personalization and Belonging
Participants spoke about the growing demand for personalized support and the need to counter social isolation. Students—especially those from equity-deserving groups—expect services tailored to their circumstances, not one-size-fits-all programming.
Practical actions:
- Use quick polls at events or QR-code surveys to collect feedback in real time.
- Share small wins publicly (“You asked for more evening sessions—here they are”) to show students their voices matter.
- Organize peer-to-peer meetups or study groups that strengthen community.
Planning WITH Students, Not Just for Them
Several institutions are tying new strategic plans to student feedback and research, aligning direction with retention goals and emerging needs.
This isn’t just a communication exercise—it’s about embedding student expectations into every layer of the organization.
Tips:
- Form a rotating student advisory circle to provide input on upcoming initiatives.
- Integrate a “student perspective” question into every planning meeting to keep the focus consistent.
The Takeaway
Today’s students expect flexibility, personalization, and communication that meets them where they are.
Whether you oversee career services, academic programs, or student affairs, the challenge isn’t just to keep up with student needs—it’s to anticipate them.
Start small, build on what you already have, and invite students to design the future with you.
