- Topics mentioned by research participants included sustained rapid change, whole student journey, data-informed decisons, technology and systems, cross-institutional ownership, institution-wide benefit, institution fit, support and resources to advance SEM, preparing SEM leaders, SEM as a critical enabler, and institutional growth and collaboration.
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The most commonly cited challenges are budget constraints, limited awareness of the SEM concept, and the recent decline in international student enrollment. Also receiving top mention are collaboration, recruitment competition, affordability of higher education, adopting a full student lifecycle approach, and the effective use of data in SEM planning.
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When asked how they see challenges faced by US enrollment professionals that differ from those faced by those working outside the US, survey respondents commented on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI); affordability of higher education; oversight of retention and graduate success; endowment support; and regional considerations. When asked what aspects of US-based SEM models are least transferable to their country, they listed EDI, financial topics (tuition, financial aid), and admissions.
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The interviews reinforced these survey findings and identified four related conditions that shape whether SEM planning can move from aspiration to implementation: actionable data, shared institutional ownership, demonstrated institution-wide benefit, and alignment with institutional context.