Recent graduates are a critical audience for any college or university. They represent a vital piece for the development of a strong and loyal alumni base and a unique challenge. This valuable group not only contributes their time and talent, but also donations.

These individuals hold the key to fresh, engaging stories about life as a recent student and are walking and talking brand ambassadors and recruitment billboards for the college. It is essential for you to determine the best way to engage recent graduates and engage them with things that they care about.

When developing your plan to engage your young alumni, there are 5 key areas that should be considered for success:

1.) Expectations
How do you treat recent graduates? Once stated: “Treat students like alumni. Treat alumni like students.” Why not begin the conversation about the importance of giving back to your alma mater the moment you step in the door?

The Kelley School at Indiana University does one of the most effective jobs in Higher Education of setting expectations with their MBA students the moment they become a student. This message greets them right on their website’s homepage:

“When you chose the IU Kelley School of Business, you became part of a vast network of alumni. Leverage this resource to navigate your career path and build your professional network. Contribute your expertise and experience. Invest in programs and initiatives that support the School’s mission.” 

2.) Events/Networking 
One of the main items this group is seeking out is the opportunity to connect with other alumni who share similar memories and experiences. What are some interesting ways to do this? Utilize this window of opportunity by creating timely social events to give your alumni group exactly what they are looking for. This is also a great time to ask them how they would like to connect with your institution in the coming years.

Stanford does a great job of providing relevant and interesting networking events through their Breakfast Briefing programs. They are always very well attended.

3.) Communications/Social Media
Getting the right message to your recent graduates at the right time is crucial to engagement. Social media, newsletters, and e-communications are all part of the mix.

Social Media is where young alumni are and you should be there, too!

How are you utilizing LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter to convey the message of giving and connecting? Do students join your LinkedIn group the moment they are accepted?

Consider the shared experience concept. Is there a certain beloved professor who would consider reaching out to recent graduates? Have that professor ask for life/job updates and eventually make them ask.

Is your alumni list available to students? If a recent graduate moves to San Diego, can he or she request a list of all of your alumni in the area?

4.) Recognition 
Do you have a separate award for an inspirational recent grad?

UNC Kenan Flagler for example does a great job with honoring alumni of all ages. Incorporating a recent graduate award would be a nice addition to a recognition program.

DePaul University is another great example of a school who does this very well. Their publication of 14 under 40is a big hit and an honor to be recognized in.

5.) Fundraising
Part of the engagement with recent graduates is through giving back. This can be done in relation to both time and money.

Competition, especially for business students, is especially motivating. Divide recent graduates into teams and have several volunteers serve as captains. Harvard Business School does a fantastic job of using their competitive alumni to raise money based on competition.

Quantify the results of what they are giving to and what it results in by showing through videos and social media.

Incorporate service opportunities when possible. Give alumni credit for their service time and build it into the recent graduate engagement program. Host a special day of service for recent graduates.

There are countless more examples of schools from around the country who are doing smart, innovative things to better engage this important group of ambassadors.

What are your success stories? Please feel free to share in the comments section below.

For more information on engaging young alumni, click on this link below and download our white papers.