IWU Admissions Focus Group Study
Major
Political Science
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Business, Psychology
Faculty Advisor
Amanda Vicary
Location
CNS Atrium
Start Date
4-11-2026 11:15 AM
End Date
4-11-2026 12:30 PM
Abstract
The Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) Admissions Focus Group Study, conducted by students in Business 370, explores the primary factors influencing prospective students’ decisions to enroll at IWU rather than other institutions. This qualitative study examines how current students perceived IWU during their college search process and which elements most shaped their final enrollment decision. Eight focus group sessions were conducted with students from multiple class years and diverse academic and extracurricular backgrounds, including business, psychology, STEM majors, athletes, and music students. Participants were recruited through faculty outreach in psychology and business courses as well as through Psychology 100 research participation requirements. Sessions ranged from 30 to 90 minutes and followed a structured discussion guide. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and supplemented with researcher notes capturing nonverbal observations. Data will be reviewed to identify recurring themes across groups, with findings intended to inform future admissions marketing strategies grounded in student perspectives.
IWU Admissions Focus Group Study
CNS Atrium
The Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) Admissions Focus Group Study, conducted by students in Business 370, explores the primary factors influencing prospective students’ decisions to enroll at IWU rather than other institutions. This qualitative study examines how current students perceived IWU during their college search process and which elements most shaped their final enrollment decision. Eight focus group sessions were conducted with students from multiple class years and diverse academic and extracurricular backgrounds, including business, psychology, STEM majors, athletes, and music students. Participants were recruited through faculty outreach in psychology and business courses as well as through Psychology 100 research participation requirements. Sessions ranged from 30 to 90 minutes and followed a structured discussion guide. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and supplemented with researcher notes capturing nonverbal observations. Data will be reviewed to identify recurring themes across groups, with findings intended to inform future admissions marketing strategies grounded in student perspectives.