Eric Catinchi

I leaned that Facebook appears to currently the most popular with an audience of over 750 million people using Facebook and some statistics indicate that over 50% of users log in every day. For the career school sector this provides opportunities for admissions staff to engage with prospective students.

I leaned that the Florida Commission for Independent Education holds meetings six times a year in Central Florida. This provides six opportunities for staff to attend. The meetings are also televised so that those who cannot travel can be given the time to watch the state regulatory agency in action.

I learned that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) outlines the prospective and currently enrolled students'rights to privacy. An example is the prohibition to reveal information about student grades or tests to others unless the student has given approval.

I learned that "fair consumer practices" means the honest, accurate, and equitable conduct of business and academic relations between institutions and their students or prospective students. Fair Consumer Practices can be considered the heart of compliant actions. 

I learned that the Florida Association of Postsecondary Schools and Colleges (FAPSC) holds periodic training sessions. I'll also be able to watch for sales and admissions programs that are offered. There are also many individuals and organizations that specialize in Admissions training.

I learned about the importance of gathering information about the institution's programs, as well as talking with instructors and people from each education department to get more insight. As a best practice, using the sample chart provided, one can list the programs by the level, program title, clock and credit hours, and delivery method.

I learned that the Enrollment Agreement can be completed at a later date. However, the student is not considered to be enrolled until all the required information is complete and there is proof that the student meets admissions requirements.

I have learned that there are many changes that can occur at a career school or college. For example, a new program may be added, programs can be eliminated, and some programs or credits might be changed. It is important to stay current and remember that these changes can occur after the school submits an application and has been duly approved. It is not possible to enroll students in new programs until there is full approval. There may also be a change of ownership, control or school name.