Let us introduce you!
Marketers, IT support specialists, curriculum designers … just a few of the people who dive into each of our partners’ missions, goals and values in order to create custom student experience, technology and enrollment solutions. Every single person at Collegis is integral to our ability to deliver for our partners. We sat down with Ida-Ellen Sansom, senior enrollment specialist, to learn more about who she is and how she supports our partners.
How would you describe your job to someone outside of the field?
I speak with prospective students about their interest in a respective school and about the application process.
What are three words that describe your role at Collegis?
- Detailed
- Fast-paced
- Ever-changing
How does your role help support our partners?
I strongly feel that admissions work is one of the pillars that holds a school up. As a company, we can support our partners by providing admissions support that offers a genuine, one-on-one student/officer interaction. This relationship can oftentimes be the reason a student ultimately commits to a program.
What are some common questions you hear throughout the day?
- How can I apply?
- What sets your school apart?
What skills do you need to succeed in your role?
- Strong communication skills
- Empathy
- Ability to learn quickly
- Adaptability
What do you enjoy most about your role at Collegis?
I love being a point person – whether it’s with my team or with a student. I love providing solutions to problems for people. I feel I am good at it and I get an immense amount of personal satisfaction from it.
What do you enjoy most about Collegis?
I enjoy that the Collegis leadership team is always open to change and innovation. It’s a valuable trait and it makes me feel valued and like my input matters.
What drew you to work in the higher education field?
I was referred to this position from a friend in the company. Before that I felt I was meant for other industries and higher education was for others with different backgrounds. But Collegis has shown me that I can apply my knowledge and experience and flourish in this field.
Where did you go to college and what degree did you obtain?
I went to the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the adult degree completion program.
What do you value most from your own college experience?
I know this sounds phony, but my admissions officer was probably the most helpful guiding light to me throughout my college experience as they helped me stay committed.
What qualities do you look for when adding members to your team?
- Flexibility
- Compassion
- Enthusiasm
- Teamwork
- Loquaciousness
What is one thing you’ve learned about higher ed since you started working at Collegis?
That nothing is certain and everything changes.
Is there a Collegis project you worked on that is most memorable or you’re particularly proud of?
I work with a medical school partner and it will always be my #1. I may be biased, but I am so proud of everything we have done as a team to help this partner over the years.
What’s something you’re hoping to check off your bucket list?
To buy a house!
