Requesting Promotional Materials From Higher Education Institutions A Guide For Prospective Students

Prospective students seeking promotional materials from colleges and universities can utilize specific communication strategies to request free items. Educational institutions often distribute promotional goods as part of their recruitment efforts to generate interest among potential applicants. This practice allows colleges to increase brand visibility while providing students with tangible items that may aid in their decision-making process.

Methods of Contact

There are two primary methods for requesting promotional items from educational institutions: email and telephone. Both approaches require preparation to ensure the request is received positively.

Email Communication

Creating a standardized email template is recommended to streamline the request process. This template should be easily adaptable for different institutions to avoid the appearance of spam. When drafting the email, the following elements should be included: * A polite and professional salutation. * A statement expressing interest in the institution. * A specific request for promotional items or free merchandise. * Contact information for follow-up.

Telephone Communication

Contacting the admissions office by telephone is an alternative method. Similar to email, having a prepared script is beneficial. Researching specific details about the college prior to the call can demonstrate genuine interest, which may increase the likelihood of a successful request.

Strategies for Success

To maximize the chances of receiving promotional materials, requesters should consider the following factors:

• Target Selection: It is advisable to contact colleges within one's state or institutions that one is genuinely interested in attending. Colleges are more likely to provide free merchandise to individuals they perceive as prospective applicants.
• Personalization: While using a template, minor personalization for each specific college is recommended to ensure the communication does not appear automated.
• Persistence: If a response is not received, it is suggested to follow up with another email or try contacting a different institution.

Types of Available Items

Colleges may offer a variety of promotional items. Requests can range from standard apparel to educational materials. Common items include: * Apparel such as t-shirts and hats. * School supplies including pens and notebooks. * Promotional accessories like koozies and posters. * In some cases, books or other educational materials.

Institutions Known to Provide Promotional Materials

Certain institutions have been identified as responsive to requests for free merchandise. These institutions are often seeking to attract new students and view promotional distribution as a viable recruitment tool.

Regional Examples

Various colleges across different states have reportedly provided free merchandise to those who ask. Examples of institutions that have been mentioned in this context include:

• Alabama: Alabama State University.
• Alaska: Alaska Pacific University.
• Arkansas: Arkansas State University, University of Arkansas.
• California: California Institute of Technology, California Lutheran University, Chapman University.
• Kentucky: University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University.
• Louisiana: Specific institutions in this state were noted as potential sources.

Contact Information for Specific Institutions

For certain universities, direct contact methods have been established:

• Alabama State University: Can be contacted via phone at (800) 253-5037 or through their contact form.
• Columbia Southern University: Offers live chat and email options via their website.
• Faulkner University: Provides a contact form for requests.
• Alaska Pacific University: Can be reached at (907) 561-1266, though calling is suggested over using the web form for merchandise requests.

Application for High School Counselors

High school counselors can also utilize these strategies to obtain materials for their offices and students. Colleges benefit from distributing materials to high schools as it increases exposure to prospective students. Counselors are encouraged to send request letters to area colleges to acquire items such as pennants, t-shirts, and posters.

Conclusion

Requesting promotional items from colleges is a viable method for obtaining free merchandise. The process involves identifying target institutions, utilizing appropriate communication channels, and clearly articulating the request. Success is more likely when the request comes from a prospective student with a genuine interest in the institution. If a request is unsuccessful, the individual is encouraged to try other institutions or follow up at a later time.

Sources

1. Mountain Woodlands
2. Que Le Parece
3. Link for Counselors