Prospective students experience some of Alfred State’s 200+ hands-on labs during open house programs
From Alfred State College,
The incoming class at Alfred State College (ASC) reached 1,493 full-time new students on census date, the largest group since 2010, for a total enrollment of 3,758. This milestone continues an upward trend for ASC despite a regional decline in high school graduates. Leaders credit the success to immersive campus visits that let prospective students experience hands-on learning, close faculty connections, and a strong career focus.
“At Alfred State, we pride ourselves on delivering a high-quality education grounded in applied learning across every program,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management Kishan Zuber. “In today’s world, career readiness makes all the difference – and it’s one of the biggest reasons students choose us. I’ve challenged my team to ensure every campus visit leaves a lasting impression. We’ve reimagined the experience to emphasize meaningful, face-to-face connections with faculty and staff, along with opportunities to engage directly with current Pioneers.”
Hands-on open houses, high school mini visits, admitted student days, and events like Veterinary, Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology (VAST) Career Discovery Days have drawn thousands of visitors to campus. Families tour classrooms and labs, sample dining, meet professors, and see residence hall options. For many, the mix of interactive activities and conversations with industry-experienced faculty sets Alfred State apart.
“We try to show our visitors what it really is like to be a student at Alfred State,” commented Associate Vice President of Integrated Enrollment Services Kandi Geibel. “Our enrollment team, in partnership with faculty and offices across campus, provides added opportunities to interact with professors and experience labs in action. They get to feel the community of support that will propel them through college and onto a rewarding career.”
Across the enrollment process, Alfred State is seeing gains at every stage. Campus visits and attendance at open houses, admitted student days, and orientation are all up more than 10 percent over the past year. Each step in this admissions cycle reflects growing intent to enroll, driving this fall’s increase.
Alfred State’s admissions and marketing teams are also expanding outreach into new markets and multiple states. As a result, out-of-state applications have grown 41 percent in the past two years, and the total number of applications from all states for fall 2025 is a record-breaking 11,500. Looking ahead, interest remains strong, with applications for fall 2026 already 23 percent higher than at this time last year.
Research shows that applicants who visit campus are far more likely to enroll, and more than 64 percent of this year’s incoming class visited before the semester began, underscoring that seeing the Alfred and Wellsville campuses in action is often the deciding factor. High school juniors and seniors will have two upcoming chances to experience it for themselves at open house programs on October 18 and November 9.
College leaders note that Alfred State’s 99 percent job placement and continuing education rate, nationally ranked programs, and affordable tuition make it a top choice for families seeking both value and results. Open house events provide a glimpse of what college life is all about, and enrollment momentum shows that students and parents like what they see.
An Alfred State degree gets results!
At Alfred State College, hands-on experience leads to career success. An emphasis on applied learning enables students to reach goals and develop the skills needed to thrive at in-demand jobs. With over 80 majors, over 100 clubs and civic groups, and 18 NCAA Division III sports, Alfred State prepares students to become leaders, achievers, and Pioneers who are ready to Hit the Ground Running …
