Engines of Anxiety: Academic Rankings, Reputation, and Accountability (2016)
by Wendy Nelson Espeland and Michael Sauder
Engines of Anxiety takes readers on a fascinating journey inside the world of law school rankings, featuring insights from over 200 interviews with education leaders and students, on how schools conform to meet ranking criteria at the cost of how students are assessed, enrolled, and hired. Note: This book is not just for law schools, it’s extremely relevant in any school qualified by academic rankings.
The Diversity Bargain: And Other Dilemmas of Race, Admissions, and Meritocracy at Elite Universities (2016)
by Natasha K. Warikoo
In a time where university leaders are pushing their admissions teams to enroll more “diverse” classrooms and hire “Chief Diversity Officers,” author Natasha Warikoo speaks with students on elite campuses to offer a timely exploration of what ‘diversity’ means on campus. The Diversity Bargain is an essential read for admissions teams in 2017 seeking to develop their process in ways that level social inequalities and build stronger classrooms.
There is Life After College (2016)
by Jeffrey J. Selingo
There is Life After College gives admissions professionals a refreshing reality check into the world of their applicants. Selingo is spot on with practical tips about things like choosing the right fit college, gaining hands-on experience through co-op placements and internships, finding a mentor, and navigating the campus recruiting scene.
Paying for the Party: How College Maintains Inequality (2015)
by Elizabeth A. Armstrong and Laura T. Hamilton
These authors follow a group of female students from their first year in student residence through to graduation, projecting a fascinating spotlight on how each student's socioeconomic status affects her throughout their college experience. A powerful read for enrollment strategists tasked to improve access and retention rates.
Designing the New American University (2015)
by Michael Crow and William Dabars
Designing the New American University uses Arizona State University's transformation into an international research and academic leader over the last decade as a case study, among others, to show how educational institutions can adapt to maximize their potential to generate ideas and impact our changing society.
Everyday Bias: Identifying and Navigating Unconscious Judgments in Our Daily Lives (2014)
by Howard J. Ross
Earlier this fall, we released an eBook called ‘Breaking Down Bias in Admissions’ which explored how biases affect admissions decisions. This bestseller wraps up our admissions reading list because of its deeper dive into this highly contentious issue in our industry, offering numerous examples to help readers disconnect with their own biases and mindfully reduce the impact of bias in their school’s process.
Comment below to let us know which book you'd like to read first!