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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine why accepted applicants to technical college make the decision to not attend. Because the college application process is time-consuming, its completion indicates commitment to the institution. The large number of potential students who make the decision not to enroll after being accepted represent a group that could be better served by technical colleges. Additionally, their attendance could assist colleges in meeting enrollment goals. Finding out why these students do not enroll could allow colleges to enact measures addressing their concerns, thereby providing better service and growing enrollment. By interviewing nine accepted students who did not enroll at SCTC, this study uncovered perceived barriers for this group. Of these nine interview participants, there were three from each program being examined for this study: Welding and Joining Technician, Automotive Technology, and Commercial Truck Driving. Interview questions were designed to determine motivations of students, personal goals of students and college instrumentality in obtaining these goals, the level of assistance provided by friends and family to this group while navigating the application process, and institutional issues that impact enrollment, such as campus proximity, cost, and access to student support services. Interview participants expressed few problems with college location, cost, and student support services. Additionally, few received encouragement from friends, but almost all were influenced by family members during the application process. Three of the nine participants reported issues with the colleges communication process. For these three, there was a feeling of confusion and an inability to get the information they deemed necessary for enrollment. Most reasons given for not enrolling following acceptance were personal, such as changes in employment, though college messaging was mentioned as a barrier to enrollment as well.