Miami alumna builds early career in college admission and student access
Miami alumna builds early career in college admission and student access
Leah Evans, a 2024 graduate of Miami University’s Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education program, is already making an impact in college admission and student access as assistant director of admission at Monmouth College in Illinois.
In her role, Evans manages a recruitment territory spanning about 20 Illinois counties and two additional states, working directly with high school students to help them understand their postsecondary options. Her work includes daily outreach, on- and off-campus events, and relationship building with students, school counselors, and other partners. She also leads initiatives focused on strengthening school counselor engagement and helping partners navigate the changing higher education landscape.
Looking ahead, Evans hopes to continue working in enrollment and postsecondary counseling, with a focus on supporting students no matter where their paths lead. While she is still exploring what that work may look like long term, she remains committed to being a resource for students regardless of their final postsecondary decision.
“In EHS, I learned to meet students where they are and honor their experiences, and I do the same in admission,” Evans said. “I just want students to feel supported as they figure out what comes next.”
Evans joined Monmouth College immediately after graduating from Miami, starting as an admission counselor before earning a promotion to assistant director within a year. She credits her experience in Miami’s College of Education, Health and Society with giving her a broad understanding of how higher education systems work, knowledge she uses daily in enrollment and recruitment.
“Working in enrollment, it is a huge asset to not only understand majors, student life, and admission procedures, but also financial aid and legal issues that influence our students every day,” Evans said.
As a graduate assistant in the EHS Student Success Center, Evans helped revitalize the EHS Ambassadors organization, an accomplishment she says remains especially meaningful as the group continues to grow. She also presented at the Miami Academic Advising Symposium, gaining early professional experience by sharing her work with advisors across the university.
Evans encourages current students to stretch beyond their comfort zones. Taking courses outside her immediate program, including educational policy and quantitative research, broadened her perspective and helped shape her professional growth.
