We’ve seen schools lean into this by making strategic upgrades that reduce friction and elevate the day-to-day experience. It’s not about flash, it’s about functionality and students notice.
How Modern Campus Design Supports Enrollment and Retention
The reality is that first impressions matter. As institutions compete for student enrollment, modern facilities and smart infrastructure are becoming key differentiators. Updated spaces with strong “curb appeal,” plus robust athletic, social, and co-curricular offerings, help campuses stand out, especially in regions where student choice is shifting.
You don’t have to renovate every building to make an impact. Sometimes, improving signage, refreshing a makerspace, or updating the campus help desk system is all it takes to move from outdated to inviting.
EXPLORE: How the student experience is directly impacting enrollment decisions in higher ed.
Transforming Spaces into Makerspaces and Innovation Hubs
What’s happening in campus libraries and common areas is exciting. More schools are creating spaces where students and faculty can produce, build, and explore: whether that’s recording a podcast, prototyping with 3D printers, or diving into VR simulations.
We’re supporting institutions that are turning traditional study spaces into innovation hubs. Arizona State University, for example, has set the bar with its advanced makerspace environments. And others like UNC are creating similar spaces that support collaboration, scholarship and digital creativity.
DISCOVER: How makerspaces are evolving into innovation hubs for student creation.
Elevating the Student Voice in Design
Another shift I love seeing is campuses involving students in the design of these spaces. When students help shape their learning environments, adoption improves and engagement increases. It’s a form of co-creation that aligns beautifully with today’s student-centered learning models.
That’s part of the reason why we always recommend starting with a quick audit and listening tour: what’s working, what’s missing and where can low-lift upgrades (like the Freshworks service platforms or better signage) create immediate wins?
How Higher Ed Institutions Can Begin Their Modernization Journey
Modernization doesn’t have to start big. We’ve seen tremendous progress from institutions that begin with a few smart investments: upgraded Wi-Fi, digital wayfinding, and modernized IT support tools. California Community Colleges, for example, used the CollegeBuys procurement program to roll out Freshworks across multiple campuses, transforming the student experience at scale with coordinated, cost-effective support.
Whether you’re working within a single department or across an entire system, collaborative procurement and phased implementation can unlock real momentum.
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