Boosting Enrollment with Personalized AI Experiences

Primacy partnered with a private liberal arts college to launch an interactive, OpenAI-powered web app that boosted site traffic, sparked conversation at college fairs, and helped reframe the school as a modern, tech-forward institution. In a high-stakes admissions environment, the custom AI experience delivered a personalized, curiosity-driving experience that turned attention into action.

  • Application Development
  • Creative
  • Digital Strategy
  • Education
  • Experience

The Challenge

Facing the enrollment cliff, and the pressure to differentiate

As a small, private college, our client found themselves at a critical enrollment crossroads. Applications were slowing. Yield periods were stretching longer. And prospective students—overwhelmed by options and financial uncertainty—needed more than just another viewbook or campus tour to stay engaged.

They needed a way to remain top-of-mind during the financial aid window, deepen engagement with admitted students, and send a bold signal: we’re not your typical private college.

The challenge? Stand out, stay relevant, and spark deeper student interest—without relying on traditional, overused tactics.
 

The Insight

Meet students where they are with an experience worth sharing

To keep prospective students warm and connected during a critical decision period, the client had to create a wow moment. Something fun, creative, and sticky. Something that showcased the school’s personality and values while offering real value in return.

The strategic insight was clear: position the college not as a follower, but as an innovator. Move from being perceived as an “undifferentiated private college” to being seen as an “utterly unique embracer of technology.”

The solution? Build a shareable, personalized, AI-powered experience that speaks directly to students’ interests and gives them a peek into life at the college.

gustiebot flow

The Work

A personalized AI web app that turns curiosity into connection

Inspired by Primacy’s award-winning JingleBot, a unique Bot was built as a 5-step visual wizard experience that allowed prospective students to “build their college life.” It delivered customized, dynamic outputs they could download, share, or use as a conversation starter at events, turning passive audiences into active participants.

Key Features:

  • Custom 5-step wizard: Students selected lifestyle and interest preferences to shape their unique college experience.
  • Generative AI Output: Based on selections, the bot generated a personalized story reflecting what life at the college could look like.
  • Visual-first design: Emphasized image-forward results ideal for sharing or saving.
  • Personal image upload & safety customization: Optional features made it easy to personalize while maintaining safety and accessibility standards.
  • Optimized for social engagement: The output was designed to be screenshot-worthy—boosting earned reach.
     
gustie screens

The Results

AI meets ROI: Engagement gains with a strategic edge

From college fairs to admitted student outreach, the GustieBot quickly became a centerpiece in the school’s modern enrollment toolkit. It did more than just entertain; it drove real outcomes.

  • 17% increase in site traffic following the Bot’s launch
  • Boosted engagement across digital channels and events
  • Strengthened perception of the college as a forward-thinking, student-first institution

By blending content, design, and AI into one seamless, playful experience, GustieBot helped the college break from the pack—and make meaningful connections with prospective students when it mattered most.