How Campus Sweepstakes Work

Similar to political sweepstakes but tailored for campus life, on-campus sweepstakes invite students to enter by providing their contact information in exchange for a chance to win a variety of enticing prizes. This information not only helps clubs and programs expand their reach but also allows campus initiatives to foster engagement and promote their offerings effectively.

Why Sweepstakes are Effective

Why are sweepstakes so effective? Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of sweepstakes for campus administrations and program directors.

• Engagement and Excitement: Sweepstakes create buzz and excitement around campus initiatives and events. Whether it’s a big game, a cultural performance, or a unique dining experience, students are eager to participate and potentially win memorable experiences.

• Awareness and Promotion: Sweepstakes serve as powerful promotional tools for campus initiatives. They generate visibility and interest in new buildings, classes, sports teams, and cultural events among the student body, faculty, and even alumni.

• Community Building: By participating in sweepstakes, students feel connected to campus life and each other. It fosters a sense of community and belonging, enhancing the overall student experience and campus culture.

• Data Collection: Gathering contact information allows clubs, programs, and campus initiatives to build databases of engaged students. This data can be used for targeted communication, event invitations, and future promotional campaigns.

Ideas for Sweepstakes Prizes

Thinking of hosting a sweepstakes aimed at raising awareness and gathering support for campus programs? Encourage participants to enter via scan-to-win sweepstakes, and include an opt-in to receive emails or text messages for news, updates, and activities.

• Sporting Events Giveaways: Imagine winning tickets to the championship game or a VIP experience at a basketball match. Sports event giveaways attract sports enthusiasts and casual fans alike, enhancing school spirit and supporting athletic programs.

• Arts and Cultural Events: Sweepstakes offering tickets to cultural performances, concerts, cultural guest speakers, or theater productions encourage students to explore the arts and cultural diversity on campus. These experiences broaden horizons and enrich campus life.

• Exclusive Dinners with Faculty or Celebrity Alumni: A dinner with esteemed faculty members or successful alumni not only provides networking opportunities but also inspires students with valuable insights and mentorship. These intimate gatherings foster meaningful connections and professional development.

• Free Campus Parking Pass: Practical prizes like free campus parking passes are highly valued by students. They alleviate financial burdens and enhance convenience, making campus life more enjoyable and accessible.

Sweepstakes Best Practices

A sweepstakes can spark lively discussions on campus initiatives, with students actively participating in activities related to sweepstakes entry, such as visiting a specific location on campus to scan-to-win, or to gain additional entries. Be sure to follow best practices:

• Define Objectives: Clearly outline your goals for the sweepstakes, whether it’s promoting a new initiative, boosting attendance at events, or increasing club memberships.

• Appealing Prizes: Choose prizes that resonate with your student body and align with campus interests and values. Whether it’s experiences, merchandise, or practical benefits like free parking, prizes should excite and motivate participation.

• Promotion Strategy: Utilize campus channels such as social media, campus newsletters, bulletin boards, and student organizations to promote the sweepstakes effectively. Encourage sharing and word-of-mouth promotion among students.

• Engagement Opportunities: Incorporate opportunities for students to engage with campus initiatives beyond entering the sweepstakes. Attendees at events, club meetings, or informational sessions can earn extra entries or exclusive perks.

• Follow-Up and Feedback: After the sweepstakes, follow up with participants to thank them for their involvement and provide updates on winners and upcoming events. Collect feedback to improve future sweepstakes and campus initiatives.

Campus sweepstakes play a vital role in enriching student life, promoting campus initiatives, and building a sense of community. Through sweepstakes participation, universities can engage students in meaningful ways, strengthen campus culture, and build lasting connections that extend beyond graduation. Consider running a sweepstakes this year. You just might help your students discover a new passion and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of campus life.

Still Have Questions?

Follow the practices above to improve client engagement and watch satisfaction rates soar! And check out our other articles for more advice on specific industries and use cases.