Project Description

The objective of this project was to create an engaging welcome kit for Drexel University's online programs that fostered Drexel pride and encouraged accepted students to confirm their enrollment. Our biggest challenge was to design something that made our online students feel just as welcomed, and every-bit as part of the Drexel community as their on-campus counterparts. We accomplished our goal with a thoughtful physical package that evoked a sense of school spirit and excitement. Drexel has built a robust online learning community, yet at times it can be difficult to visualize those interactions and relationships that exist only online. This package includes playful messaging and personal touches to enforce the human element of online learning and the connection to a growing, vibrant campus in Philadelphia, PA.

We chose to base the theme of the package around Drexel University’€™s unique mascot: Mario the Magnificent, a dragon. The welcome kit was positioned as a field guide that would help students through their transition into becoming an actual dragon as they embark on a journey to further their education.

The dragon-scale-covered box opens to reveal the contents neatly tied up with twine. Once untied, a personalized letter from the Dean welcomes the student and the field guide provides tips and resources for studying online. When the letter and field guide are removed, a recessed area containing Drexel goodies is revealed. The notebook, candy and stickers act as keepsakes and fun ways to show Drexel pride and remind accepted students to complete their enrollment.