The US boasts of a vast student population; this includes approximately 20 million students. These 20 million students reportedly have a disposable income of $417 billion. These figures are rapidly increasing day by day. Therefore, it makes sense that this opens attractive avenues for companies who are selling products and services that are geared towards college students. These products include furniture, clothes, and books. Additionally, there are many companies who strive to market their new gizmos, like smartphones, tablets and more.

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This huge student audience is a highly prospective one for many marketers. It is every marketer's dream to garner the attention of this audience and direct it towards their products and services. Although the huge number of students is also a plus, their long-lasting brand loyalty is also a positive. The odds are that the students will remain loyal to the brand, even after they have left their college campuses.

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The Big Question

College students are exposed to the most varied networks. They are connected to the television, the radio, social media sites, campus newsletters, friends, peers and even more. What, then, is so challenging for marketers to capture this very prospective and highly exposed audience? The usual marketing efforts do not work. Why do so many companies employ college marketing companies to design special marketing campaigns?

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What Makes College Students Different?

Students are very different from other groups. Mass advertising campaigns may fail to attract their attention to the client's products, brands and services.

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Here are the ways to attract the attention of the college crowd.

• Freebies are always welcome: Social events and parties are a great place to reach out to student groups. Many students, including the most influential ones are almost always present on these days. Distributing branded products compels them to use it. One good thing about students is that they swag about the brand they use. However, marketers must aim at creating a positive influence to save themselves from negative remarks flooding the social media.

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• Discuss It Over Coffee: Coffee is an essential ingredient for many college students. Coffee, and coffee shops are a part of campus life. Moreover, many students are more relaxed and perceptive in this environment.

Therefore, it makes sense for marketers to spread their message over coffee. Products publicized in the cafeteria and coffee mugs will not go unnoticed.

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• Peer-To-Peer Marketing: Nothing influences students more than other students. Marketers can spread the message on-campus through the word of mouth of students. Marketers are actively employing students as their brand representatives on college campuses. These representatives organize and participate in events, campaigns and other occasions to publicize the product. Additionally, the right student ambassadors will perform their duties with pleasure, as there are many perks that come with being a student ambassador.

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Students know the ins and outs of campus life. Their knowledge of student life on campus is relevant, current and personal. However, marketers must employ students who are influential, knowledgeable, and compelling. The student ambassadors should have a vast network and enjoy socializing. Moreover, they should be capable of engaging their audience in a fun and memorable way.