Bellevue Admissions Counselor Builds Life-Changing Connections

Considering going back to school can bring on a whirlwind of emotions and fears, but Michele Yates has made it her mission to ease the transition. The Bellevue University senior admissions counselor has helped students reach their goals at her alma mater since 2012, building on the skills she gained through several years in sales and marketing.

“I truly enjoy my job,” she said. “I enjoy talking.to people, connecting with them and helping them make big decisions.”

Finding her Place at Bellevue University a Second Time

Yates graduated from Bellevue University, in her hometown of Bellevue, Neb., in 2006. “Bellevue’s my home,” she said. “I’m a Bellevue girl through and through.”

She put her marketing management degree to work, and she once again turned to Bellevue University when she decided she needed a change. A career test offered by the University’s Career Services department indicated a role as an admissions counselor would be a good fit. As luck would have it, she found an admissions role at the University itself.

Today, she combines her past experiences to exceed students’ expectations. “I help them realize their dreams,” she said. “Any time you’re in a sales role you’re in training, connecting with different people in different ways. I’ve taken all of that and found what works for me.”

This approach certainly makes an impact. “To feel heard and valued over the phone isn’t easy but Michele did that and more! I could honestly talk to her for hours,” said a student she recently helped.

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“Michele stands out as an admissions counselor because of the genuine relationships she builds with her students,” said Senior Director of Admissions Alexis Perea. “She has an incredible ability to make every student feel heard, supported and confident in their journey to Bellevue University.”

Serving Students with Compassion

A large part of Yates’ role involves guiding students through potentially challenging decisions and conversations. This includes helping students choose an educational program, select classes and navigate financial concerns. Many students also question how they will succeed if they were not able to complete a previous degree program.

“Emotions are going to come out,” Yates said. “We talk about having a support system and I am part of that for them. I listen to them and tell them to call me when they have questions.”

She also makes sure that students are comfortable enough to share all their concerns. “When you are your true, authentic self, it makes you more relaxed and students can feel that,” Yates said. “It helps them open up and ask questions.”

“Michele takes the time to understand each individual’s goals and circumstances, and that personal approach shines through in every interaction,” Perea said. “Her professionalism and empathy create an experience that leaves a lasting impression on the students she works with and reflects the standard of care we strive for across our team.”

Delivering the Highest Level of Personal Care

Yates said her focus on student needs is something unique to the Bellevue University admissions process. “Our whole team is excellent at making sure everyone is welcome and understood,” she said.

Throughout its history of catering to learners of all backgrounds, the University has developed this personalized experience approach. “Bellevue University’s admissions process is unique because it is designed to meet students where they are, rather than expecting them to fit a one‑size‑fits‑all,” Perea said. “We emphasize accessibility, flexibility in program and format, and personalized guidance from dedicated admission counselors who help students navigate their options and feel supported from first contact through enrollment.”

In fact, the University recently reached its highest Net Promoter Score since beginning to collect comprehensive student feedback in 2011. This score measures how likely students are to recommend the University and whether students met their goals.

“It’s an amazing place to work. It shows through in the way you help your students. They say ‘I can tell you love what you do’,” Yates said.”I feel valued, supported and appreciated so I’m able to provide genuine confident care for every student.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the admissions process at Bellevue University?

A. The Bellevue University admissions process is personalized and student‑focused. Each applicant works directly with an Admissions Counselor who helps review requirements, explore programs, evaluate transfer credits, and guide the student from application through enrollment.

Q. Is Bellevue University accredited?

A. Yes. Bellevue University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). This accreditation ensures academic quality, employer recognition, and transferability of credits.

Q. Does Bellevue University have open admissions?

A. Yes. Bellevue University uses an open admissions model. Admissions decisions focus on student readiness and goals, not on standardized tests, in order to make higher education accessible to motivated learners from all backgrounds.

Q. How do I apply to Bellevue University?

A. Students can apply online to Bellevue University in just a few steps:

• Complete the online application
• Submit prior college or high school transcripts (if applicable)
• Connect with an Admissions Counselor to finalize next steps

Many programs have no application fee.

Q. What does an Admissions Counselor do?

A. At Bellevue, Admissions Counselors are one‑on‑one guides through the enrollment process. They answer questions, explain degree options and formats, and help students make informed decisions about returning to school—all with a focus on individual goals and circumstances.

Q. How does Bellevue University support students after enrollment?

A. After admission, students are supported by Student Coaches and a full student support network. Student Coaches help with academic planning, staying on track, and connecting students to tutoring, advising, and other resources throughout their degree program.