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Behavioral Economics and Tuition: Signals that Shape Perceived Value [S4:E9]

Christina Dotchin
September 17, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Manoj Thomas, Cornell University’s Sabanci Professor of Management and Marketing and Associate Dean of New York City Initiatives. A leading behavioral scientist, Manoj explores how unconscious mental processes shape consumer decisions, from pricing psychology to the subtle cues that influence how we perceive value.

We discuss his research on behavioral economics and pricing strategy, and connect these insights to independent school strategic enrollment management. Drawing on his expertise as both a scholar and engaging educator, Manoj offers a fascinating perspective on the psychology of decision-making and what it means for independent schools navigating questions of affordability, value, and perception.

EMA members can access the full report, An Independent School Education: Family Perceptions of Value and Affordability, and dig deeper into the results on the accompanying data dashboard by logging into EMA's Community: community.enrollment.org.

EMA Members can view the full report in our Member Community.

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Christina Dotchin
September 17, 2025

Christina Dotchin is the Vice President of Member Relations at the Enrollment Management Association (EMA). Christina oversees EMA's membership, business development, professional development, and marketing teams. This includes programs for over 1,200 independent schools and over 20,000 members. Before joining EMA in 2016, Christina served as the director of admission and financial aid at Proctor Academy (New Hampshire). During her 11 years at Proctor Academy, she also served as girls’ varsity ice hockey head coach, student advisor, and dorm parent. Christina holds a B.A. in English, with a minor in education, from Colby College and a Masters of Public Administration from the University of New Hampshire.

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