A PDL can come from outside of the process. A great example of that is when I have seen success on a number of occasions; occurring within the first few weeks of starting their program. There are a number of different strategies that can be used to ask for PDL, but it is our responsibility to determine how to implement these strategies and time our ask precisely. I love being able to "plant the seed". This means sharing an idea or thought with a prospective student to help them understand what you are there to do: help them. I find myself starting many conversations with saying just that: "As your advisor, I am here to help you and ultimately reach your goals", or "I am in the business of helping people, and I am excited to answer all of your questions". Further along in the process, I would say, "I am so glad I was able to help you enroll into the program", or "I knew you would be a great fit for our program, and I am glad to be a part of your journey and can help you along the way". When I ask at the end of my interview, and they aren't able to think of someone, I have to understand that is okay because I know that the seed has been planted. When that student starts school and is enjoying every minute of what I described to them their experience would be like, I am able to say "Now that you have started school and have had a great experience, who do you know that we can both help move forward with their education, or that you would like to share this experience with". Overall, letting them see that we aren't just here for the numbers, that we are here for them, their friends, their family, and experiencing what we have to offer in our programs is worth so much to the student. This is what ultimately earns your PDL.
Regards,
Jacob Sandoval