College Admissions Insider

Episode 100: The Future of Higher Education

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Since 2020, we've pulled back the curtain on all things admissions, sharing expert advice for your college journey.

Today, we're celebrating our 100th episode of College Admissions Insider by tackling our biggest topic yet: the state and future of higher education.

What better guest to invite than someone who's dedicated their career to championing lifelong learning? That person is John Bravman, who currently serves as the 17th president of Bucknell University.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

When you visit campus for a preview session and guided tour, chat with our student ambassadors, or experience an interactive virtual tour of campus, you'll have a front-row seat as you explore this place we call home.

This combination of in-person and virtual visit offerings means you can learn more about Bucknell in the way that fits you and your family best.

Episode 99: College Planning Timeline: 12th Grade

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0500

Senior year is finally here, and with it comes all of the excitement and nervousness about what comes next.

For students with their eyes set on college, now is the time to get to work on submitting your very best applications to your dream schools.

In this last episode in our College Planning Timeline series, Becca and Brooke cover tips, tricks and application insights for high school seniors.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 98: College Planning Timeline: 11th Grade

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0500

When it comes to the college search process, it can feel like all eyes are on junior year.

From the classes you take and the grades you earn, to the steps you take to explore colleges and universities, your junior year in high school might be the most essential.

In this episode of our college planning timeline series, we're offering advice for making the most of it.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 97: College Planning Timeline: 10th Grade

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0500

After nearly 100 episodes, we've learned that it's never too early to start planning for college.

In our College Planning Timeline series, Becca and Brooke are offering a step-by-step action plan to take you from 9th through 12th grade and beyond.

Today, we'll cover tips and best practices for students who are sophomores in high school.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 96: College Planning Timeline: 9th Grade

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Applying to college may seem like one big step toward your future, but you'll be more successful — and less stressed — if you instead see that journey as dozens of smaller steps.

In the next four episodes of College Admissions Insider, Becca and Brooke will be walking you through our college planning timeline, offering a step by step action plan to take you from 9th grade through 12th grade and beyond.

Today we’ll cover tips and best practices for students who are in their first year in high school.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 95: Artificial Intelligence in College Admissions

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0500

If there's one thing that's always constant, it's change. Nowhere is that more true than in the field of technology. Like many industries, higher education is transforming in the midst of the newest tech revolution: Artificial intelligence.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll explore some of the ways colleges are implementing AI assistance, how that impacts the experience for students and families, and what it means for the future of higher ed.

Our guest is Emily Smith, Principal Vice President of Partner Success at CollegeVine — a company that helps colleges and universities optimize their operations with AI.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 94: Demonstrated Interest

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Submitting your application is the ultimate way you'll tell a college you want in. But that's just the end of the story. In the years before you apply, many admissions offices will be on the lookout for something called demonstrated interest.

In this episode, we talk about why demonstrated interest has become increasingly important in recent years, what counts as meaningful engagement, and what students should and shouldn't do as they try to stand out.

Our guest is Kevin Mathes '07, vice president of enrollment management and dean of admissions at Bucknell University.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 93: Crushing the College Interview

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:00:00 -0400

The application is the main way colleges and universities get to know you as an applicant. But it's not the only way. At some schools, students are invited to share their story in-person through an admissions interview.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll learn why interviews are valuable in the admissions process, what you can do to practice and prepare, and how building interviewing skills can benefit you in the future.

Our guest is Alison Slater, founder of Interview Prep, which provides personalized coaching for high school students to help them make the most of college interviews. (Use code BUCKNELL10 for 10% off coaching booked in 2025.)

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 92: Attending College Far From Home, Pt. 2

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 15:00:00 -0400

For some students, college is just a short drive away. For others, it means crossing time zones, states or even coasts.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we’re diving into what it’s really like to attend a college far from home. From culture shock to homesickness to learning how to fly solo (literally and figuratively), we’re sharing stories and insights that can help you decide just how far you’re willing — or excited — to go.

Our guests are Bucknell students Clara Carroll, a senior from Sacramento, Calif., and Terian Williams, a sociology major originally from Atlanta. Both have first-hand experience navigating college life far from home, and they’re here to talk travel, campus life, friendships and how going the distance helped them grow.

🎙️ In this episode, you’ll hear about:

How Clara and Terian approached their college searches and landed at Bucknell.
What it’s like to make cross-country moves — and the family conversations behind them.
The travel logistics and support available to far-from-home students.
How students stay connected to family while building community on campus.
Cultural surprises, homesickness and the unexpected joys of a new environment.
The financial and emotional considerations of attending college far from home.
Why going outside your comfort zone might be the key to discovering your full potential.

Whether you’re considering schools nearby or nationwide, this episode offers candid advice and plenty of encouragement for students ready to explore beyond their hometowns.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 91: Attending College Far From Home, Pt. 1

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:00:00 -0400

For some students, their dream school might be right down the road. While for others, it's a road trip, train or plane ride away.

On today's episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll talk about attending school far from home, what that means for your college search, and more importantly, your college experience.

Our guest is with my colleague Cameron Walsh, a regional associate director of admissions at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Links:

Episode 90: How to Use Outcomes in Your College Search

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:00:00 -0400

When so much of the college search is about what you'll do during university, it can be easy to push off what comes after until, well, after.

But knowing what graduates go on to accomplish can be a powerful tool when deciding which schools are on your list. In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're diving into outcomes.

We'll discover how universities manage and share outcomes data, the best time to start thinking about careers, how parents and families can best support their students' post-graduate goals and more.

Our guest is Pam Keiser, executive director of career services at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 89: Building Your College List

Sun, 18 May 2025 22:00:00 -0400

Whether you're just now thinking about college or have been visiting campuses for months, there's a step in the college process that all students arrive at: Building a college list.

With thousands of colleges and universities in the U.S., choosing the ones you'd like to attend can feel like a tall order. Good news is you don't have to do it alone.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll discuss how to find schools that match your interests, how to organize the colleges that make your list, how parents can play a supporting role and more.

Our guest is Stacey Hewitt, a school counselor at Downingtown STEM Academy in eastern Pennsylvania.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Minisode: Waitlists

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Spring is officially here, and with it, those long-awaited responses from college admissions.

You may think there's only two options. “Congrats, you're in,” or, “We regret to inform you.” But plenty of students will receive a third message, offering them a spot on the waitlist.

In this minisode, we'll chat about the most important tips for navigating that outcome.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Links:

Episode 88: Community-Based Organizations

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0500

From Google to mobile apps to podcasts like this, there are countless resources out there to help students find the school that's right for them and craft a strong application.

Many students might find that the ultimate college support is right in their own backyard. On today's episode of College Admissions Insider, we're exploring community-based organizations.

We'll define what community-based organizations are, who they serve and the difference they can make in a student's admissions journey.

Our guest is Adam Navarro-Jusino, associate dean of admissions for access & outreach at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 87: Pre-College Programs

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0500

Websites, brochures and social media can only tell you so much about what a college is like. While visiting in person is an excellent way to get a feel for campus life, there are even more immersive opportunities.

Today on College Admissions Insider, we're diving into pre-college programs. We'll learn what pre-college programs offer prospective students, what the experience looks like at Bucknell, and how it can help you decide where you'd like to attend.

Our guests are Carrine Phillips, senior assistant director of admissions at Bucknell, and Elena Mohan '27.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 86: Tackling the Application Essay

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0500

Tell us about a challenge you faced and how you overcame it.

Reflect on a moment when your actions made a difference for others.

Describe one of your passions and why it lights you up.

These aren't just ideas for your next journal entry. They're prompts you might see when you sit down to write your college essay — one of the only places on the application where students use their own voice to tell an admissions committee about themselves.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we chat about crafting a strong outline, how to keep your reader engaged, mistakes to avoid in the essay and more.

Our guest is Jennifer Hilborn, a former high school English teacher and current admissions reader at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 85: Breaking down the FAFSA and CSS Profile

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0500

There's no shortage of acronyms in higher education, but perhaps none are more important for prospective students than FAFSA and CSS.

For students and families seeking financial aid, these are the essential forms you'll need to submit. Today we'll break down these financial aid forms, the differences between them and some tips for using the FAFSA and CSS to secure aid at the schools on your list.

Our guest is Erin Wolfe, Director of Financial Aid at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Minisode: Minimum Requirements for College

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500

In this minisode of College Admissions Insider, Brooke and Becca dive into minimum requirements. You'll learn what minimum requirements are, how they might differ between schools, and ways that you can ensure you're on the right preparation track for college.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

(Re-air) Episode 5: Writing a Killer College Application Essay

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

At schools like Bucknell that receive thousands of applications every year, there’s a good chance some applicants will have similar grades, academic rigor, and extracurricular involvement.

But there's a place where applicants can stand out — something guaranteed to be found in their application and no other. We're talking about the college essay — an applicant's best opportunity to show colleges who they are.

Writing a great college application essay doesn't have to be an intimidating process.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell share proven tips to help students craft a killer college application essay.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 84: A Parent Perspective from Admissions Professionals

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0400

While it may be the student who gets admitted to college in the end, they aren't the only ones with a hand in the process.

From those initial Google searches to campus visits and beyond, parents and families are discovering and learning right alongside their student. On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're taking a closer look at the parent and family experience.

We'll talk about the role that parents and families play in the college search process.

Our guests are two parents who also happen to be admissions professionals at Bucknell. Lara Schmitt ’20, P’26 is assistant director of admissions for access & outreach, and Brett Basom P’22 is associate director for international recruitment.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 83: Attending a 4-year College Abroad

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0400

No two college journeys are the same. For some, it might mean attending college right in their hometown, while others might travel halfway or even to the other side of the country for school.

Then, there are those who take their education beyond borders. At the request of one of our listeners, in this episode of College Admissions Insider, we are exploring options for attending college outside of the US.

We'll learn where students can begin researching schools, how admissions can differ from country to country, what the day-to-day learning experience might look like, and more.

Our guest is Chris Pluta is Director of College Counseling at the United Nations International School.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Minisode: What to Pack

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400

After choosing where to enroll, the next major decision in the college process is, “What is going to live with you in your home away from home?”

In this College Admissions Insider minisode, we're sharing some tips and considerations to keep in mind when packing for your first year of college.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 82: Inside the Mind of an Application Reader

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

If you've been listening to College Admissions Insider for a while, the title of this episode might ring a bell. In some of our early episodes, we invited real admissions counselors here to talk about how reading applications really works.

Today, we're doing it all again. We'll be chatting about the process front to back — and then some.

Our guest is Kevin Mathes '07, associate vice president and dean of admissions at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 81: Tips for Choosing a Major

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Your grades, extracurriculars and essay responses paint a picture of who you are. But there's another part of your application that colleges and universities pay special attention to: your intended major.

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're providing tips on identifying the primary discipline you'll study throughout your four years. We'll discuss when students should start thinking about their major, what your intended major tells a university and how it factors into the admissions process.

Our guest is Jill Medina, senior associate dean of admissions at Bucknell.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Find a transcript for this episode.

Episode 80: Making the Most of a Visit

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0400

There's only so much you can learn about a school from Google. One of the best ways to get to know a college is to experience it for yourself.

An in-person visit can push a college into dream school territory, or send it falling off your list entirely. In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're exploring how you make the most of a college visit from the options available to setting it up and beyond.

Our guest is Chris Rowe, admissions specialist for daily campus visitation programs at Bucknell.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

(Re-air) Episode 19: Planning a College Visit Road Trip

Mon, 20 May 2024 08:00:00 -0400

When exploring colleges, there's only so much you can do online. At some point, you have to see these places for yourself — all five, 10 or 30 schools on your list.

Unless a family member has unlimited vacation days (or a teleportation machine), the only way to realistically visit multiple schools in a reasonable amount of time is by planning a college visit road trip.

But how do you organize one of these info-gathering trips? How can you keep all these visits straight in your head? And what's the best way to maximize that family time as you travel together from destination to destination?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we provide a road map for success. Our guest is Alison Almasian, director of college counseling at the Taft School, a private boarding school in Watertown, Conn., Before that, she spent 22 years in college admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 79: Pursuing the Arts In College

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Maybe you sketch in your free time, have a leading role in community theater production or dance in a semi-professional company. Whatever your arts interest, there are abundant opportunities to pursue it in college.

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're chatting with two current Bucknell students about their involvement in the arts. We'll talk about how they found opportunities on campus to get involved, what their activities look like and more.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 78: How I Chose A College, Student Roundtable

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 22:00:00 -0400

In our last College Admissions Insider minisode, we shared some advice for weighing your admission offers and making a decision. But that was just the tip of the iceberg.

There's no one better to walk high school seniors through the process than students who were in their shoes not too long ago.

In this episode, we've invited our very own first-year college students to share how they chose the school that was best for them. We'll talk about their journey from applying to deciding, as well as some advice they have for current college-bound students.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Minisode: How To Decide

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0400

So far on College Admissions Insider, we've taken you through each step of the application process — from exploring what schools are out there, to making a decision on where you will be applying, and getting ready to submit your very best applications.

Now, we've made it to spring and its decision season.

It's an exciting time, but it can also be a bit stressful. Is there a magic formula to figuring out which offer you'll accept? Brooke and Becca walk you through how to decide.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

(Re-air) Episode 35: What to Do While You Wait for a Decision

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500

While search engines provide millions of answers in less than a second, there is one life-changing question for which the answer doesn't arrive as quickly: Did I get in?

When you want to know whether you’ve been accepted into your college of choice, things don't happen quickly. In fact, it may be months between the moment you press “submit” on your application and the day that acceptance notification appears in your virtual or physical mailbox.

So what do you do in the meantime? In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we’ll provide a few answers to that crucial question right here, right now. We’ll share tips for making the most of the time leading up to decision release day and advice for how to mitigate anxiety while you wait.

Our guest is Jill Medina, Bucknell’s senior associate dean of admissions. Jill has more than 25 years of work in higher education under her belt, and she plays a role in the acceptance process at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 77: Academic Disciplines, Social Sciences

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0500

In the past few episodes of College Admissions Insider, we've covered academic disciplines one by one.

So far, we've covered sciences, mathematics, the arts, humanities, engineering and management. We encourage you to jump back and listen to those episodes if you haven't yet. Today, we're rounding out this series with the social sciences.

On this episode, we'll get to know the kinds of majors available in these disciplines, what management looks like in college, and the careers you can break into post-graduation.

Our guest is Michelle Johnson, associate Dean of faculty in the social sciences at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 76: Academic Disciplines, Management

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0500

For the next little while on College Admissions Insider, we're doing a deep dive into academic disciplines one episode at a time.

So far, we've covered sciences, mathematics, the arts, humanities and engineering. We encourage you to jump back and listen to those episodes if you haven't yet. Today, we're exploring management.

On this episode, we'll get to know the kinds of majors available in these disciplines, what management looks like in college, and the careers you can break into post-graduation.

Our guest is Matt Bailey, a chair in business administration and professor of analytics and operations management at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Minisode: How To Make the Most of Your Winter Break

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0500

In this College Admissions Insider minisode, Brooke and Becca are diving in on their top recommendations for how college-bound students can best spend their last winter break of high school.

You might be super excited for this break from learning — and from your college applications. But there are plenty of little ways that you can keep progress going on the college process.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 74: Academic Disciplines, Engineering

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0500

For the next little while on College Admissions Insider, we're doing a deep dive into academic disciplines one episode at a time.

So far, we've covered sciences, mathematics, the arts, and humanities. We encourage you to jump back and listen to those episodes if you haven't yet. Today, we're exploring engineering.

On this episode, we'll get to know the kinds of majors available in these disciplines, what engineering look like in college, and the careers you can break into post-graduation.

Our guest is Erin Jablonski, associate dean of Bucknell's College of Engineering. Welcome to the podcast.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 73: Academic Disciplines, Humanities

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0500

For the next little while on College Admissions Insider, we're doing a deep dive into academic disciplines one episode at a time.

So far, we've covered sciences and mathematics. We encourage you to jump back and listen to that episode if you haven't yet. Today, we're chatting about the humanities.

On this episode, we'll get to know the kinds of majors available in these disciplines, what the humanities look like in college, and the careers you can break into post-graduation.

Our guest is Anthony Stewart, associate dean of faculty in the College of Arts & Sciences at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 72: Academic Disciplines, Sciences and Mathematics

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0400

There are so many important choices you'll make in college: which hall to live in, what to eat, how many extracurriculars to join. But most crucial is the decision of what you'll study.

For the next little while on College Admissions Insider, we'll be doing a deep dive into academic disciplines one episode at a time. This episode is dedicated to the sciences and mathematics.

We'll get to know the kinds of majors available in these disciplines, what math and science studies look like in college, and the careers you can break into post-graduation.

Our guest is Le Paliulis, associate dean of faculty for Bucknell's College of Arts & Sciences and professor of biology.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

(Re-air) Episode 12: A Guide to Early Decision and Early Action

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 16:00:00 -0400

Waiting is the most agonizing part of the college admissions process. You send off your materials and then keep clicking that refresh button until the decision arrives (or your phone dies).

But for a select group of applicants, that waiting period is significantly reduced. These are the students who applied Early Decision or Early Action to their top-choice school or schools.

These students could get a decision as early as December instead of the following March or April — a huge relief, to be sure. Plus, many schools admit Early Decision applicants at a higher rate than Regular Decision applicants.

But before you click submit on an early application, you'll want to make sure you've gone over all the pros and cons for doing so.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, Dean of Admissions Kevin Mathes ’07 covers everything you need to know about Early Decision and Early Action.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment, or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

(Re-air) Episode 31: How I Crafted a Killer Application Essay

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0400

In other words, it hooked you quickly, and it did so by showing, not telling.

What if you applied this same strategy to application essays? In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll share how to create an application essay that an admissions office won't be able to stop reading.

We invited two Bucknell students who wrote killer application essays to share a little about their process. They'll also read an excerpt from the essays, to give you an idea of how they turned their unique story into unforgettable prose.

Our guests are Meghan Tran, a management student from New Jersey, and Kelley Francis, an arts & sciences student from Colorado.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 71: Pursuing College Athletics

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Are you wondering how to take your high school athletics game to the collegiate level? Determining whether you should seek to compete in NCAA Division I, II or III sports or continue your involvement at the recreational level can be confusing, but we’re here to help you make the best decision for yourself, based upon your level of commitment and investment.

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're exploring the different ways students can pursue athletics in college.

Our guest is Natasha Wilson, Senior Associate Director of Athletics at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 70: Earning and Applying Transfer Credits

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 14:00:00 -0400

Whether you're looking to graduate early, get a taste of college level learning or simply challenge yourself with an advanced class, taking an AP, IB or dual enrollment course could take some work off your plate once you get to college.

Courses like these often earn students transfer credits, which can be applied to your college transcript and count towards certain required university courses — all before you’ve even arrived.

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll further define what transfer credits are, how you get them and the process of submitting them to the school of your choice.

Our guest is Sarah Paris, transfer records coordinator at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 69: Sending Your Student to College

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Life is full of firsts, from our first steps to our first car, to the first time we leave home to attend the college of our choice.

But no one faces life's milestones alone. Experiencing every new phase alongside us are the family members who nurture and cheer us on. This episode of College Admissions Insider is for those family members who are preparing to send their student off into their next new phase: college.

We'll hear advice for navigating the emotions, shifting dynamics and increasing independence that comes with your child's first year away.

Our guests are John and Son Huang, two Bucknell parents who gone through the college transition several times with several children.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

(Re-air) Episode 18: College Housing: What You Need to Know Before Applying

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0400

College is more than a place to learn, meet interesting people and grow. For most students, it's also where you'll live — perhaps for four years of your life.

Young people who may be accustomed to living in their own room at home will suddenly be sharing a room (and bathroom) with others.

That fact makes finding the right housing fit just as important as finding the right academic fit. So how do you do it?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll swing those doors wide open. Our guests are Stephen Apanel, Bucknell's Director of Housing Services, and Ashley Hubler, Bucknell's Assistant Director of Housing Services.

Listen as we discuss the benefits of off-campus and on-campus housing, specialty housing options like Affinity Houses, and roommate selection.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment, or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 67: Community Engagement in College

Tue, 30 May 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Maybe you've spent years volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, helped establish a community garden in a food desert or raised a significant amount of money for a medical organization close to your heart. These kinds of passions can follow you to college, where you can continue to get involved and even receive funding to do it.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we are talking about how you can translate your passion for service into amazing college experiences. We'll cover the different types of engagement opportunities you might find at college, how to best present your past service activities on your application and how you can even receive scholarships to continue your engagement work as a college student.

Our guests are two Bucknell staff members: Lynn Pierson, director of Bucknell's Office of Civic Engagement; and assistant director of admissions Carrine Phillips.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 66: Choosing (and Transferring From) Community College

Mon, 08 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

There's no singular path when it comes to continuing your education. For many, heading to a four-year residential university is a natural leap. For others, pursuing trade school or other professional training might be the next logical move.

Then there's the option of community college, which gives students the opportunity to ease into college life, explore a variety of academic disciplines and earn a degree—all in preparation for the next big step.

This episode of College Admissions Insider is all about the role community college can play in a student's educational journey. We're chatting about how community college differs from four-year universities, why a student might consider attending this type of school, tips for transferring into a bachelor's degree program and more.

Our guests are two staff members from Bucknell's Office of Admissions: associate dean of admissions and director of partnerships Caro Mercado and admissions counselor Aries Contreras ’22.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 65: What To Do if You’re Waitlisted

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0400

By now, high school seniors have probably received the college admissions letters they've been waiting for. While you may have gotten into one, two or several of the colleges on your list, you may have also received a different kind of decision: one that's placed you on the waitlist.

Many colleges take advantage of waitlists in the admissions process, giving certain applicants who weren't admitted in the first round a shot at still attending the institution.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're peeling back the curtain on how college waitlists actually work – from the factors that might lead to being waitlisted to how students can navigate Decision Day while awaiting an offer.

Our guest is Candace Leake, associate director of admissions for access & outreach at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

(Re-air) You Got Your Acceptance Letter — Now What?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0400

You researched every fact and figure about your choice institutions, wrote and rewrote the perfect admissions essay, and connected with everyone from current students to admissions counselors — all in hopes of receiving that life-changing notification that says, “Congratulations! You’ve been admitted.”

Well done! You should be quite proud. But after the confetti settles to the floor, there's still work to be done.

Receiving an acceptance letter on Decision Day is far from the end of the process. Amid the excitement, celebration and relief are numerous decisions to make and actions to take to secure your spot in the incoming class. In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll cover what lies ahead after you've been admitted.

How long do you have to make that final decision? How do you officially enroll? And what tips can you use to decide which of the schools you've been admitted to is ultimately right for you?

Our guests are Becca Haupt Aldredge and Lauren Furman, who both serve as senior assistant directors of admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 63: College Access & Success

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Succeeding in college is about much more than what you accomplish in the classroom. Truly thriving as a student means growing through self-discovery, intellectual exploration, community relationships and more.

That kind of success requires an ecosystem of support that not only encourages a student throughout their journey but opens up doors for them along the way.

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're taking a look at how universities are increasing access and enhancing support for college-bound students. We'll discuss what access and success programs can look like on a college campus where prospective students can find support and why expanding access to college is so crucial.

Our guest is Lisa Keegan, Bucknell University's vice president for enrollment management.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 62: What to Look for in an Arts & Sciences Education

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0500

In our last couple of episodes, we spent time chatting with engineering and management faculty about what students should be looking for in a business or engineering education. But what about all of the majors beyond and in between?

You might find diverse disciplines like anthropology, neuroscience, studio art and many more housed together in a College of Arts & Sciences. At some schools, this college may be where the majority of students find themselves studying, discovering and exploring.

In this episode, you'll hear from faculty from a range of disciplines on what to look for in an arts and sciences education. We'll chat about major and class offerings, research opportunities, career preparation and more.

Our guests are three faculty members from across Bucknell's own College of Arts & Sciences: Religious Studies Professor John Penniman, Studio Art Professor Eddy Lopez; and Professor Marie Pizzorno, who teaches within the biology, cell biology and biochemistry programs.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 61: What to Look for in an Engineering School

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500

What comes to mind when you think of the word engineering? A hardhat and paper blueprints, a computer with complex modeling software, or maybe a bunch of wires, gears and other technical parts? Engineering can involve all of those things and so much more.

When looking for the engineering major, you might want to study in college, you might find that they're grouped together in a school of engineering within a larger university. On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're diving deep into this educational track — from the types of professions the engineering field includes to what a general engineering curriculum might look like and far beyond

Our guests are three faculty members from Bucknell’s own College of Engineering: Biomedical Engineering Professor, Eric Kennedy; Mechanical and Chemical Engineering Professor, Wendy Wright; and Chemical Engineering Professor Kat Wakabayashi.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 60: What to Look for In A Business School

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0500

With myriad majors and courses to choose from, the possibilities of a college education are limitless. But these programs don't exist on islands all on their own.

Oftentimes, you'll find similar majors grouped together in colleges or schools within a larger university — like a school of medicine, or a college of art and design, or a school of business. On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're talking all about that last type: a school of business or management.

We'll cover different educational approaches of various business or management schools; how students interested in pursuing careers in business can get a sense of what majors appeal to them; what high schoolers can do right now to get a head start, and more.

Our guests are Melissa Intindola, associate professor of management and organizations, and James Lawson, assistant professor of accounting.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 59: Undergraduate Research, Pt. II: Student Roundtable

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0500

We believe that there is no limit to what you can accomplish with an innovative outlook and a curious spirit. But you don't have to just take our word for it.

On this podcast, we look for every opportunity to let real college students do the talking — which is why we're inviting students from all three of Bucknell's colleges to tell you about their experiences conducting research as undergrads.

In this follow-up to our last episode on undergraduate research, we're asking current students about how they got involved in research, what it's like working side by side with faculty, why they recommend research to incoming undergrads and more.

Our guests are biology major, Claire Marino '23; critical Black studies and environmental studies double-major Reece Pauling '24; and mechanical engineering major Tobi Odusote '25.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 58: The Ins and Outs of Undergraduate Research

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0500

The universe is full of mysteries. What worlds lie in galaxies beyond our own? Why was Stonehenge built? How do the connections in our brains really work.

Every day, countless theorists, analysts, investigators and more chase down answers to fascinating questions like these. But they aren't the only ones.

Students at colleges and universities across the globe are also hard at work researching some of humanity's biggest curiosities – and discovering new groundbreaking solutions.

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're on the hunt for answers about how students can make the most of research experiences while in college. We'll discuss what research opportunities look like for students of varying interests, the kinds of resources students should look for and how doing research as an undergraduate sets students up for success.

Our guest is is Margaret Marr, Bucknell’s director of undergraduate fellowship research.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 57: Why Go to College?

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Our world today is bursting with endless choices and possibilities. We like to believe that with a combination of drive, talent and optimism, there's so much that a person can do with their life. So in a world where you might do virtually anything, why go to college?

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're spending some time considering that essential question. After all, determining why you might want to go to college is the first step in any student's college admissions journey.

We'll chat about why a student might consider pursuing education post-high school, how college experiences aid personal growth, the lifelong influence of a college education and more.

Our guest is Joe Tranquillo, the associate provost for transformative teaching & learning at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 56: What Is a Minor?

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500

What do you want to be when you grow up? It's a question many of us are asked from the time we're little. For a college student, deciding what to study for four years might feel like finally choosing an answer.

But with so many disciplines to choose from, it can feel stressful or even dissatisfying to toss all of your eggs into one academic basket. After all, no one is interested in just one subject or topic — which is what makes the option to declare a minor in college so powerful.

On this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're looking into what a college minor is and how exploring one or more minors can enhance a student's educational experience.

Our guest is Ghislaine McDayter, Bucknell’s associate provost for research and creative inquiry.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 55: What NOT to Do When Applying to College

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0500

You don't have to look very far to find tons of guidance on just about every aspect of your life — from social media videos on what to wear and articles about keeping healthy to podcasts on how to maximize your chances on getting into the school of your dreams.

On College Admissions Insider, we focus on providing expert advice on what you can do to make the most of your college admissions journey. But today we're turning the podcast on its head a bit, as we discuss what not to do during the college admissions process.

Our don'ts will include mistakes to avoid on the college application, who you shouldn't ask for a recommendation letter, what not to forget after applying and more.

Our guest is Kevin Mathes, assistant vice president and dean of admissions at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 54: Financial Aid Series, Pt. III: Accepting a Financial Aid Offer

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0500

If there's anything we know about securing financial aid at college, it's that it can be a pretty complex process. That's why we've dedicated the past few episodes of College Admissions Insider to outlining each aspect of the financial aid process to help you and your family fund your dream education.

Today, we're rounding out our discussion on financial aid by chatting about what happens after your financial aid offer has been calculated. How do you find out what you've been awarded? How do you accept an offer? What should you keep in mind when finalizing your payment? We're diving into all of that and more.

Our guests are two experts from Bucknell's Office of Financial aid: Erin Wolfe, the interim director of Bucknell financial aid office; and Jamie Lowthert, the associate director for financial aid.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 53: Financial Aid Series, Pt. II: How to Apply for Financial Aid

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

The choice to attend college isn’t just one decision. It’s a whole matrix of considerations, each one a crucial part of the journey to pressing submit on an application form. Perhaps, none is more important than the ability to finance your education.

Today, we’re diving into part two of our financial aid series on College Admissions Insider: how to apply for financial aid.

In this episode, we're breaking down acronyms like FAFSA and CSS, discovering just how student’s financial aid package is calculated, and chatting a bit about how the process might differ for students of various family structures and circumstances.

Our guests are two experts from Bucknell's Office of Financial aid: Erin Wolfe, the interim director of Bucknell financial aid office; and Jamie Lowthert, the associate director for financial aid.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 52: Financial Aid Series, Pt. I: How to Pay for College

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

If you've begun your college search, then you know there are myriad types of schools. But what's the one thing all of these options have in common? They all cost money to attend.

While higher education is one of the best investments you can make, figuring out how to fund that journey can also be one of the most daunting aspects of the college process. But it doesn't have to be!

This episode of College Admissions Insider is the first in a three-episode series about financial aid. We'll demystify the financial aid process as we cover everything from financial aid options, to the steps required to qualify for assistance, to how to accept a financial aid award after you're admitted, and so much more. In this first installment, we're focusing on that first piece, getting a clearer sense of the options available to help you pay for college and how you can determine the kind of aid you need.

Our guests are two experts from Bucknell's Office of Financial aid: Erin Wolfe, the interim director of Bucknell financial aid office; and Jamie Lowthert, the associate director for financial aid.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 51: Studying Abroad While In College, Pt. II: Student Roundtable

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

What better way to get an idea of what studying abroad is like than talking to those who've taken the journey themselves?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're welcoming a few Bucknell students on the podcast to share their study abroad experiences with you — including how they chose their destinations, their preparation processes and the biggest lessons they learned while abroad.

The students joining us are chemistry major and Spanish double-major Jake Kozora '23; accounting major Sarah Hanlon '24; and Arabic and Arab world studies major, Allure Cooper '23. They represent majors from all three of Bucknell’s colleges (Engineering, Arts & Sciences and the Freeman College of Management) and have participated in study abroad programs on three different continents.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 50: Studying Abroad While In College

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Imagine you're on an airplane — one of those big ones designed for international flights. You're moments away from jetting off on your biggest adventure to date. Where are you going? More importantly, what are you going there to learn?

For many college students, traveling abroad is an enriching experience — academically, culturally, and personally. It's also a big decision that requires plenty of thought and planning.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're giving you a birds-eye view of studying abroad as we cover the kinds of study abroad programs universities typically offer, when to start working study abroad into your college journey, earning academic credits for international courses and more.

Our guests are two staff members from Bucknell's Office of Global & Off-campus Education: Jen Fritz and Trace Coats. Jen is the associate director of Global Education and advises study abroad programs in the Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics and more. Trace serves as assistant director of technical operations within Global Ed, and his advising areas include the education and geography disciplines.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 49: A Guide to Standardized Testing

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Standardized test scores are just one data point of many that college admissions committees consider. At some schools, like Bucknell, test-optional policies empower students to decide whether their SAT or ACT scores are included in their application at all. For other applicants, completing these tests is still essential step in the college admissions process.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're providing some helpful info for students who will be taking tests like the SAT, ACT and AP Subject Tests as part of their college admissions journey. Topics include the merits and weaknesses of standardized tests, how to decide which tests to take, tips for studying and more.

Our guest is Ben Kavanaugh, associate director of admissions at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 48: Decoding Diversity Equity & Inclusion

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Whether we're hard at work, pursuing fun, or spending some much-needed downtime with friends, we all want to be surrounded by people who truly see us and all we have to bring to the table.

At college, feeling seen, heard and supported by people who value your unique identity and perspectives is key to a fulfilling four-year experience.

So how do you find a school where diversity, equity and inclusion are not just promises but practices? In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're discussing college resources for students from diverse backgrounds, how to get a sense of a school's commitment to equity and inclusion, the additional steps universities can take to make each student feel welcomed, and more.

Our guest is Marcus Scales, Bucknell’s Director of Multicultural Student Services.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Links:

Episode 47: Supporting Your Mental Health While in College

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

You might hit up the athletics center to exercise your body, the academic assistance office to sharpen your study skills or a weeknight social event to build strong bonds with friends and classmates. But where on a college campus do you go to care for your mind?

The answer is the counseling center, a place dedicated to helping students support their mental and emotional health. In this episode, we're covering the types of services a counseling center might offer, the process of receiving counseling on campus, tips for developing self-help tools and more.

Our guests are two professionals from Bucknell’s own Counseling & Student Development Center: Staff Psychologist Kelly Shaw and Staff Counselor Lee Bard.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 46: All About Accessibility Resources

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

You're probably familiar with the age-old proverb that "it takes a village to raise a child." Well, a similar sentiment is true of college, too. It takes a whole support system to help a student get the most out of their college education and experience.

For many, that support comes in the form of accessibility resources that promote the wellbeing, productivity, and confidence of students with unique academic, physical or mental health needs.

In this episode, we're talking all about accessibility at college — from learning what accessibility resources a school offers to requesting accommodations once you've been admitted and beyond.

Our guest is is Lakeisha Meyer, director of the Office of Accessibility Resources at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 45: Supporting Your Student Throughout College

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0400

College isn't a path that your student travels alone. Walking right beside them is a whole community of professors, classmates, alumni and, of course, you — the family members who have guided and nurtured your student their whole lives.

Your support doesn't stop the moment you drop your student off on campus for the first semester. In fact, there are numerous ways that you can continue to advocate for your student, whether they're in their first year of college or rounding out their fourth.

In this episode, we're covering how to navigate your student’s transition into independence, stay up to date on essential information and get involved at your student’s school of choice.

Our guests are Clare DeNicola and Maryellen Sheehan, who serve as executive members of Bucknell’s Parents Association. Also featured in this episode is Lauren Furman, who was senior assistant director of admissions at Bucknell at the time of recording.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Links:

Episode 44: A Quick Guide to Student Life

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0400

What do you like to do in your free time?

If you're the adventurous type, maybe it's exploring the outdoors or trying a new sport. Or catching a concert or theatre performance if you're into the arts. Or maybe you love working with others to better your community.

Whatever your extracurricular interests and passions are, college is the ultimate time to dive even deeper into the things that you love. At most colleges, you'll find a whole administrative division dedicated to enhancing the experiences of students outside of the classroom.

In this episode, we're discussing the role of a student life office on campus, how high schoolers can get a sense of what student life looks like at a school, and advice for exploring both new and familiar interests in college.

Our guest is Brent Papson, Bucknell’s director of campus activities & programs.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Links:

Episode 43: Taking Your Faith to College

Mon, 30 May 2022 03:00:00 -0400

College is much more than a place for academic advancement, or a pit stop on the fast track to a well-paying job. It's a four-year journey marked by mental, social and, sometimes, spiritual growth.

This episode is all about the spiritual form of personal development and the role faith can play in a student's college experience.

What does it mean if a college has a religious affiliation in the name? What should students of faith look for in religious resources on campus? How can parents support their students' faith journey from afar? We dig into all of these questions and more.

Our guests are three experts from Bucknell’s own Division of Religious and Spiritual Life: Muhammad Ali, who serves as the University's Muslim chaplain; Jessica Goldberg, who serves as the Jewish chaplain; and Kurt Nelson, who serves as the Protestant chaplain and as the Director of Religious and Spiritual Life.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 42: The Residential vs. Commuter Experience

Mon, 16 May 2022 03:00:00 -0400

You know the familiar movie scene: A family car pulls up to a cluster of old brick buildings and out jumps a bright eyed-student and their parents. After a drawn-out, emotional goodbye the family car drives off, leaving the student to start this exciting new chapter in their life called “college.”

Plenty of first-year students will experience a move-in day like on the Silver Screen. But many others won't, opting to live away from campus and commute to their school instead.

In this episode, we're decoding the distinction between the commuter student experience and traditional residential life — from resources commuter students should look for at a school to the value of living and learning on a college campus.

Our guests are Bucknell’s director of residential education Jackie Cetera and community director Ke’ Sims. Jackie works to cultivate a supportive living experience and facilitate learning and growth for students in residence halls. Ke’ actually lives on campus among the students as a professional staff member, developing opportunities that enhance academic success, community engagement and so much more.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 41: Applying to College as a Home-schooled Student

Mon, 02 May 2022 03:00:00 -0400

There are somewhere around 15 or 16 million high school students in the U.S. But not all of them walk through locker-lined hallways, sit in 20-person classrooms and count down the seconds until lunch period in the cafeteria.

Instead, many students and their families opt for high school learning that happens at home.

In this episode, we're offering helpful insights for home-schooled students who are navigating the college process. What are the curriculum requirements to qualify for college? What do schools look for in home-schooled applicants? How you can prove that you're prepared for the next step in your educational journey? We answer all of these questions and more.

Our guest is Ben Kavanaugh, associate director of admissions for Bucknell. Ben works with students from Northeast states like Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire, just to name a few. He also reads every application that comes to Bucknell from home-schooled students.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 40: How to Get a Feel for Campus Culture

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0400

If you could run personality tests on the colleges of their choice, what would the results say?

Like people, colleges and universities have their own sets of values, distinctive strengths and lenses through which they view the world. All of these characteristics indicate something about a college's culture and the day-to-day experiences students will have on campus.

In this episode, we're sharing some tips on how prospective students can get a sense of a university's campus culture — from the brochure to the college tour and far beyond.

Our guests are Bucknell admissions counselor Ashley Carnuccio and Dana Pardee '22. Ashley works with prospective students from central New Jersey and New York City. Dana is a psychology and economics double-major from Colts Neck, N.J., who is involved in Greek life, the Bucknell Dance Company, drama club, and more.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Minisode: Get To Know Your Hosts

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0400

We're dropping in mid-week with a special mini-episode to share some recent changes at College Admissions Insider. Bryan Wendell, who cohosted the podcast, is now pursuing new and exciting career opportunities beyond Bucknell — and we wish him the best of luck!

Joining Brooke Thames as the podcast's new cohost is Becca Haupt Aldredge, senior associate director of admissions at Bucknell.

If Becca's name (and voice) sound familiar, that's because she's been a guest on several prior episodes. In fact, she was our first guest ever! You may remember her expert advice on Episode 1: Choosing a College Without Visiting as well as other topics like the role of social media and what to do after you've been admitted.

In this minisode, you'll learn more about Becca, her college experience and her work at Bucknell — plus a couple of fun facts about Brooke.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 39: So You Want To Be a Teacher: Preparing for a Career in Education While in College

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Whether we met them in elementary, junior high or high school, we all have that one teacher who went above and beyond to mentor and encourage us.

It's easy to think that those wonderful teachers were simply born for the job. But dedicated, compassionate and empowering educators aren't magic — they're made. This episode of College Admissions Insider is for future college students who want to be that wonderful, life-changing teacher someday.

In this episode, we'll discuss how to choose the right major for a future in education, what it takes to earn teaching certification and why high schoolers looking to make a positive impact on future generations might want to consider this career path.

Our guest is Ellen Amarante, Bucknell’s director of professional education. Ellen has experience as an elementary school teacher and has worked at Bucknell for seven years, the last four of those spent working in the Education Department.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 38: Financial Aid and College Affordability

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Alongside stick-figure families and save-the-environment slogans, there’s another bumper sticker you're bound to see if you spend enough time on the road: "My kid and my money go to [insert university name here]."

It's a sticker that's quite real and honest. And in the spirit of being real and honest, we wanted to share an episode of College Admissions Insider that’s all about the truth behind college affordability.

In this episode, we’ll define need-based aid, discuss how families should factor affordability into their college search, and try to dispel some misconceptions about college costs — all in hopes of demystifying this crucial aspect of the college admissions process.

Our guest is Lisa Keegan, Bucknell’s vice president for enrollment management. Lisa has worked in higher education for over 15 years, with nearly a decade spent in enrollment management leadership roles.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 37: Merit Awards: How Are They Granted?

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Take a moment to consider what you’re good at — an achievement you're most proud of, a skill you’ve spent years perfecting, or an activity or cause you’ve passionately pursued.

If you’re a high school student on the track to college, there may be numerous merit scholarships out there for you.

Just like colleges and universities themselves, higher education scholarships are abundant and diverse. But unlike need-based financial aid, many of these merit awards don’t consider a student's financial situation. Instead, they’re doled out based on a student's accomplishments and talents — from academics, athletics and the arts to niche hobbies and interests.

But questions remain, like who qualifies, how do you apply, and does a merit-based scholarship have any effect on your need-based financial aid package? In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll answer those questions and more.

Our guest is Kevin Mathes, Bucknell’s dean of admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 36: You Got Your Acceptance Letter — Now What?

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Links:

Episode 35: What to Do While You Wait for a Decision

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Episode 34: Preparing for Your Dream Job While in High School

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0500

When do you find "the one"?

Some people don't pinpoint their perfect career path until midway through college. For others, that true passion waits to reveal itself after years of being in the workforce.

But for a lucky few, that dream job shines brightly early on. These ambitious high schoolers are certain of what they want to do with their degrees before they even begin their college search.

This episode of College Admissions Insider is for that last group — the high schoolers who are charting paths to their dream jobs as we speak. In this episode, we’ll provide some tips to guide those students as they lay the groundwork for their future success.

Our guest, Pamela Keiser, is the executive director of career services at Bucknell's Center for Career Advancement. She helps us discuss everything from how to evaluate colleges based on career goals to gaining practical job experience while in high school.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment, or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 33: So You Want To Be a Doctor: Preparing for a Medical Career While in College

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0500

For high school students who aspire to be doctors or work in health care, there are numerous fields to choose from — areas like surgery, physical therapy and dentistry, to name just three.

But what is the right path to reaching that career? What majors might best set you up for success? And how many years should you expect to be in college?

Helping us navigate those questions and more is Alison Patterson, a pre-health adviser at Bucknell’s Center for Career Advancement. She holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from Marshall University School of Medicine, has taught anatomy and physiology at Bucknell, and has been advising pre-health students for more than a decade.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 32: So You Want To Be a Lawyer: Preparing for Law School While in College

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0500

It’s one of the oldest professions and a job that touches nearly every aspect of our lives, from finances and real estate to commerce, health care, and beyond.

That far-reaching trade is law, which encompasses far more than the intense courtroom scenes we see in crime movies and TV shows. In fact, there are more than a dozen major fields of law and an array of even more nuanced concentrations offered at law schools around the country.

But for those who dream of attending law school one day, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. What undergraduate majors will lay the right foundation? What courses should you take in college to acquire and hone the skills you’ll need in any legal field? And what can you do now — in high school — to set yourself up for future success?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll provide a guide to all that and more.

Our guest is Dianne McDonald, a pre-law adviser at Bucknell who helps students plot their journeys to a career in law.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 31: How I Crafted a Killer Application Essay

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Think about the latest TV series you binge-watched. Did it start by saying, "In this TV show, you'll meet a messed-up family with lots of problems." Probably not. It likely threw you right into the story, sharing something interesting just a few moments after you pressed "play."

In other words, it hooked you quickly, and it did so by showing, not telling.

What if you applied this same strategy to application essays? In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll share how to create an application essay that an admissions office won't be able to stop reading.

We invited two Bucknell students who wrote killer application essays to share a little about their process. They'll also read an excerpt from the essays, to give you an idea of how they turned their unique story into unforgettable prose.

Our guests are Meghan Tran, a management student from New Jersey, and Kelley Francis, an arts & sciences student from Colorado.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 30: Inside the Mind of an Application Reader, Vol. 2

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0500

If you're on Bucknell's mailing list, you might have seen an email telling high school students that when they apply to Bucknell, a real human — not some computer algorithm — reviews their application personally.

At Bucknell, we're proud of that fact. But that statement might raise a follow-up question: Who are those humans who will review my application?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, you'll meet two members of the team that reviews Bucknell applications. Whether you're planning to apply to Bucknell or not, we think you'll enjoy peeking behind the curtain to see how application readers approach the review process.

We'll discuss questions like:

What does the application review system look like?
How many people will read an application?
What are some reasons an application might be denied?
And the most important question of all: What can an applicant do to stand out?

Longtime listeners might remember that we've used this exact topic before in our fourth episode. That episode has been so popular that we've decided it's time for a sequel.

Our guests are: Jill Medina, Bucknell's senior associate dean of admissions, and Josh Wilkinson, associate director admissions for communications.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu

Links:

Episode 29: Why Bucknell? Students Answer the Top Questions About Bucknell

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0500

There's no better resource for learning about a university than its students.

Nobody else truly knows what it's like to live in that campus community 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Students are the ones who take the classes, attend the events, participate in the clubs and live in the residence halls.

That's why it's so important to talk to actual students when researching colleges. By hearing why they chose that school and learning what life is like there, you'll gain a clearer picture of what that university offers.

In that spirit, we're bringing you a special episode of College Admissions Insider. Instead of our typical approach of talking about colleges in general, this one's all about Bucknell. You'll hear from three current Bucknell students about their journey from high school to Bucknell.

They'll also answer some of the top-searched questions about Bucknell, helping listeners learn more about life in Lewisburg.

Please enjoy hearing from Caitlin, Catherine and Tiffany for this special episode.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 28: Making the Most of a Counselor Visit to Your High School

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Sometimes you travel a long distance to go see a college or university that interests you. Other times, if you're lucky, that college or university comes to see you.

They're called counselor visits, and they're a great way to learn more about a university without leaving school grounds.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll share our top tips for making the most of these counselor visits. We'll cover it all — what happens during a typical counselor visit, whether students should prepare for these visits — and if so, how — and whether it's necessary to send a follow-up message to the counselor after their visit.

Here to help us break it all down is Ben Kavanaugh, associate director of Admissions for Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 27: Last-minute Application Reminders Before You Click “Submit”

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0400

A lot of emotions go through a student's head as their mouse cursor hovers over the "submit" button on a college application.

There's excitement. There's hope. And yes, there's probably a fair amount of second-guessing, anxiety and maybe even a dash of all-out panic.

To be fair, that's a pretty important click in the life of a college student. But if you have prepared in the right way, it doesn't have to be so terrifying.

That's where College Admissions Insider is here to help. In this episode, we'll cover all the last-minute reminders students need before clicking "submit." What should you double-check? Who should you trust to review everything? And when is the right time to start all these final checks?

To help us cover all our bases, we're joined by Kristin Morrow, Bucknell's Assistant Director of Admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 26: What Is Demonstrated Interest?

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Imagine this: Every time you visit a college, email a counselor or even click a link in an email from a university on your list, you’re helping your chances of getting admitted.

For schools that consider demonstrated interest, those scenarios are often a reality.

Some schools keep a record of the actions you take to, as the name implies, demonstrate that you're interested in that school. It’s one way for those colleges to know whether an applicant considers that school one of their top choices — or closer to the bottom of their list.

Those could be important factors when a school is considering whom to admit or choose from a wait list.

But how do you know whether a school considers demonstrated interest? What actions count as demonstrated interest? And is there such a thing as too much demonstrated interest?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll explore this important concept in detail. Our guest is Lisa Keegan, Bucknell's vice president for enrollment management.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 25: Preparing for Your First Semester

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0400

When applying to college, so much of a high school student's experience is laser-focused on perfecting every step of the college application journey. As a freshman, you build your initial list of schools you want to explore. As a junior, you begin visiting schools and reaching out to admissions offices. And as a senior, you wait with anticipation for good news.

But the journey of preparing for college doesn't end with an acceptance packet.

There's a whole new set of challenges — and opportunities — once you arrive at college for your first semester. In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll dive into that exciting chapter.

We'll answer questions like: What is new student orientation really like? How does a first-year student make friends, find their classes and get help if they need it? And what can high school students do right now to prepare themselves for their first semester?

Our guest is Adrienne Jensen-Doray, Bucknell's director of first-year experience and orientation.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 24: Advice and Support for First-gen College Students and Their Families

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0400

In a household where a parent or family member completed a four-year college degree, a high school student has someone right under their roof who can answer any question that student might have about the college search process.

But some students don't have that luxury and might need to find other ways to get the information they need to find, apply to and prepare for college.

They're called first-generation college students, or first-gens. In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll offer advice and support to these first-gens — and the members of their families who might be helping them along this journey.

We'll cover questions like: What exactly counts as being "first-gen"? What should first-gen students know when looking at colleges? And does being first-gen weigh into a school's decision on whether to admit someone?

Our guest is Jenny Kim, Bucknell's regional associate director of admissions. Jenny is based in San Diego and works with students from California, Nevada and Hawaii. She's also first-gen herself and a proud graduate of Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 23: Location: Urban or rural, in-state or out-of-state?

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Choosing a college home is a bit like choosing an actual home. It should be the perfect size, offer the features you want, and feel safe and comfortable.

Just like shopping for a house, searching for a college starts with that one key word: location.

So where exactly do you start when considering a school's geographic location when planning your college search? What factors should you absolutely keep in mind and which might you be okay to ignore?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we provide some helpful advice for choosing your home away from home. Our guest is Candace Leake, Bucknell’s associate director of admissions for access and outreach. Candace works with high school students in eight different states, coordinates off-campus and on-campus experiences for high schoolers, and handles Bucknell’s diversity equity & inclusion initiatives within admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 22: Public or Private: What’s the Difference?

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0400

By some counts, there are about 4,000 colleges and universities in the U.S.

As a prospective student, you can slice and dice that list in a seemingly infinite number of ways.

You could sort by state, you could look at urban schools and rural ones, you could filter out schools that you consider too big or too small, you could look at what majors are offered, you could look at whether the school offers Division I, Division II or Division III athletics. The list goes on and on.

You could also look at public schools and private schools. Of those 4,000 colleges in the U.S., about 60% are private and 40% are public.

But what are the fundamental differences between private and public schools? Are there advantages and disadvantages to each? And how should students begin comparing the two?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll answer those questions and more. Our guest is Lauren Rambo, Bucknell’s senior assistant director of admissions and the University's southeastern regional representative.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 21: A Deep Dive Into GPA Calculation

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0400

They're the three letters on the mind of pretty much every college-bound high school student: G, P and A.

But understanding how colleges and universities will interpret your grade-point average isn't so simple.

Some institutions recalculate applicants' GPAs using their own scale. Some only count certain core classes in their calculations, meaning electives don't factor in to the final number. Some universities even look at how an applicant's GPA might have improved over time.

GPA calculation was on the mind of College Admissions Insider listener Marile Borden recently. Marile is a parent from Massachusetts whose daughter is in her senior year of high school.

Marile wrote in to ask, "Have you considered an episode around GPAs? I'd love to hear if and how you recalculate GPA, as well as your thoughts on the age-old question: 'is it better to get a B in a harder class or an A in an easier class?'"

She also says it's tough to know if a certain GPA is in the ballpark because every school seems to calculate grade point averages a little differently.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll answer those questions and more as we take a deep dive into GPA calculation. Our guest is Kevin Mathes '07, Bucknell's dean of Admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 20: Academic Rigor: Which High School Classes Should I Choose?

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0400

By now you know that so many things go into a university’s decision of whether to admit someone.

They might look at extracurriculars, essays, letters of recommendation, demonstrated interest, test scores (if you submit them and the school isn't test-optional), and, of course, grades.

But higher-ed institutions don't just take a surface-level view of those A's, B's and C's. They look closer to see just how difficult the classes were — something called academic rigor.

That can bring up a lot of questions, like: Is it better to get an A in a standard class or a B in an honors one? Will a student be penalized if their school doesn't offer advanced classes? And what about prerequisites — classes that you must take in high school to be even considered by certain schools?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we untangle all those questions and more. Our guest is Jill Medina, Bucknell's senior associate dean of Admissions. Jill has worked in higher education for more than 25 years, including 17 years in selective college admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 19: Planning a College Visit Road Trip

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

When exploring colleges, there's only so much you can do online. At some point, you have to see these places for yourself — all five, 10 or 30 schools on your list.

Unless a family member has unlimited vacation days (or a teleportation machine), the only way to realistically visit multiple schools in a reasonable amount of time is by planning a college visit road trip.

But how do you organize one of these info-gathering trips? How can you keep all these visits straight in your head? And what's the best way to maximize that family time as you travel together from destination to destination?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we provide a road map for success. Our guest is Alison Almasian, director of college counseling at the Taft School, a private boarding school in Watertown, Conn., Before that, she spent 22 years in college admissions.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 18: College Housing: What You Need to Know Before Applying

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

College is more than a place to learn, meet interesting people and grow. For most students, it's also where you'll live — perhaps for four years of your life.

Young people who may be accustomed to living in their own room at home will suddenly be sharing a room (and bathroom) with others.

That fact makes finding the right housing fit just as important as finding the right academic fit. So how do you do it?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we'll swing those doors wide open. Our guests are Stephen Apanel, Bucknell's Director of Housing Services, and Ashley Hubler, Bucknell's Assistant Director of Housing Services.

Listen as we discuss the benefits of off-campus and on-campus housing, specialty housing options like Affinity Houses, and roommate selection.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 17: How to Select a College That Will Support Your Dietary Needs

Mon, 31 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

If a typical college semester is about 15 weeks long and students eat three meals a day, that means they're eating 315 meals on campus each semester. That's more than 600 meals during each academic year.

That makes food a pretty important part of the college experience — and an important part of choosing which college to attend. This is especially true for students who have special food allergies or dietary needs — or even those students who want to make healthy decisions about food.

So what should students be looking for when deciding which school will meet their dietary needs and preferences? How can families ensure their student will be given plenty of allergy-sensitive options? And, on top of all this, is there a way to know that the food will be both delicious and nutritious before applying?

That's what's on the menu for this episode of College Admissions Insider. Our guest is Bucknell nutrition specialist Tanya Williams, who shares some essential insight.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 16: My Application Story

Mon, 17 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

The college application process is highly personal — no two journeys are ever the same.

Even still, we can learn a lot from those who have traveled that road before by asking what they did right and what they wish they'd done differently.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we invite listeners to our first college admissions roundtable. It's a chance to hear from current college students about each step of their application process.

Listen as three Bucknell students — Emily, Gabe and Ryan — share their application stories. When did they start building a list of colleges to consider? How did they narrow that list down? What do they wish they had done differently when applying?

They have a lot to teach us, so take a listen!

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 15: The Role of Social Media When Looking at Colleges

Mon, 03 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Today's high school students don't just rely on websites and viewbooks. They turn to social media to help them get a complete picture of life at a particular college.

At some schools, the reverse happens, too. Some colleges and universities (not Bucknell) actually look at an applicant's social media to give them a fuller picture of the prospective student.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, Becca Haupt, the Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Bucknell University, delivers a deep dive into the world of social media.

Becca and the hosts discuss:

What prospective students and their families should be looking for when examining a school's social channels
How to go beyond the school's official channels to see what people are "unofficially" saying about a school
What high school students should do if they're applying to a school that reviews applicants' accounts
How to keep a healthy outlook about college applications when looking at other people's posts

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 14: Beyond Academics - How to Show Who You Really Are on an Application

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

These days, your dream school will look at way more than grades. They want the complete package: someone who shows promise both inside and outside the classroom — not some computer who can ace any exam but does little else.

So how do you present that complete package to a college? Which out-of-the-classroom parts of your life are worth highlighting? Do some extracurriculars look better on a résumé than others? And what should you do if your after-school time is consumed by a single activity — perhaps a job or a sports team or taking care of a family member?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, Candace Leake, Bucknell’s associate director of Admissions for access and outreach, shares the best ways to show colleges who you really are through your application.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 13: Is a Gap Year Right for You?

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

There are dozens of reasons a student might choose to take a gap year, a voluntary yearlong break taken between the end of high school and the start of college. It might be to travel, find a job or internship, or complete volunteer or service work.

In recent years, we've seen that about 3% to 5% of students take a gap year after high school. At Bucknell, that number is about 1% of each incoming class.

But what are the pros and cons of taking that year away? How do you apply for a gap year deferral if you've already gotten into college? And what should students keep in mind before and during their gap year?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, Bucknell’s assistant director of admissions, Kristin Morrow, offers advice to students deciding whether a gap year is right for them, including insights into how that pause might impact their applications and admission to the colleges on their list.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 12: A Guide to Early Decision and Early Action

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Waiting is the most agonizing part of the college admissions process. You send off your materials and then keep clicking that refresh button until the decision arrives (or your phone dies).

But for a select group of applicants, that waiting period is significantly reduced. These are the students who applied Early Decision or Early Action to their top-choice school or schools.

These students could get a decision as early as December instead of the following March or April — a huge relief, to be sure. Plus, many schools admit Early Decision applicants at a higher rate than Regular Decision applicants.

But before you click submit on an early application, you'll want to make sure you've gone over all the pros and cons for doing so.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, Dean of Admissions Kevin Mathes ’07 covers everything you need to know about Early Decision and Early Action.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 11: What International Students Need to Know About Applying to College in the U.S.

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Top-tier American universities like Bucknell (which welcomed its first international student in 1858) have been attracting talented international students for generations.

But even as more international students choose to attend college in the United States, the process for exploring, applying to, and attending American universities has not gotten any easier.

This episode of College Admissions Insider is all about the unique — and sometimes complicated — journey that international students must take if they want to attend college in the United States.

In addition to sharing advice for international students, we also help families living in the U.S. understand what colleges are doing to make international students feel more welcome — and how you can help.

Our guest is Brett Basom, Bucknell's associate director of international recruitment. He’s been in college admissions for 30 years and at Bucknell for three years. In addition to meeting with students from around the world, Brett reviews every application to Bucknell from an international student or an American student living overseas.

Links:

Episode 10: A Guide to Transferring Colleges

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Most of the material you'll find about applying to college covers all the steps leading up to applying — and then it stops.

But what happens if you end up at a school that's not the right fit? Or what if you attend a two-year school and want to transfer to a four-year university?

That's where transferring comes in. How is the process of applying to transfer different from the first-year application journey? What are schools looking for in prospective transfer students? And what are some things to watch out for along the way?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell offer a guide to transferring colleges.

Our guest is Caro Mercado, Bucknell's Associate Dean of Admissions and the professional in charge of Bucknell’s transfer program.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 9: What Is a Liberal Arts Education?

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

As you explore colleges, you’ll see these two words everywhere: “liberal arts.”

But what does that phrase mean? What kinds of students might benefit most from a liberal arts education? And how might the day-to-day experience at a liberal arts school differ from life at a different kind of school?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell take a closer look at the benefits of a liberal arts education.

Our guest is Kim Councill, Bucknell's associate dean of faculty in the Division of Arts & Humanities and also a professor of music education.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 8: What 9th and 10th Graders Can Do Now to Prepare to Apply

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

After 8th grade, the warmup rounds are over, and suddenly everything starts to count.

By 9th and 10th grade, every class, activity, and test has the potential to help students get into the college of their dreams.

It’s no wonder that’s the same time parents, teachers and counselors start expecting students to think about their college plans.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell take a closer look at those 9th- and 10th-grade years.

Our guest is Carrine Gadoury, a Bucknell alum who is now an admissions counselor at Bucknell.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 7: The Role of Parents When Applying to College

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Behind many successful college students is a passionate parent who helped coach and guide them throughout the application process.

They're there every step of the way as a coach, cheerleader, personal chauffeur and so much more. But now that it's time for their student to apply to college, these parents might not know what role to play.

They don't want to overstep and become that aggressive snowplow parent or lawnmower parent all those parenting articles warn against. But they also don't want to just sit back and do nothing.

So how can parents walk that line? In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell take a closer look at the role of parents when applying to college.

Our guest is Jill Medina, Bucknell's senior associate dean of Admissions and a mother of two.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 6: Applying Test Optional

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0500

Standardized tests are one way that colleges can learn more about an applicant — but they're no longer the make-or-break moments they once were. That's why some schools, including Bucknell, decided to make SAT and ACT scores optional when applying.

It's called a "test-optional" admissions policy, and it shifts the power away from the companies that make these standardized tests and back to where it belongs: in the hands of students themselves.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell take a closer look at "test-optional" policies. Why do schools go test-optional? Does applying test-optional hurt an applicant's chances of being admitted? And if they're not requiring test scores, what do test-optional schools look for?

Our guest is Kevin Mathes, Bucknell's Dean of Admissions who spearheaded the University's shift to a test-optional policy back in 2019.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Episode 5: Writing a Killer College Application Essay

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

At schools like Bucknell that receive thousands of applications every year, there’s a good chance some applicants will have similar grades, academic rigor, and extracurricular involvement.

But there's a place where applicants can stand out — something guaranteed to be found in their application and no other. We're talking about the college essay — an applicant's best opportunity to show colleges who they are.

Writing a great college application essay doesn't have to be an intimidating process.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell share proven tips to help students craft a killer college application essay.

Our guest is Josh Wilkinson, Bucknell’s associate director of admissions for communications and an application reader, meaning he gets to see hundreds of student essays every year.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 4: Inside the Mind of an Application Reader

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Students pore over every detail of the application, craft the perfect essay, and manage to score some top-notch recommendations. But then: silence. No feedback until that envelope or email arrives with the decision.

Even that feedback is limited to just three varieties: Yes, you're in. No, you didn't get in. Or hang on, you've been put on the waitlist. The student doesn't know where they went right or what thinking went into the decision to admit them.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell end at least some of that uncertainty surrounding the process of application review.

Listen as Lauren Rambo, Bucknell University's Senior Assistant Director of Admissions takes you inside the mind of an application reader.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 3: Applying Undecided

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

We know that not everybody has a major identified when apply season arrives. In fact, the most popular major for students applying to Bucknell is "undecided."

Bucknell and other highly selective schools know that "undecided" doesn't mean "indecisive." It can actually show your willingness to explore and take advantage of the wide range of opportunities that await you.

But does applying undecided hurt your chances of getting into schools like Bucknell? What does an application reader think when they see "undecided"? And how can you actually make that "undecided" designation work to your advantage?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell welcome Chrissy Findlay, associate dean of Admissions at Bucknell University, to answer those questions and more.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links:

Episode 2: When to Apply to College

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

It's officially apply season — aka deadline season. But with all these important dates approaching fast, how can students keep everything straight and budget their time effectively?

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell welcome Candace Leake, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Bucknell, to discuss how to manage your time when applying for college.

When should students start this process? At what point should they begin adding information into the Coalition App or Common App? And what can high school freshmen, sophomores and juniors do right now to get ready?

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Links:

Episode 1: Choosing a College Without Visiting

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 19:00:00 -0400

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, brought to you by Bucknell University, Brooke Thames and Bryan Wendell welcome Becca Haupt, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Bucknell, to discuss how a student can choose a college without ever visiting campus.

Because of COVID-19, many schools have canceled or significantly reduced their visit opportunities. That’s tough on high school students looking to build their list of college finalists or start sending off applications. But it can be done, and we'll show you how.

Hear how it's possible to make this important decision from the comfort of your laptop at home.

Read a transcript for this episode

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email podcast@bucknell.edu.

Links: