Advertise on podcast: College Admissions Insider

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 [email protected]. 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: Get our official College Planning TimelineInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome Center 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Get our official College Planning TimelineInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Get our official College Planning TimelineInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: How to use AI in your college searchInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Find your Bucknell admissions counselorInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Get interview tips and prep resourcesInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Get to know Lewisburg, Pa.Info about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Get to know Lewisburg, Pa.Info about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome Center 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Dig into Bucknell's outcomesInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Info about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Learn more about waitlistsInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Info about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Explore our Camps, Conferences & Visit ProgramsLearn more about the Bucknell Academy Summer ExperienceInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Info about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.

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 [email protected]. 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: Learn more about financial aid at BucknellExplore Bucknell scholarshipsInfo about applying to BucknellApplication dates and deadlinesPlan a visit to Bucknell@iamraybucknell, our student-run InstagramBuild a Bucknell Custom ViewbookLatest news for prospective studentsBucknell Virtual Welcome CenterWhen 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.