Advertise on podcast: College Admissions Insider

A Disney-Pixar voice actor, a gold medalist in the British Biology Olympiad, and an internationally ranked pinball player. Those are just a few experiences that make up Bucknell University's first-year students. Today, we're diving into how admissions teams bring unique individuals together into one well-rounded college class. You'll hear: How admissions goals for the class take shapeWhat personal details stand out in applicationsThe impact your classmates have on your whole college experienceGuest: Kevin Mathes '07, vice president of enrollment management & dean of admissions 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 Center

College isn't a one-size-fits-all experience. On many campuses, there's an entire office dedicated to providing accessibility resources for a variety of needs, including learning differences. In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we're exploring: What learning differences arethe kinds of accommodations that might be availableOther ways students can work on skill-building and developmentGuest: Jessie Jones, accessibility coordinator 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: Learn about Bucknell's accessibility 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 Center

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 [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.

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 [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 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

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 Center

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 Center

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 Center

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 Center

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 Center

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 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 Center

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 Center