College Admissions Decoded

In this episode, members of NACAC’s Admission Practices Committee share how NACAC’s Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission supports college admission professionals in making sound decisions with integrity, equity, and transparency. We discuss ethical dilemmas and consider how the profession can respond to emerging challenges in ever-involving higher education landscape.

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, we’re focusing on one of the most important, but often overlooked, parts of the college journey: the transition from high school to higher education. Getting into college is just the beginning. Helping students find their footing, their people, and their purpose once they reach campus is key to their success. Together with our expert guests, we’ll exp...

NACAC's David Hawkins and Sean Robins discuss the administration's changes to education policy, including efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and anti-DEI initiatives, and how these policies impact students, institutions, and the college admission landscape. They also share opportunities and strategies for advocacy. (Recorded on March 18, 2025) NACAC advocacy and policy updates:...

In honor of National School Counseling Week, we are shining a spotlight on the work of school counselors and the vital role they play in students’ lives. Every day, school counselors make a lasting impact by offering academic advising, providing college counseling, supporting the well-being of their students, and much more. Host Eddie Pickett is joined by NACAC members Jennifer Nuechterlein, Cicil...

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett is joined by NACAC members Emily Pacheco and Sebastian Brown to explore the impact of AI in higher education: from students using AI tools for essays and test prep, to admission offices using AI for student outreach and data analysis. Our guests provide insights on the opportunities and complex challenges that artificial intelligenc...

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett and NACAC members Kimberly Rutland West and Brooklyn Duong unpack how Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers approach work, communication, and collaboration. We dive into the historical events and cultural shifts that have shaped each generation, explore strategies for fostering understanding and communicating effectively...

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett sits down with three NACAC members—Priscilla Grijalva, Candice Mackey, and Stephanie Brazinsky—to explore the critical role of advocacy in education. They discuss how counselors can use data-driven strategies to make their impact visible, build meaningful collaborations with administrators and community partners, and advocate for eq...

In this episode, NACAC Board Director Tahirah Jordan Crawford leads an engaging discussion with two accomplished women leaders in the world of college admission counseling, covering topics such as finding joy in the work, leadership, work-life balance, and overcoming challenges. Gain valuable insights into the experiences and perspectives of women who are shaping the landscape of higher education....

Women's colleges offer transformative experiences for students that are more important than ever. These institutions provide access to inclusive campus communities and academic excellence with a focus on developing women leaders. In this episode, we will counter common myths, highlight unique opportunities from STEM programs to powerful professional networks, and explain why these nurturing enviro...

Studying abroad is so much more than enrolling in college courses in a different country—the experience can fundamentally change the course of your future. But who is this experience for, and what is the return on investment? In this informative discussion, leading experts break down everything students and parents need to know about studying abroad, covering everything from the resources needed,...

Parents are undoubtedly an instrumental part of the college admissions process for incoming students—but how much influence should parents actually have in this process? In this enlightening conversation, we talk to experts about what role parents have in the “marathon” that is the college admissions process, and the lessons the whole family can learn during these stressful, but rewarding times. ...

As more colleges become test-optional, admissions officers are tasked with defining the value of ACT/SAT tests—what they convey about students, and their level of importance on the admission process. As standardized testing policies shift with each incoming class of students, our guests today look at in which ways removing the exams promotes access and equity to the college admission process, whet...

In this episode, host Eddie Pickett and his guests explore the role of over 500 HSIs in the United States in serving millions students from both the admission angle and via student support programs. We dive into why a Hispanic-identifying student might choose these institutions for their higher education and discuss how HSIs are a refuge and support system for the growing demographic of Hispanic s...

In today’s episode, we talk about meeting veteran students where they are and how to best support them on their college journey. Veterans come from a range of backgrounds. These students bring a lot to a college campus—as well as their own unique challenges in the application process. We will discuss  the crucial elements in finding these applicants, how to create a healthy veteran community at co...

Bridging Gaps in Context and Personal Writing in the College Application Process As a prospective college student, how can you craft your college application to shine in the pool of thousands of applicants? One of the biggest hurdles in the application process is showcasing your skills, personality and goals—all in under 1,000 words. Finding your authentic voice to appeal to the admissions team ca...

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we speak with a leader who is the true definition of longevity and commitment, Mary Lou Bates, Vice President and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Skidmore College. She speaks to us about the challenge of raising a family while maintaining a thriving career, and how her passion for her work in admissions has allowed her to craft creative solutions du...

In recognition of Women’s History Month, today’s special episode focuses on empowering women to achieve their professional goals. We speak with one of the leaders in advancing equity in higher education, Youlonda Copeland Morgan, Former Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at UCLA. She talks with us about the misconceptions of creating balance in your work life, but rather, bringing your family...

College applications are meticulously designed to understand who a student is academically and interpersonally. In recent years, applications have included new prompts for students to talk about people they’re grateful for and instances that have positively impacted their lives.  For college admission offices, the responsibility of building community on campus relies heavily on these responses. In...

At least 10% of students on college campuses have a learning difference. In this conversation, two college admissions professionals share what students should look for when researching a college to determine whether and how the institution will facilitate their success in higher education. They share the many support systems they can look for when they start college. Guests: Marybeth Kravets, Past...

Race-Conscious Admission has been a component of the college admission process for over half a century and has endured legal battles for decades. With three new justices appointed since 2016, the national debate has resurfaced. NACAC Board Member, Eddie Pickett, talks to Managing Partner and co-founder of EducationCounsel LLC Art Coleman about the two latest cases against Harvard University and Th...

A lot of factors contribute to your success in college, from the academic rigor of your classes to the campus environment. The educational excellence and rich history and culture of HBCUs make them important options for many students across the U.S. In this conversation, two college admissions professionals share how their experiences at HBCUs set the stage for success in their own lives and the e...

How does the ticket price on higher education impact access, and what should families be paying? Two economists tackle these questions with the CEO of NACAC Angel Pérez. Together, they explore what financing constructs can increase equity, and what advice they have for those making difficult decisions about what they can afford. Guests: Sandy Baum, non-resident Senior Fellow at the Urban Institute...

Getting into college is one thing; what about completing your degree, and making the most out of the experience? In this conversation, college counselors and administrators talk about the importance of having the right mindset on the first day you set foot on campus. The best advice: know who you are, how you find success, and be honest with yourself about it. Live that reality by tackling fears a...

There are many ways to take advantage of all the opportunities community college provides. It serves some students as a stepping stone to four-year schools, a chance to obtain a practical skill that leads to a job, or a flexible option for students with families or work commitments. We debunk the outdated stereotype and stigma of community college, and look ahead at the bright future of this pathw...

Angel Pérez, CEO of NACAC, talks with two up-and-coming college admission professionals about lessons learned from the pandemic, how to find workplaces that share your values, and what they think lies ahead for the next generation of college admission counselors.  NACAC's 2021 Rising Star Award Winners Jonathan Gowin, director of the Regional Student Program at the New England Board of Higher Educ...