The Anchor Exchange: A PCACAC P(C)odcast

Anchors Away: Arrrgh, the Last Episode of Season 2!

The Podcast Team is feeling bittersweet about this being the last episode of Season 2. We start with our Shifting Currents segment and a discussion about our favorite topics that have been covered, as well as if any thoughts or opinions have changed since the episode has aired. Then, the current Presidential Trio has a conversation about the importance of our association, relevance of the college admissions industry, and how PCACAC members can and should stay involved. Anchors Away and stay tuned for Season 3!

Anchors Away: Gearing up for March Madness

March means something big in higher education: March Madness! In this episode of The Anchor Exchange, we explore how big athletic moments can shape college admissions. Kiara talks with Dale Bittinger from University of Maryland Baltimore County about the impact of the 2018 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament and how moments like that influence student interest, campus culture, and admissions. Later, Janssen is joined by Roger Burke from James Madison University and Michael Nixon from University of Maryland College Park to continue the conversation. Our Shifting Currents segment highlights how admissions teams can better use junior-focused programming in their recruitment strategies.

Anchors Away: Where Yield Meets Impact

Spring yield season is here and we’re diving into it from both sides of the desk. In this episode, we sit down with Assistant Director of Admissions at the University of Delaware Kasey McAlister and College and Career Specialist Amy Ferguson to talk about what yield season really looks like on both sides of the desk. From student decision-making trends to relationship-building, and the emotional weight of spring enrollment decisions, we explore how institutions and high schools work together to support students through one of the most important moments in their college journey. We also take time to recognize Black History Month and reflect on what it means to support both Black students and professionals within admissions. We hope you enjoy this episode!

Anchors Away: One Year into the Administration

In this episode, we sat down with members of PCACAC’s Government Relations Committee to discuss how the higher education landscape has shifted one year into the current presidential administration. The conversation covers updates to FAFSA, funding changes, and what may lie ahead for the Department of Education. The episode also features our Shifting Currents segment, where we explore pre-college programs as an option for students.

Anchors Away: Applications, Engagement, and Logging Off

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what really happens during application reading season and what student engagement looks like throughout the process. We talk about how applications are reviewed, the ways students show up during this time, and what that means for counselors on both sides of the desk. As the holiday break approaches, we also reflect on the importance of logging off, setting boundaries, and giving ourselves permission to unplug and recharge. Whether you’re deep in application review or counting down to winter break, this episode is a reminder that rest is part of the work, too.