The Reach High Scholars Podcast

Abbey Schlangen - Part 1

Abbey Schlangen (RHS ’12) joins Jon to talk about how her approach to learning evolved during high school—and why staying curious, even under pressure, helped her find direction. She shares how balancing school, sports, and work kept her grounded, what she took away from a summer at Phillips Exeter, and how being around motivated peers shaped her mindset. Catch the final episode of the season—part two of Abbey’s story—coming next.

Abbey Schlangen - Part 2

In the second half of her conversation with Jon, Abbey Schlangen (RHS ’12) talks about how she approached the college search, what helped her stay focused, and why visiting campuses made a real difference. She reflects on studying abroad in Italy, gaining hands-on experience during college, and how a series of college jobs, internships, and connections eventually led to a full-time role at Google after graduation.

Jake Leavitt - Part 2

In part two of his conversation with Jon, Jake Leavitt (RHS ’11) discusses the pressures of junior and senior year, the emotional rollercoaster of college applications, and how he leaned on his fellow Reach High participants to navigate the uncertainty. He shares his meticulous approach to college visits, what it was like to get into every school he applied to—including his dream school—and the unexpected chain of events that led him to his career as a therapist.

Jake Leavitt - Part 1

Jake Leavitt (RHS ’11) joins Jon to talk about how Reach High Scholars expanded his understanding of the college admissions process, helped him take greater control of his future, and changed how he related to academics and learning. Jake also shares how Phillips Exeter and Middlebury deepened his passion for psychology and languages. If you want to hear the second half of Jon and Jake’s conversation, tune into the next episode!

Tovah Duffaut - Part 2

In part two of her conversation with Jon, Tovah Duffaut (RHS ’19) opens up about navigating imposter syndrome as a college freshman, why a small liberal arts environment turned out to be the right fit for her, and how she managed stress and expectations during the application process. She also reflects on studying abroad in England, discovering her voice, and how those experiences ultimately led her to a meaningful career in public relations.