The Anchor

Thursday, January 22, 2015

50 for 50: Robyn Lady

Robyn Lady

Director of Student Services

Performing Arts Administrator

Chantilly High School (VA)

How long were you in your most recent admissions position at Chantilly HS?

I have been the Director of Student Services at Chantilly High School for the eight years. I delight in leading a strong department of 11 counselors and 2 career center specialists.

How long have you been in admissions/college counseling?

Prior to my current position, I worked as a high school counselor for 12 years at three other high schools in Fairfax County Public Schools (Marshall High School, Thomas Jefferson HS for Science and Technology and McLean High School).

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

As a graduate student in school counseling I did not take any courses in college admissions counseling. When I started at Marshall High School in 1995, I learned on the job and managed to get through my first year. A colleague encouraged me to attend the PCACAC conference when it was held in Tyson’s Corner and that was the best advice I received during those early years. While working at TJ I began to develop strong relationships with the college side of the desk and committed to attending PCACAC and NACAC every year. My passion for college admissions counseling and firm belief in the transformative power of a college education continue to drive my work today.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

This is a tough question, because every year there are great memories…. but one does stand out above the rest. A few years ago we had an amazing, rock star of a student leader (she was also a star student) wait- listed at her top school. Our entire Instructional Council at Chantilly was shocked by then news and wanted me to do something to fix it. I am not accustomed to contesting decisions, and I happened to agree with the decision rendered by the institution (based on what they knew about her at the time of the decision). What had not been conveyed in the application was the impact she made on our entire school community. I immediately drafted a letter that was signed by the entire IC and sent it to her 1st choice school. I followed that up with a phone call and I was delighted to learn that the school was able to go to their waitlist and she was one of the first students offered admission. She continues to impress us and has been featured in the alumni magazine of her great university.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue leadership in PCACAC and/or NACAC?

Commit to attending the annual conference every year. Volunteer to help with registration and/or offer to help with conference planning. Make time to speak with current leaders and learn more about the different committees. If you reach out to a committee chair, indicate your interest in that committee, share your interests/talents and ways you believe you can serve. PCACAC is an amazing organization. Build relationships with people and leadership opportunities will certainly follow.

If not working in admissions/college counseling, what else could you see yourself pursuing?

Just about anything sports related. I would love to work in broadcasting, her for a professional franchise, or for a college or university’s athletic department.

What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

I was the Washington DC Metro Amateur Women’s Golf Champion in 2002. Prior to becoming the Director of Student Services at Chantilly I would play six days a week during my entire summer vacation. Now I work 12 months and am lucky to play 20 times a year.

What's a current trend or future issue you're passionate about right now? And why?

I am very concerned about the stress and anxiety on high school students in general. The one thing that really concerns me is the “push” to take “career oriented” electives. I see too many parents pushing their kids into business, marketing, engineering courses in ninth grade and discouraging participation in the fine, practical and creative arts.

*** To Celebrate Potomac Chesapeake's 50th Conference Anniversary, we're highlighting some of our current members. Each week until the conference at The Homestead in Spring 2015, a new member will be posted. Interested in participating? Email Aundra Weissert at aweissert2@washcoll.edu to get started.***

50 for 50: Jim Jump

Jim Jump

Academic Dean and Director of Guidance

St. Christopher's School (VA)

How long were you in your most recent admissions position at St. Christopher's School? How long have you been in admissions/college counseling?

I started in admissions at my alma mater, Randolph-Macon, right after graduation in 1976 (which suddenly seems like a long time ago). with the exception of a couple of years in graduate school and three years working as an admissions director at an independent school, I've been in college counseling ever since. This is my 25th year at St. Christopher's.

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

During my senior year in college, I was approached by the late Ed Cox, the admissions director at Randolph-Macon, about my interest in working in admissions after graduation. I didn't tell him, but my initial response to myself was "I would never do that," which has since become the principle that seems to guide my career. I aspired to a newspaper career, and had been all but promised a job at a good local weekly, but on the very same day I didn't get that job and got the offer to work in admissions. Given what's happened to the newspaper industry, someone was looking after me.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

In the early 90's we had a student here who had a difficult junior year personally and academically, including shaving his head, running away from home and having two minor honor offenses at the end of the year. The honor council recommended expulsion, but the Headmaster and I decided to see if we could get him into college instead. We were successful, and four years later he wrote him a thoughtful note of appreciation after he graduated. By coincidence, he e-mailed me yesterday to say he will be here today to look at the school for his five-year-old son.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue leadership in PCACAC and/or NACAC?

My involvements in PCACAC and later NACAC have not only made me better at doing my job, but have also been fulfilling and given me friends and colleagues at other schools and colleges. That's important because college admissions and college counseling can be lonely jobs on your own campus. No one really understands what you do (although they think they do), and as a result all of us need a network of support among colleagues. I am by nature willing to serve but hesitant to volunteer, but I've always had the good sense to take advantage of a good opportunity. I'd encourage everyone to look for ways to serve the profession (which I consider a noble calling), and be more willing to put yourself forward than I am inclined to be.

If not working in admissions/college counseling, what else could you see yourself pursuing?

Not sure. I was always good at identifying all the things I don't want to do, and not as good at figuring out what it is I want to do. College counseling felt right from the first. I would probably be pursuing my interest in writing in some form.

What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

Two possibilities--1) I won the Richmond "World Series of Trivia" a number of years ago, winning a cruise for my wife and me; 2) there is a children's book named Jim Jump, published the same year I was born. It's about a horse.

What's a current trend or future issue you're passionate about right now? And why?

I am passionate about trying to focus attention on the developmental importance of the college search and choice processes. The college process should help a student think about whom they are and what they want from life, and should serve as a bridge from adolescence into adulthood. Right now a lot of forces in the college admissions process (acceleration/pressure on colleges as businesses) work against this, but I believe it's an essential part of a young person's journey of self-discovery.

Thursday, January 15, 2015

50 for 50: Jake Talmage

Jake Talmage

Director of College Counseling

St. Paul's School (MD)

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

Like many admission people, I started by volunteering as a student in the office at my alma mater, William and Mary. Back then, students were needed to open mail, file papers, stuff envelopes, etc. That experience evolved into becoming a tour guide, then an internship. Through that internship, I had the opportunity to be a part of the admission committee, run an open house, evaluate applications, attend college fairs and much more. I loved it. As I graduated, I moved to University of Vermont and confirmed that I loved working with students through this process. After eight years on the college side, I had the opportunity to move to the other side of the desk which seemed like the right move at the time. I have now been a college counselor for fifteen years. I am not sure it matters which side of the desk I am on—I have enjoyed helping students throughout.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

Wow. This is tough. There are so many. They range from the silly—between the travel and working with teenagers, there are lots of laughs—to the impactful. I have met students and colleagues who have done amazing things. But, my favorites can be grouped together. Whether on the college or high school side, I really enjoy when a student returns a year or two or more later and says, “Thank you.”

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue leadership in PCACAC and/or NACAC?

Get involved at the level that works for you. When I first returned to PCACAC after being in VT, I was an admission officer at Johns Hopkins. Given my duties there, I did not have the time to fully engage myself, but I still did what I could. I met wonderful people and learned a lot from my engagement. I moved out of region for five years, but then returned. As I returned, I had more time and could get more involved. I volunteered more and over time Co-chaired Professional Development. Then, I had to step back for a couple of years due to other time constraints. Now, I have the opportunity to give more and am happy to serve as Secretary, Vice-chair for Admission Practices and on faculty at Summer Institute.

If not working in admissions/college counseling, what else could you see yourself pursuing?

Those that know me know I love the outdoors, specifically fishing. During college and high school, I was the first mate on a sport-fishing boat. My dream was to own a small inn somewhere like the Outer Banks or Florida Keys and run a fishing guide/charter service through it.

What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

A few years ago, my wife gave me a 1 gallon make your own beer kit and I have really gotten into it. At first, I followed prescribed recipes closely, but now I am experimenting more. My best attempt was an orange-infused summer ale while my most creative was a charred, bourbon-infused apple-wood IPA. I didn’t plan to char the wood, but it proved very interesting. Maybe I could pursue a job in the craft beer industry if fishing didn’t work out.

What's a current trend or future issue you're passionate about right now? And, why?

Given my involvement in getting the waitlist on the NACAC National Assembly agenda, many would think that I would discuss the growth and use of waitlists. But, I think waitlist and other ethically grey areas are a symptom of a bigger concern. The real issue is that there is a lot of pressure on admission offices and counselors and this pressure is growing. Therefore, I am passionate that we remember that we are working for and with individuals who are growing. I believe the college search and selection process is part of that development. If we remember that, then we will be able to meet NACAC’s (and therefore PCACAC’s) mission to “advocate and support ethical and professional practice in helping students transition to postsecondary education. NACAC promotes high professional standards and social responsibility through collaboration, knowledge and education.”

50 for 50: Matt Kaberline

Matt Kaberline

Co-Director, College Counseling

Severn School (Severna Park, MD)

How long have you been in your current position at Severn School? How long have you been in admissions/college counseling?

This school year is my third year at Severn School. Prior to joining Severn, I served as an admissions officer for a total of six years at the University of Mary Washington (VA) and Regis College (MA).

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

After completing my MFA in Creative Writing at Emerson College (Yes, that degree does come in handy when writing letters of recommendation. I’m kidding, of course!), I was determined to teach writing at a college. One of my grad school professors reminded me about the volunteer work I’d done for Emerson during new student orientation. He mentioned admissions as a path to “getting my foot in the door” at a school and then trying to teach after establishing myself for a year or two. Little did I know that working with students closely as a counselor would become a passion that rivals teaching.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

There are so many of them to choose from! The memories that stick out the most all have one thing in common: first generation students. As an admissions officer and as a counselor, there are few feelings better than helping students (and their families) realize that a college education can change their life and it is within their reach.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue membership in PCACAC and/or NACAC?

Take full advantage of these supportive, knowledgeable, and fun groups! I reach out to my fellow PCACAC members with questions frequently and they are quick to share valuable insights that help me to best serve students. NACAC offers a tremendous body of resources that have furthered my growth in the counseling profession on both sides of the desk.

If not working in admissions/college counseling, what else could you see yourself pursuing?

Teaching poetry workshops to children, teenagers, and senior citizens. I am able to pursue this at Severn where I teach our creative writing class. There’s a great deal of crossover between teaching writing and counseling students! Listening skills and reacting to emotion are important in both fields.

What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

My childhood dream was to go to law school and eventually work in government or become a judge, but after college I turned down a scholarship to law school and took a year to figure out the next move in my career path. That was scary; I’m still in awe of the support and guidance my parents gave me during that period in my life.

What's a current trend or future issue you're passionate about right now? And why?

Concussions and their impact on the teenage brain. I suffered through a few of them when I was a child and now I see some of my students struggling to deal with the lasting effects of concussions. New research on the subject is changing how we treat students and help them to return to learning. I’m very curious to see how admissions officers and college counselors work together to support students suffering from concussions, especially when these injuries occur at inopportune times during the college application cycle.

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

50 for 50: Jennifer L. Evans

Jennifer L. Evans

School Counselor, Department Chair

Broadneck High School (MD)

How long have you been in your current position at Broadneck HS? How long have you been in admissions/college counseling?

I have been at Broadneck High School for 13 years. Prior to that, I worked in Admissions at Goucher College for six years.

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

I started in this profession fresh out of college. I majored in Elementary Education and in my senior year of college realized that while I wanted to work in education I wasn't so sure anymore about elementary school. During my senior year of college (at Goucher) I worked with the campus Alumni Office leading the campaign for the senior class gift. Shortly after I graduated, someone in the Alumni Office called and told me about an opening in Admissions and encouraged me to apply. I found that I truly enjoyed my work in admissions and particularly enjoyed my visits to high schools which prompted me to go back to school for a Master's Degree in Counseling and then to move to the high school side.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

It is difficult to pick just one favorite memory. My time in this profession has been amazing in so many ways. I would have to say one of my favorite moments each year though is during graduation. I am fortunate to be on the stage as students accept their diplomas and each year there are students who turn to me as they are getting their diplomas and just mouth "thank you." It really means a lot to me and makes me feel like the work I do is important.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue leadership (or membership) in PCACAC and/or NACAC?

If someone is interested in getting involved in PCACAC or NACAC the best thing to do is jump right in. I started by attending conferences and then volunteering for committees. The more you volunteer, the more opportunities will come your way!

What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

I am an avid equestrian and I own a retired racehorse.

What's a current trend or future issue you're passionate about right now? And why?

I am deeply concerned about the rising cost of college tuition. I am concerned that the middle class is most impacted by these increases because they cannot afford the astronomical fees but earn too much to qualify for most need based programs.

50 for 50: Ryan Motevalli-Oliner

Ryan Motevalli-Oliner

Admissions Counselor

Washington College (MD)

How long have you been in your current position at Washington College? How long have you been in admissions/college counseling?

I have been an admissions counselor at Washington College for my entire career thus far in admissions, 1.5 years.

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

I simply fell into the world of admissions. As a senior at Kenyon College, I interviewed perspective students and really enjoyed it. After graduating, I did not give much though into working in admissions. A year went by and I realized I was passionate about helping students find the right college fit. So naturally, work in admissions was the best fit. I talked with my college counselor (and now mentor) Carl Ahlgren and he counseled me on what my next steps should be. Long story short, Washington College gave me my opportunity to help students.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

I don't think I have one solid memory. But, all the Open Houses we have done on campus have been so much fun. Watching the prospective students or admitted students navigate campus, music playing, and interacting with excited families, makes me remember how much fun I get to have working in admissions.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue membership in PCACAC and/or NACAC?

Get out of your comfort zone and interact with everyone and anyone. The more connections you can make, the easier it will be.

If not working in admissions/college counseling, what else could you see yourself pursuing?

Coaching. Before I started in admissions I taught 7th grade social studies and coached the school's volleyball team. I loved every minute of coaching.

What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

I am lover of everything Disney. From music to movies, I can't get enough of Disney animation (this includes Pixar films).

What's a current trend or future issue you're passionate about right now? And why?

College access and proper college counseling. Working with students who are not receiving proper counseling or have access to attend schools due to financially situations, I realize how lucky I am to have had the opportunities that I did have and makes me wonder why everyone can't have the same opportunities.

50 for 50: Kim Ball

Kim Ball

Associate Director of College Counseling

Collegiate School (VA)

How long have you been in your current position at Collegiate School? How long have you been in admissions/college counseling?

I have worked at Collegiate for 8 years, and have worked in admission and college counseling for over 15 years.

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

Quite by accident, as is the case for many. At the completion of my Master's program in Higher Education Administration, I focused my job search on student life positions, but I ended up accepting an admission counselor position at Johns Hopkins University, having never really worked in college admission. I loved the varied nature of the job and the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people. After 6 years on the college side, I decided I wanted greater interaction with the students over time, and so pursued college counseling positions. I also have had the great fortune of working with tremendous mentors at Johns Hopkins, Indian Springs School (AL), and now, Collegiate, all of whom have encouraged me to pursue my passions.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

Admissions lends itself to funny stories / war stories, particularly amidst travel seasons - probably too many to detail here. I do love reminiscing about those with former colleagues. I don't know that I have a favorite memory, but I love my job because I am able to be part of students' lives and watch them grow and overcome challenges. Whether a former student in my first college counseling group that has herself become an educator at a Kipp School in NYC, or a former student whose mother passed away a day before he received news of his acceptance to his dream college, or a student who thought she would never be able to afford college and realizes that her dream will in fact come true, these stories remind me that my job as an educator is fulfilling and that I have an opportunity to help guide young people during a very special time in their lives.

If not working in admissions/college counseling, what else could you see yourself pursuing?

For two years, I did try the world of marketing and business, and found that education was a much better fit. I actually don't ever see myself straying from this field.

What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

I have a fear of roller coasters and most amusement rides; although I will begrudgingly ride them for my children.

What's a current trend or future issue you're passionate about right now? And why?

I am really passionate about college access, and the potential of engaging students in more privileged communities to help other less advantaged students with the college process. In my mind, it could be mutually beneficial. A collaboration could help students who do not have exposure to the college process by providing information and guidance. And, for students who do have this knowledge but perhaps just go through the motions of the college application process, it could provide some real opportunity for reflection and appreciation.