Profile: Kathleen Voss

Kathleen Voss

Regional Director

Office of Undergraduate Admission

Georgia Institute of Technology

How long have you been in admissions/college counseling? Share your journey story!

23 years. I started in admissions at Regis College in Weston, MA in 1993.  Working at Regis, which at that time was a small women’s college, gave me the opportunity to wear many hats.  If you want to know what hard work is…work at a women’s college!  My experience at Regis provided me with the fundamentals of college admission, as well as discovering the importance of mentorship, both giving and receiving. 

After leaving Regis as the Associate Director in 1998, I ventured out into the corporate world… banking no less. I worked at Fleet Boston Student Loans until getting married in 2001.   It was an incredible, beneficial experience, albeit cut throat and stress inducing.

In 2002, we moved to Virginia and Bill Bissett was kind enough (considering I was 7 months pregnant) to hire me as a Regional Rep for Manhattan College in New York City. Manhattan College was one of the first schools to use regionals in the area.  Bill had found success with the program in New England and saw the potential in the mid-Atlantic.  Manhattan College offered me the opportunity to join PCACAC and meet many of you.

I have been with Georgia Tech since August of 2013, and can honestly say that I have never been happier.  I feel as though I have come full circle, starting at a school that admitted 250 women in 1993, to a school that reviews over 30,000 applications in a year!  I learn something new every day… it’s like I am a rookie again and I love it.

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions? 

My dad, Chris Kiernan, worked in admissions for many years at Assumption College in Massachusetts, Saint Joe’s in Maine and finally at Salve Regina University in Newport, RI.  I grew up on college campuses, stuffing search pieces and licking envelopes over the summers in my dad’s office.  It sort of just fit.  I may be the only person in the field who actually planned to get into admissions as a career.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

Watching Josette Auguste from West Roxbury High School graduate from Regis College in the mid 90’s.  She was a brilliant kid and a beautiful person with a dream of becoming a doctor. She was a member of the first class that I recruited.  We had worked together during the admissions process and then while she was a student tour guide and ambassador.  When she and others from that class graduated, I felt as though I had really accomplished something special.

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

Go for it!  Your perspective is important and ideas are needed.

If not working in admissions/college counseling, what else could you see yourself pursuing?  Radio City… Kick Line…Rockettes!

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

I used to DJ at clubs in Newport RI.

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

Assisting Military and Veteran students in the enrollment process. As the wife of a veteran, I consider myself honored to have had the opportunity to counsel vets, their children and spouses, however, I was overwhelmed by the bureaucracy.  Continuing to streamline the process for this population, as well as educating admission’s professionals about the policies on their campus or in their states will help to provide access to our nation’s servicemen and women.

Profile: Steve Maczynski

Stephen 'Steve' Maczynski

Director of College Counseling Services

Commonwealth Academy (Alexandria, VA)

How long have you been in admissions/college counseling? Share your journey story!

I evolved from the teaching profession into college counseling. I had written so many recommendations since I taught AP US Government that my interest grew in the field.  I began actually working as a College Counselor twenty years ago.

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

I worked as an AP instructor.  I slowly evolved into a hybrid-position at Georgetown Prep in North Bethesda as a counselor/teacher.  It was great to learn from wonderful mentors who had a long history in the profession. Membership in NACAC and PCACAC put me in touch with incredible resources so that I could adapt to a fast-paced job-setting.  Eventually, I also pursued my licenses as a therapist in both Virginia and Maryland.  Since I was constantly asking adolescents about their identities and their direction in life, I needed to be equipped in handling emotional difficulties.  This also helped with family interactions.  I spent a short time working as Director of Counseling Services as Westfield High School in New Jersey.  I commuted during the week, and I established a private practice in Virginia that works with middle school and adolescents on emotional health.  Now I work as Director of Counseling at Commonwealth Academy in Alexandria while still maintaining my practice.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

My favorite counseling memory was watching an inner-city student who was largely abandoned by both parents- mom had a drug addiction and dad was absent- gain acceptance to Brown University.  It showed me that admissions can truly work the way that it is supposed to when a student works hard and believes in his dreams.  He gained that acceptance through diligence and perseverance.

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

I have served on committees in PCACAC that have put together seminar presentations.  PCACAC is invaluable for renewing one's vision about the profession, especially when one gets depleted from helicopter parenting.  

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

When not working in college admissions, I am active in my private practice. Project SAFE- Strategies Aimed at Family Empowerment- is located on South Washington Street in Alexandria, Virginia.

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

Most people do not know that I initially worked in the stock market after graduating from Georgetown University. It was a hectic time to work in that arena because there were lots of mergers and acquisitions.  Everyday was a roller coaster.

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

I am passionate about the high cost off post-secondary education. It is having a negative effect on educational opportunity.

Profile: Julia Ross

Julia Ross

Professional Tutoring, LLC (Fairfax, VA)

Have long have you been in the college counseling/admissions profession?

21 years, since 1994 when I founded Professional Tutoring, LLC

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

Once I started working with students in tutoring and SAT/ACT preparation, I saw a need to help students really evaluate themselves and search for their college fit.  At Professional Tutoring, we work to help students and families understand that college admissions officers are advocates for students, that they want to admit and retain students and do not act as gatekeepers!!

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

I would definitely advise that new members get involved in everything college admissions.  Visit colleges, attend admissions seminars and tours, sit in on classes, particularly the freshman seminar, get to know admissions officers, join and attend as many NACAC and AACRAO conferences as possible.  Research, study and learn.  And, be open to new ways of learning, leading, interacting. 

What is your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

One of my favorite memories is receiving a call on April 30 from a senior named Brandon.  We had been working with Brandon since July.  Brandon was stubbornly trying to fit his round peg into a square college hole.  All year long, we had said, “please, please, please visit this college.”  He just would not budge.  So, on April 29, Brandon finally visited “our” choice college.  He called us on April 30 to say, “Mrs. Ross, I LOVE Ole Miss!  Why didn’t I know that I would like it so much?”  Brandon is a senior this year, majoring in business.  He is a leader on campus, president of his fraternity, Sigma Pi, and headed to a bright future.   

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

Before beginning in the education field, I worked in urban planning for the Federal Government.  I graduated from UVA with my Masters of Urban Planning in May and launched Professional Tutoring that September.  I cannot imagine not working with young people; if I had to choose another profession, I would return to the dynamic world of urban planning.

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

This is a loaded question!  Seriously, though, our family is dedicated to international causes and children.  Between us, we speak six languages and speak Spanish and English at home.  We have also hosted 26 foster children, medical exchange and exchange students since 1994. 

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

I am really interested in the changing landscape of affirmative action.  I think that we, as admissions professionals, need to be able to support students on their socio-economic circumstances and opportunities, or lack thereof, rather than on their race, religion, etc. 

Profile: Eli Clarke

Eli Clarke, MSW

Director of College Counseling

Gonzaga College High School (DC)

How long have you been in admissions/college counseling? Share your journey story!

I have been in admissions and college counseling for 24 in total (8 years admissions, 16 years at my current school).

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?

I got started at my Alma Mater Loyola University New Orleans...I had no clue what being an admissions counselor really was so when I was told I would be traveling for the school, I was really surprised and was proud to represent Loyola to people all over the US.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?

The memory that pops up automatically for me was when I was in admissions working with a young woman and her mother on financial aid matters and after a long process, it all came together. I remember talking to both of them in my office detailing the package and when all was said and done (and many questions and clarifications), the mom asked me "is it ok if I give you a hug?" 

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

Advice - if you start getting involved on any level, it can be such a rewarding experience on so many levels. Just volunteering at check-in or scanning people into sessions can open the door to many other opportunities so always be open to helping out whenever you can. 

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

I don't know what I would be doing...that's a scary thought as I have been doing this a long time. I did have a dream of being a game show host early on in my life. 

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

I can still be such a kid at times - there are times I will come home after a long day at Gonzaga and play video games on my Xbox (yes its weird but I find killing zombies or pirates very relaxing)

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

I think we as a profession need to deeply explore the affordability and financing college education issue...it become a bigger component every year and we all have families now across the board who not only can't afford but make blanket decisions about even looking at schools they think they cannot afford. I get concerned that this line of thinking prohibits the notion of best fit for students and families and rightly so in many instances. We have to explore any and all areas where we can make college affordable for everyone.

Profile: Mandy Williams

Mandy Williams

Program Coordinator for Regional Recruitment

Virginia and Washington, DC

Office of Admissions, Undergraduate 

West Virginia University (WV)

How long have you been in admissions/college counseling? Share your journey story! 

I have worked as a college admissions counselor for 13 years.

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions? 

After I graduated from WVU, I was working in the hospitality industry at a resort in Morgantown. After realizing the hospitality industry was not what I wanted to do, I started searching WVU’s web site and found a job description for an admissions counselor. It sounded like me, and I had such a great experience there as a student, I thought I would give it a shot. Thirteen years later, I still love sharing my experiences and knowledge about higher education in general, and specifically about WVU, with prospective students and families.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory? 

I recently had an upperclassman contact me and thank me for my help during the admissions process. He is a senior in our Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources and is getting ready to graduate. He mentioned that I was one of the first contacts he had with WVU and how happy he has been with his decision. It was so wonderful and rewarding to hear from a current student who is both happy and successful.

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

I would recommend getting involved with both organizations—volunteering or serving on committees, attending the annual conferences, and making connections with current leadership within the organizations.

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

I really enjoy working as a college admissions counselor, but if I had to make a change, I would try school counseling at the secondary level or do a 180 and pursue a career in travel and tourism.

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

I was a Girl Scout and loved being involved in every part of the organization.

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

Services and college awareness geared toward first-generation college students, especially in rural areas. I am a first-generation college student, and I know how challenging and overwhelming attending college can be without support. Also, my experiences recruiting in rural parts of both West Virginia and Virginia have shown me how much college awareness is still needed with this particular student population.

Profile: Mike Johnson

Mike Johnson

School Counselor

West Potomac High School (Alexandria, VA)

How long have you been in admissions/college counseling? Share your journey story!  

I’ve been a high school counselor for 9 years, beginning at Thomas Dale High School in Chesterfield County (VA). I also counseled two years at Warren County High School in beautiful Front Royal (VA), and have been at West Potomac High School in Alexandria (VA) for the past three years. My formal education has all been within PCACAC territory – Western Albemarle H.S. in Crozet (VA), JMU for undergrad, and VCU for my M.Ed.  I am a career switcher, having also served in the federal courts for 14 years as both a judge’s courtroom clerk and in IT.  Although the courts and the schools are in many ways almost polar opposites of one another, I love both professions!

How did you get started in college counseling/admissions?  

I owe much of the joy and fulfillment that I get from college counseling to Evelyn White, my director at Thomas Dale. During the first week of school she strongly encouraged me to sign up for the Blue Ridge Mountain College Tour.  I did, I went, and I was immediately hooked in the college counseling part of my profession – it remains far and away the most favorite part of my job as a high school counselor!  I have been a member of PCACAC ever since that tour.

What's your favorite admissions/counseling memory?  

Wow, there are several… okay, a LOT!  These memories tend to come back to one common theme though – witnessing the hard work of some amazing teenagers during their high school years pay off in big ways, whether it be admission to the college of their dreams, scholarship offers, or both.  The fall after my first year of counseling at Thomas Dale I was at a football game at UVA and saw one of my former students playing in the band. When he saw me he pointed at me and exclaimed to his friends, “That’s my high school counselor – the person who got me into UVA!”  Although humbled by his gratitude, I reminded him that his four years of hard work and effort got him there – I just helped with the sales pitch!  He is now finishing up medical school.

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

Do it. There are opportunities abound to serve our profession and have a good time doing it in PCACAC. The networking with colleagues from both sides of the desk is invaluable, and really a must to do our jobs well on behalf of our students and applicants. Don’t know where to get started? Reach out to anyone you see on the website or to any colleague you know who is part of PCACAC, and you’ll be on your way!

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

I work on the high school side, and have long had a strong interest in pursuing a switch to the college side of the desk.  Any time I’m in a college environment, my inner voice tells me, “This is where you belong!”.  One day, perhaps!  Having grown up in a family in which my stepfather’s profession was with an educational travel company, I am also drawn to that field.

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

My ‘moonlighting’ job for three years was as a member of the grounds crew for the Washington Nationals. Like a lot of kids growing up playing Little League baseball, I dreamed of making it to ‘The Show’.  Well, pounding and picking up clay from the pitcher’s mound wasn’t exactly what I had in mind as a 10 year old, but it was still a thrill to be on the field before, during, and after games – especially the year they made the playoffs.  One pre-game when preparing the mound I took a pause, looked around at the crowd filling the stands, stood on the rubber, and stared down at home plate.  I was embarrassed when I noticed the assistant head groundskeeper saw that brief moment – but he just laughed and said, “Mike, I do that all the time!”

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

There are so many trending issues that we are faced with on both sides of the desk. I’m still kind of a technology nerd, and get that from my job at the federal court, where our Clerk made it a point to keep us on ‘the edge’ of technology.  Thinking of, developing, and working with technology that makes processes more efficient and accurate are keen interests of mine – I’ve been the unofficial ‘tech person’ in each school in which I’ve worked!

Special Program...Reply ASAP

As part of the Potomac and Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling (PCACAC) Admission Practices (AP) Committee’s desire to proactively promote ethical practices, we will be sending out monthly “case studies.” In these cases, we will offer a situation and discuss whether the issue is in compliance with NACAC’s Statement of Principles of Good Practices (SPGP). If you have a question about a situation or SPGP, please contact a member of the AP Committee.

December Case: The following e-mail arrived in Sally Student’s inbox, “Dear Sally, Congratulations on your admission to Holiday University. In the holiday spirit, we have a gift for you! Our Workshop Engineering Department noticed your great efforts in your school’s maker space club. Therefore, we would like to offer you a scholarship of $5000 and a space in the Workshop Engineering Department. Space is limited. Please reply by sending in your enrollment deposit. Congratulations, Jolly Admission Director.”  Sally brought the letter to her counselor. Is this situation compliant with NACAC’s SPGP?

Discussion: While this case may look easy to those familiar with NACAC’s SPGP, there are actually two issues. According to Mandatory Practices II. B. 3, “All postsecondary members agree they will permit first-year candidates for fall admission to choose among offers of admission and institutionally-affiliated financial aid and scholarships until May 1, and state this deadline explicitly in their offers of admission, and not establish policies nor engage in practices whose effect is to manipulate commitments prior to May 1.”

Issue 1: Does Holiday University give Sally until May 1? The answer to this is unknown. For this reason, alone, the counselor should complete a NACAC confidential complaint form to alert the Admissions Practices Committee. Please note, May 1 applies to all programs and institutionally-affiliated financial aid and scholarships even though the Workshop Engineering scholarship/program might be managed through a different part of Holiday University.

Issue 2: Does Holiday University explicitly state whether the enrollment deposit is refundable? The Interpretations section of NACAC SPGP II. B. 3 states, “offers of admission must clearly state whether deposits submitted by students prior to May 1 are refundable or non-refundable.”

Conclusion: Holiday University may or may not be operating with good principles. However, this e-mail does not clearly communicate that fact which makes the e-mail an apparent violation.