Don't Chuck It Up - College Search and Application Process

Chuck Erickson - Independent Educational Consultant and College Counselor

Don't Chuck It Up is your go-to podcast for college admissions guidance. Hosted by Chuck Erickson, this show helps students and parents navigate applications, essays, financial aid, scholarships, campus visits, test prep, and more. Each episode features actionable advice and expert guests to reduce stress and increase success. Whether you're aiming for a big university or a small liberal arts college, this podcast gives you the tools to make smart, informed decisions. Tune in and don’t chuck it up—your college future starts here!

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#112
Friday · 44 min
Small College Right for You? Navigating the College Search with a Student-Athlete at St Olaf Ep 112
In this episode, host Chuck catches up with his former student Calvin Keesler, a fifth-year senior at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, to look back at his college search and athletic journey. As a high school student juggling baseball and multiple career interests, Calvin ultimately chose St. Olaf—a picturesque, undergraduate-focused liberal arts college nestled on a scenic campus hill—for its incredible academic support, strong community vibe, and chance to play varsity baseball. Calvin shares how his unique path as a kinesiology major on a pre-dental track allowed him to complete dental prerequisites while pursuing hands-on research, including a biomechanical analysis project with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He also highlights the value of St. Olaf's financial aid and career center funding, which helped support his summer internship opportunities away from home. Ultimately, the episode offers an encouraging look at how small private colleges can successfully balance rigorous academics, athletics, and personalized mentorship for students navigating the college admissions process.
#111
October 9 · 43 min
From NorCal to Hoosier Nation: A Journey to Indiana University Ep. 111
This episode of the Don’t Chuck It Up podcast features host Chuck, a friendly college counselor, catching up with his former student Sam Buono. Sam, a Northern California native and former multi-sport high school athlete, reflects on his journey from an all-boys Catholic high school to becoming a second-year undergraduate at Indiana University (IU). During high school, Sam initially struggled to find a major—considering options ranging from fire science and journalism to history—before realizing he could combine his love for athletics and science into a degree in kinesiology and exercise science. Guided by Chuck through a wide-ranging college search, Sam balanced his preferences for school size, athletic culture, and financial considerations. Ultimately choosing IU over options like CU Boulder, Sam shares his experiences adjusting to Midwestern weather and culture, handling roommate transitions, participating in campus life—including club Jiu-Jitsu, Greek life, and the Intracollegiate Emergency Medical Service (ICEMS)—and preparing for a future career in physical therapy.
#110
October 2 · 42 min
The "YES" Approach to Higher Ed: Combining Athletics, Academics & Internships at the University of Akron ep. 110
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck Erickson sits down with Cassie Cunningham, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at the University of Akron, to unpack why this midsize public research university in Northeast Ohio is a top hidden gem for higher education. Highlighting the university's motto of "Yes", Cunningham explains how students can pursue flexible academic pathways without sacrificing experiential learning, affordability, or vibrant campus life. The conversation showcases unique degree programs—including Polymer Engineering, Sports Analytics (in partnership with the Cleveland Browns), Criminal Intelligence Analysis, and Applied Artificial Intelligence—alongside real-world opportunities like Formula One design teams, study abroad research, and hands-on nursing clinicals. Through compelling student success stories, the episode demonstrates how the University of Akron blends Division 1 athletics, career co-ops with major industry employers, and dedicated faculty support to prepare students for college admissions and future career success. https://www.uakron.edu/ : For more information on Akron
#109
September 25 · 41 min
Navigating Non-Traditional College Paths | Ep 109
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck speaks with Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski (Orlowski College Consulting) about supporting non-traditional students through the college admissions process. Highlights: • Who is Non-Traditional? Beyond adult learners over 23, this includes homeschooled students, online degree seekers, gap-year takers, and anyone taking an unconventional path. • Flexible Degree Options: Exploring part-time college, accelerated 3-year bachelor's degrees, and credit for work experience. • Transcripts & Financial Aid: Why you must submit transcripts from every school attended—and why admissions offices are forgiving of past academic bumps. • The Community College Advantage: Using local colleges to reset GPAs, gain accommodations, and successfully transfer to a 4-year university. No matter the detour, there is always a clear path to finishing your degree! #CollegeCounseling #HigherEducation #NonTraditionalStudents #CollegeApplicNonation #TransferStudent
#108
September 18 · 43 min
Supporting Neurodivergent & College-Bound Students | Ep. 108
In this episode of the Don't Chuck It Up podcast, host Chuck sits down with Dr. Eric Endlich—a clinical psychologist, independent educational consultant, and founder of Top College Consultants—to discuss navigating the college search and transition process for neurodivergent students, including those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and executive functioning challenges. The conversation dives deep into the critical distinction between getting admitted to college and true college readiness, emphasizing how non-academic independent living skills like time management, self-advocacy, and daily routines often determine long-term success. Dr. Endlich explains the differences between legally mandated, fee-free disability accommodations and specialized, comprehensive support programs that offer dedicated executive functioning coaches and peer cohorts, while also tackling the cost considerations and alternative options like external academic success coaching. Beyond campus support systems, the discussion highlights practical steps parents and high school students can take to build confidence and independence well before move-in day. The hosts explore how high schoolers can leverage their genuine special interests—whether through unique hobbies, summer programs, or digital portfolios featured on college applications—to stand out in admissions without needing to fit the outdated mold of a "well-rounded" student. Finally, Dr. Endlich highlights the value of post-grad gap years and summer bridge experiences, explaining how giving a student's brain extra time to mature can help them explore career paths, develop essential life skills, and ensure they thrive once they arrive on campus.
#107
September 11 · 39 min
Are You College Ready vs. College Capable? Advice for Neurodivergent Applicants Ep 107
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck Erickson sits down with independent educational consultant Gerene Keesler (owner of Admissions Untangled) to demystify the college search for neurodivergent students, including those with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and hidden learning differences. Highlighting her own journey of being diagnosed with fetal autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy while in college, Gerene shares powerful insights on shifting from feeling ashamed to embracing accommodations early on. Together, they offer crucial college planning advice for parents and students navigating disability services, exploring campus accessibility, and distinguishing between being "college capable" and truly "college ready". From practical campus tour strategies—like asking current students about professor accessibility and test-driving physical campus layouts—to managing FERPA privacy rights and emergency contact plans, this discussion equips families with the tools to reduce stress and find the right higher education fit. Whether you are a high school student learning to self-advocate or a parent supporting a student with unique learning styles, this conversation illuminates how accessibility offices, virtual info sessions, and reasonable accommodations in housing and academics can transform the college transition into an empowering experience. By taking proactive steps—like securing accommodations before freshman year starts and exploring tailored writing workshops—families can skip the "first-year slump" and build a seamless path toward college success.
#106
September 4 · 52 min
When the Simple is Complex: Executive Function and College Prep for Gifted Teens (with Mark Talaga) Ep 106
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck sits down with Mark Talaga, a licensed professional counselor and director of the Center for Identity Potential, to discuss navigating the college search and transition process for gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2E), and neurodivergent students. They dive deep into the unique challenges these complex learners face—especially asynchronous development, where high academic capability masks critical gaps in executive functioning, emotional regulation, and independent living skills. The conversation reframes gifted education as a form of special education, highlighting why traditional college prep often falls short for students whose "simple is complex and complex is simple." Packed with actionable college admissions strategies and parenting tips, the episode explores how families and high school counselors can proactively set neurodivergent teens up for post-secondary success. Mark Talaga and Chuck discuss practical solutions like gap year programs, practicing real-world tasks (such as drafting emails to professors or doing dry-runs of campus navigation), utilizing accessibility offices, and shifting focus from GPA perfection to long-term well-being. Whether you are a parent supporting an intense learner or a counselor looking for targeted student guidance, this episode offers vital insights into removing shame, building executive function skills, and choosing the right college fit for asynchronous students.
#105
August 28 · 50 min
The Ultimate ACT & SAT Prep Guide: Timelines, Test-Optional Rules, and Score Boosting Ep 105
Navigating the modern college admissions process doesn't have to be overwhelming, and in this episode of the Don't Chuck It Up podcast, host Chuck Erickson teams up with test prep expert Eric Rath (founder of Rath Tutoring) to demystify ACT vs. SAT prep, changing test-optional policies, and effective college entrance exam strategies. Aimed at helping high school students and parents reduce stress, the discussion breaks down how test-optional landscapes are shifting in 2026, why high schoolers shouldn't fear being "bad test takers," and how selecting the right standardized test comes down to student preference rather than regional myths. From creating a realistic 15-month test prep timeline and managing study burnout to treating standardized testing like a skill-building sport rather than an IQ test, this episode delivers actionable college planning advice to help families build confidence, maximize scores, and smoothly navigate the journey to higher education.
#104
August 14 · 18 min
Making College Admissions Fun: Finding Fit Without the Panic Ep 104
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck Erickson reframes the high-stress college application process as a season of discovery, drawing inspiration from educational expert Dr. Steve Antonoff's belief that finding a university should be an enjoyable, low-stress journey. Addressing common pain points like college search anxiety, parental pressure, and chasing prestige over true college fit, Chuck emphasizes that stress leads to flatter essays and student burnout. To transform the college admissions journey, he advises families to shift their mindset by focusing on curiosity-driven college exploration, using tools like Antonoff's College Match workbook, and building open-minded lists. To make navigating higher education options less overwhelming, the host shares actionable college visit tips, such as sampling dining hall food, chatting with current students, and exploring local campus towns. He further urges parents to manage their own college planning stress by designating specific, limited times for family college discussions, celebrating small progress milestones, and maintaining non-college-related quality time with their teens. By keeping campus research low-stakes and treating the journey like a marathon rather than a sprint, families can achieve better long-term admissions outcomes and preserve their well-being.
#103
August 7 · 20 min
Choosing a College Major 2.0:Myths, Career Paths, and Undecided Majors Ep 103
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck addresses the widespread anxiety surrounding choosing a college major, reassuring students and parents that a chosen field of study is merely a flexible starting point rather than a rigid life sentence. Highlighting how social media has pushed options like business administration into becoming default "safe majors," Chuck counters this trend by sharing his own non-linear academic journey—shifting from Spanish and music education to higher education admissions—and recounting a case study of a pre-med applicant who ultimately pivoted to film production and media arts. He emphasizes that a student's degree program does not dictate their ultimate career path, encouraging families to evaluate institutions based on flexible curriculum structures, interdisciplinary double major and minor opportunities, and seamless internal major-change policies rather than institutional rankings or prestige. Addressing a common misconception in the university application process, Chuck reassures listeners that applying with an undecided major or as a multi-interested applicant does not harm an applicant's admissions chances. Drawing from his tenured experience as an Associate Director of Admissions, he explains how higher education institutions evaluate undecided students and advises families to focus on holistic self-reflection and academic exploration. Wrapping up the episode, Chuck highlights the show’s milestone growth on podcast analytics and YouTube, invites audience suggestions for upcoming industry-specific episodes (covering STEM disciplines, nursing, and business), and announces the launch of the "Don't Chuck It Up College Admissions Community" Facebook group for ongoing enrollment strategy discussions.
#102
July 31 · 19 min
Natural Disasters, Illness, & College Apps: What Admissions Officers Want You to Do ep 102
What happens when an unexpected crisis hits right in the middle of college application season? Whether you are dealing with a natural disaster, personal illness, or family emergency, life doesn't always pause for deadlines. In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck draws on 25 years of college admissions experience to share essential, stress-free strategies for navigating the admissions process when life gets tough. Learn how to request application deadline extensions, communicate proactively with admissions counselors without raising red flags, and effectively use the Common App's Additional Information section to explain grade dips or missed school. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why your health, safety, and well-being should always come before application deadlines. How to reach out to college admissions offices for grace, extra time, or accommodations. How to write a short, factual statement for the Common App's Additional Information section to contextualize past hardships. Why you shouldn't rewrite your personal statement during an active crisis. How your high school counselor can advocate for you during hard times. Don't let panic derail your college journey—colleges want an honest picture of your life, not a flawless one. Tune in to discover how to protect your peace of mind while keeping your college dreams on track!
#101
July 24 · 22 min
College Application Essay Dos and Don'ts: Finding Your Authentic Voice Ep 101
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck draws on his 25-year higher education background and experience reading over 25,000 Common App essays to relieve the high-stakes pressure surrounding the college application essay. He busts the myth that students need an earth-shattering topic or an overly sophisticated, thesaurus-heavy vocabulary to impress admissions officers who often spend just a few minutes reading each application. Instead, Chuck reassures families that the best essays focus on simple, authentic moments and highlights five practical tips: start with a small specific detail rather than a generic opening, write in a natural conversational voice, focus on the "lens" or perspective rather than finding a dramatic topic, emphasize deep reflection over listing accomplishments, and read the draft out loud to catch awkward phrasing. Ultimately, the episode encourages rising seniors to view the essay not as a high-pressure performance review, but as a genuine opportunity to share their true voice. By trading polish and perfection for vulnerability, students can write an essay that helps them find a college where they will actually thrive rather than just a brand-name fit.
#100
July 17 · 16 min
100 Episodes of College Admissions Advice: What I’ve Learned as an Independent Educational Consultant
Celebrate a major milestone with the 100th episode of the Don't Chuck It Up Podcast! In this special edition, host Chuck Erickson—an experienced independent educational consultant and former college admissions professional—reflects on a decade of helping families successfully navigate the high school to college transition. High school juniors, seniors, and parents know firsthand how stressful the college search and application process can be. To help ease that anxiety, Chuck dives into the vital role that relationships and gratitude play in higher education success, sharing personal, real-world stories of how simple acts of appreciation can leave a lasting impression. Whether you are wondering how to thank a teacher for college recommendation letters, looking to acknowledge a supportive high school counselor, or wanting to stand out to admissions representatives, this episode delivers actionable advice on the power of a handwritten thank-you note. Discover how showing genuine gratitude can strengthen crucial networking connections, open unexpected doors, and ultimately help students find their perfect academic and social college fit. Tune in to learn why the college journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and how acknowledging the mentors who support you along the way can transform your entire experience.
#99
July 10 · 29 min
The Real College Admissions Trends You Need to Know (NACAC Data) Ep 99
In this episode of the Don't Chuck It Up Podcast, host Chuck breaks down the most critical, data-driven insights from the recent Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) conference in Chicago. Pulling from the newest NACAC (National Association for College Admissions Counseling) report on the 2025–2026 application cycle, this deep dive uncovers a surprising reality that directly counteracts mainstream media panic: the national average acceptance rate actually climbed to 73%. Chuck explores the growing "perception gap" between what families think matters most—like standardized test scores—versus what university deans actually prioritize, such as rigorous high school curriculum strength, college prep courses, and positive character attributes. Whether you are navigating test-optional policies or trying to understand how the looming demographic enrollment cliff impacts regional financial aid, this episode provides the strategic clarity needed to avoid prestige anxiety and build a balanced list. We also unpack emerging shifts in student enrollment, including the sharp rise in community college and dual enrollment paths, a surging interest in health professions, and a notable decline in international applications that could open unexpected domestic admission spots. From the absolute reality of demonstrated interest in a post-AI world to the heavy reliance on early decision and self-reported grades, this episode equips high school students, parents, and independent educational consultants with actionable advice for the upcoming application season. Don't leave your college admissions strategy to guesswork—tune in to learn how to focus on academic, social, and financial fit to confidently say yes to the right university.
#98
July 3 · 45 min
Affordable, Inclusive, and Top-Tier STEM Majors: Demystifying ELCA Colleges 98
In this episode, we are diving deep into a hidden gem of higher education: the network of ELCA colleges and universities. Joining the show is Lamont Anthony Wells, Executive Director of the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities, to break down what makes these 28 campuses across the U.S. and Canada so unique for families navigating the college application process. A common misconception about private Christian colleges is that you must belong to the faith to attend, but ELCA schools operate on a philosophy of being "rooted and open." This means that while they are grounded in supportive, progressive values, they offer a highly diverse, safe, and inclusive campus environment that welcomes students of all backgrounds—including Jewish, Muslim, and secular students—while providing exceptional support for first-generation college students. If you are looking for the best small private colleges that balance personal growth with academic rigor, these schools deserve a spot on your list. Rather than just handing you a degree, ELCA institutions focus on helping students discover their "vocational identity"—their true purpose and calling in the world. Beyond their strong liberal arts foundations, these campuses boast top-tier, high-demand STEM majors, including competitive engineering, biomedical research, and nursing programs. They are vibrant spaces designed to foster critical thinking, career readiness, and community wellbeing so that every student can truly flourish. Check out the link in our show notes to explore the ELCA network website and find the perfect college fit for your future!
#97
June 26 · 48 min
Stop Waiting to Be Found: How Student-Athletes Can Market Themselves to College Coaches Ep 97
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck sits down with Reid Meyer, founder of A2A Academy and a member of the Student Athlete Advisors, to break down the complex world of college athletic recruitment. This conversation serves as an essential, hype-free resource for high school student-athletes aiming to play at the next level, as well as parents looking to navigate the process without the stress. Together, they explore everything from elite Division 1 pathways to the massive financial and academic benefits of D2, D3, or club sports, emphasizing the importance of finding a holistic fit where students can thrive academically, socially, and athletically. By tackling burning family questions around athletic scholarships, mass exposure camps, and milestone-driven timelines, this episode shifts families from a reactive mindset into a proactive strategy. Listeners will walk away with actionable advice from "Project 1.docx" on how high school athletes can advocate for themselves, market their skills directly to coaches, and select a university where they will succeed both on and off the field.
#96
June 19 · 45 min
Demystifying College Gap Years with the Gap Year Association Ep. 96
In this episode of the Don't Chuck It Up Podcast, host Chuck sits down with Jason Sarouhan, the interim executive director of the Gap Year Association, to demystify the concept of college gap years and experiential education. Far from just "taking a year off" to sit on the couch, a purposeful gap year or "gap time" is an intentional journey focused on personal growth, hands-on learning, and building essential life skills before or during higher education. Jason Sarouhan explains how taking a structured break to volunteer, complete internships, or travel internationally can ignite a student's love for learning, foster maturity, and provide critical career clarity. For parents worried about academic momentum, research shows that a college deferral for gap time actually makes students more motivated, independent, and self-aware by the time they arrive on campus. To help families navigate college planning, the Gap Year Association serves as a trusted, non-profit resource offering a database of rigorously vetted gap year programs. Whether a student is interested in a domestic wilderness expedition, conservation, or career-focused urban tracks like digital media and cooking, the GYA website filters options based on safe, accredited standards. Many programs even offer college credit options that allow families to utilize 529 savings plans, providing a scaffolded, supportive bridge that sets young adults up for long-term collegiate success.
#95
June 12 · 49 min
Why Your College Search Should Be Messy (with Dr. Steven Antonoff) Ep 95
Are you feeling overwhelmed by college admissions deadlines, shifting prestige and rankings, and the pressure to find the perfect school? In this episode of the Don't Chuck It Up podcast, host Chuck sits down with Dr. Steven Antonoff, a legendary independent educational consultant and former dean of admissions, to make the college search process painless and positive. Together, they tackle the biggest mistakes families make, including the hazardous trap of relying solely on the U.S. News & World Report top 20 list. Dr. Antonoff shares expert advice on how to build a balanced, realistic college list based on your unique student's learning style rather than just a brand name, reminding listeners that 75% of U.S. colleges have under 5,000 students and offer incredible, thriving environments. Whether you are a parent trying to figure out how to help your child choose a college or a student wondering if you should look beyond the Ivy League, this episode is a must-listen. Chuck and Dr. Antonoff dive deep into the history of Colleges That Change Lives, discuss the true value of higher education, and explain why a "messy" college planning process is completely normal. Tune in to discover how to focus outward on your student's needs, understand campus culture, and confidently navigate the road to college acceptance without breaking a sweat!
#94
June 5 · 49 min
College Admissions Stress: Why Your GPA Isn't a Life Sentence Ep. 94
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck sits down with veteran educator, adjunct professor, and performing arts professional Kristi Ross-Clausen to dismantle the intense anxiety surrounding high school GPAs and college admissions. Drawing from her extensive background in K-12 teaching, technical theater pedagogy, and grading SAT essays, Kristi shares why standard letter grades and rigid test scores are merely a single-day snapshot—not a life sentence. Together, they dive into the flaws of the traditional academic bell curve, compare unweighted vs. weighted scales, and explore how a mastery-based approach to learning can build true student confidence. Whether you are trying to understand how colleges evaluate a 3.0 vs. a 4.0 GPA within different high school contexts, looking for strategies to improve writing and communication skills naturally, or simply needing permission to prioritize sleep over perfection, this conversation offers a refreshing, human perspective on navigating higher education without losing your peace of mind.
#93
May 29 · 24 min
The "Secret" Strategy for College Admissions (It’s Not What You Think)
Are you stressing out trying to build the "perfect" college resume? 🤯 Between TikTok rumors and elite college rankings, it’s easy to feel like you need to invent a new product, start a viral non-profit, or host a TED Talk just to get into a great school. In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, Chuck busts the "passion project" myth. He shares a heavy-hearted truth straight from a Dean of Admissions at a highly selective university: colleges aren't actually looking for manufactured, flashy resumes. Instead, Chuck dives into two real-life stories of everyday high school students—one who started a rural book drive with handmade bags, and another who taught himself to fix a broken fishing boat using YouTube. Both of these students stood out to top engineering programs, not because they did something flashy, but because they showed real grit, curiosity, resourcefulness, and empathy. 4 Key Takeaways for Your College Search: Authenticity is the strategy: Colleges want to accept real people who will engage with their campus community, not just a list of accomplishments. The ordinary is extraordinary: You don't need to climb Mount Kilimanjaro; you just need to act intentionally on the things you care about in your own community. Notice what you’ve already done: Start keeping a journal or a note on your phone to jot down your proudest moments, "aha" insights, or problems you solved on your own. Ask better questions: Parents and counselors need to shift the focus by asking students, "What have you done that no one asked you to do?". 🎉 Big Announcement! Stick around until the end of the episode to hear Chuck's exciting news: he has been awarded the prestigious Bob Dannenholz Service Award from the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) for his decade-plus commitment to helping underserved, first-generation, and marginalized students navigate the college application process! Your challenge this week: Write down three things you’ve done in the past year that absolutely no one asked you to do. You might just find your next great college essay topic. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with a family navigating the college application journey!

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