After hitting submit on your college applications and celebrating with the Common App confetti, the work isn't quite over yet. In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck guides students and parents through the critical next steps of the college admissions process, highlighting common mistakes to avoid—such as ignoring emails or assuming documents arrived automatically.

To ensure a complete application file, Chuck shares six essential action items: carefully reading college confirmation emails to set up individual admissions portals, tracking application checklists for missing materials like test scores or transcripts, prioritizing financial aid requirements like the FAFSA and CSS Profile, reading all communications from top-choice schools, keeping an eye out for separate scholarship deadlines, and regularly checking application portals (ideally on Friday afternoons) for updates, additional document requests, or admissions decisions.

In this episode of Don’t Chuck It Up, host and college counselor Chuck sits down with former student and University of Nebraska-Lincoln Senior, Ben, to discuss the out-of-state college search process, navigating higher education admissions, and transitioning from a small high school to a major Big Ten university.

Tune in as Ben shares his journey from initial fixation on in-state options to discovering the ideal college fit. He discusses managing ADHD and dyslexia in college, joining Greek life, and pursuing his passion in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications with a major in sports media and communications and a minor in coaching. Whether you are a high school student navigating college applications or a parent exploring campus visits, this episode offers valuable insights into finding academic support, exploring modern e-sports programs, and making the most of the ultimate college experience.

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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.