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.

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.

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.