296. NC State University - Jon Westover - Associate Vice Provost & Director of Admissions

🎙️ In this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Jon Westover, Associate Vice Provost & Director of Admissions at NC State University 🌟. This engaging conversation dives into what makes NC State unique, its admissions process, and invaluable advice for families navigating the college application journey. Whether you're considering NC State or looking for insights into the admissions process, this episode is packed with essential takeaways for students and parents alike!

🔑 Top 4 Takeaways from Our Conversation

1️⃣ Exceptional Academic Programs and Interdisciplinary Learning Opportunities

• NC State stands out for its innovative academic offerings like engineering, life sciences, textiles, and design 🛠️🌿🎨.
• The university encourages students to blend fields of study, fostering innovation through programs like interdisciplinary research projects and dual majors 📚✨.
• Who thrives here? Students with a curious mindset and a desire to solve real-world problems in a collaborative environment.

2️⃣ Financial Aid and Opportunities for All Students

• In-state and out-of-state tuition structures differ, but NC State offers competitive scholarships to make education accessible for out-of-state students 💵🌍.
• Scholarships include merit-based awards and unique opportunities for students in specialized fields 🏆.
• NC State is dedicated to providing financial resources to students, ensuring accessibility for all backgrounds.

3️⃣ A 94% Retention Rate: Support for Student Success

• NC State boasts a 94% freshman retention rate 🎉, showcasing its strong commitment to helping students thrive.
• Transition programs, mentorship opportunities, and extensive academic and personal support services are available to ensure students feel connected and supported 🎓❤️.
• The university values student well-being and provides resources tailored to diverse learning and personal needs.

4️⃣ Insights into the Holistic Admissions Process

• NC State takes a holistic approach to admissions, valuing academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and personal stories ✍️📄.
• The admissions team looks beyond GPA, reviewing transcripts for academic trends and rigor while recalculating GPAs to align with their standards.
• Engaging essays and personal statements are a chance for applicants to stand out. Jon shares what NC State looks for and offers tips to craft a compelling narrative ✨🖋️.

📍 About NC State University

• Location: Raleigh, North Carolina 🌳🏙️.
• Enrollment: Over 37,000 students, with representation from all 100 counties in North Carolina, all 50 states, and 120+ countries 🌎.
• Rankings: Ranked among the Top 10 Public Universities for ROI (Return on Investment) by Payscale 💼.
• Innovation: A leader in research, home to the Centennial Campus, which fosters partnerships with industry leaders like Red Hat and SAS 🧑‍💻🤝.

School Spirit: The NC State Wolfpack is legendary for its athletics and campus traditions 🐺❤️🤍.

NC State University - Undergraduate Admissions

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