Your college journey doesn’t have to follow a straight line, and today’s guest is living proof.

On this episode of ScholarScoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Lizeth Gonzalez Smith from the University of Maryland’s Smith School of Business to talk about how non-traditional educational paths can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

From starting at community college to working in accounting, mortgage banking, and now connecting students with employers, Lizeth’s career is all about adaptability, networking, and maximizing opportunities. She shares why employers are increasingly hiring from diverse academic backgrounds, and how early engagement with career services can give you a huge advantage.

Whether you’re a student, parent, or mentor, this conversation will help you see the power of flexibility, the importance of soft skills, and the lasting impact of building meaningful professional connections.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How community college can accelerate your degree and save you money
• Why human interaction still matters in a tech-driven job market
• The top skills employers want that you can start building now
• How to connect with alumni and professionals for career opportunities
  
  

How much of your college education happens outside of class? In this episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with higher education leader and executive coach Dr. Julie Staggs, Managing Principal at Beyond Theory to Practice, to talk about the realities of college life, career readiness, and leadership development.

From her time at Converse College to roles advising Fortune 100 companies, Julie shares her personal journey from aspiring music conductor to corporate executive and leadership consultant. For Julie, 70% of her personal growth happened outside of the classroom, and today she gives us the scoop on how to become adaptable in your career, and the crucial skills employers want most, including communication, problem-solving, and innovation.

Whether you’re in high school deciding on your future, a college student preparing for the workforce, or someone guiding young people, this episode offers practical advice on selecting the right college, making the most of campus life, and cultivating essential career skills.

Tune in for insider strategies to navigate higher education, career shifts, and personal development from an industry expert who has coached executives and advised leaders across the globe.

What if the career path you planned isn't the one you're meant to pursue? Helene Scott is an organizational psychologist and career development expert who transformed an unexpected career pivot into a fulfilling journey helping others find professional clarity. On this episode of ScholarScoop, host Steve Loflin gets some Scholar Scoop on why self-awareness and authenticity are your greatest professional assets.

Originally aspiring to be a therapist, Helene shares how challenging internships led her to shift gears, earning a Master's in Organizational Psychology from Columbia University and building a dynamic career in HR, consulting, and executive coaching. Today, she supports young professionals, leaders, and mission-driven organizations in aligning personal values with career choices, navigating workplace cultures, and approaching job searches intentionally.

Whether you're a student exploring career options, a recent grad searching for your ideal role, or someone supporting young adults on their journey, this conversation provides actionable advice on tailoring resumes, interviewing authentically, understanding company cultures, and using self-awareness to thrive professionally.

Key takeaways:

• How to pivot successfully when career plans change
• The value of understanding workplace culture and company values
• Practical tips on customizing job applications and following up professionally
• Why aligning your role with your values makes everyday work meaningful

Ever felt uncertain about your career path? Or overwhelmed by society’s definition of success? In this episode of ScholarScoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Brian McAllister, co-founder of Roadtrip Nation, a nonprofit dedicated to humanizing career exploration through storytelling. Brian shares his journey from a spontaneous post-college road trip to building an organization that has helped hundreds of students explore careers aligned with their true passions and interests.

From the first time they met at a career conference to discussing the importance of authenticity, experiential learning, and embracing a non-linear path, Steve and Brian offer profound insights for anyone navigating their future. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, or someone seeking personal growth, tune in and discover how to define your own version of success with intention and confidence.

🎧 Tune in for some ScholarScoop about how curiosity, momentum, and authenticity can lead to opportunity.

Today we’re thinking about success outside of the traditional box. On this episode of ScholarScoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Jeff Summer, former Board Chair of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, a former partner at Deloitte, and current managing partner of Nexus-OD, to explore the value of education beyond conventional routes.

Jeff’s journey is far from typical: from construction worker and restaurant manager to psychology student and eventually an influential management consultant and entrepreneur. He shares powerful lessons about pursuing your interests, adapting to various professional environments, the necessity of mentorship, and the impact of philanthropy.

If you’ve ever wondered about creating your own path or turning your curiosity into a fulfilling career, this conversation is filled with insights to inspire your next move.

Join Steve and Jeff as they challenge conventional career narratives and offer a refreshing take on finding purpose and fulfillment in your professional life.

What does it take to start over, and truly thrive? On this episode of ScholarScoop, Steve Loflin sits down with Dwayne Wiggins, President Emeritus of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) at Full Sail University and founder of "A Human. Being!" coaching. Dwayne shares his journey of returning to college in his early 30s, overcoming personal challenges, and discovering his purpose as a passionate advocate for mental health, leadership, and education.

From navigating his path in higher education to becoming a powerful voice for mental wellness, Dwayne discusses the transformative role NSCS played in his life. Steve and Dwayne explore essential topics like prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and creating supportive spaces for vulnerability. Dwayne’s remarkable story highlights the strength of perseverance and the power of second chances, proving it's never too late to rewrite your story and positively impact others.

Tune in for an honest conversation that offers valuable lessons on resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of putting your mental health first.

Welcome to Scholar Scoop! Join our host Steve Loflin, founder of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, as he connects students and recent grads with the mentors, leaders, and innovators who’ve shaped his journey. This isn’t just another success podcast—it’s your backstage pass to real stories, honest advice, and powerful connections to help you thrive in college, career, and life.

In this special episode of ScholarScoop for Mental Health Awareness Month, host Steve Loflin sits down with Alison Malmon, Founder and Executive Director of Active Minds. Alison shares her personal journey of turning tragedy into a transformative national movement after losing her brother Brian to suicide during his freshman year at the University of Pennsylvania.

Steve and Alison discuss the evolution of mental health conversations over the past two decades, the unique challenges high-achieving students face, and practical strategies for creating supportive environments. Hear powerful insights on early intervention, destigmatizing mental health struggles, and leveraging campus resources like the impactful “Backpack Project” and the ASK model.

Whether you’re a student, educator, or advocate, this conversation highlights the importance of mental health support in achieving personal and academic success.

Learn more about Active Minds at activeminds.org.