The College Admissions Process Podcast 322. University of Kansas - Scott Anderson - Admissions Representative
🎙️ In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, I'm joined by Scott Anderson, Admissions Representative at the University of Kansas (KU). A KU alumnus, proud Kansan, and longtime educator, Scott shares his insider knowledge and infectious enthusiasm for all that KU has to offer.
From test-optional admissions and merit scholarships to mental health support, campus safety, and Jayhawk spirit, this episode is full of valuable information for students, families, and counselors navigating the college search.
🎓 Highlights Include:
✅ Straightforward Admissions Process
- Test-optional and GPA-based admissions.
- No required essays or letters of recommendation unless appealing a denial.
- Optional short answer: "Why do you want to go to college?" — for insight, not evaluation.
🎯 Scholarship Strategy
- Merit scholarships awarded automatically based on GPA.
- In-state: Up to $5,000/year
- Out-of-state: Up to $16,000/year (brings cost close to in-state level)
- Apply by December 1 for top consideration!
- FAFSA not required, but strongly recommended.
- Stackable with local/private scholarships — a key opportunity for families to reduce cost.
🌍 Geographic & Student Diversity
- About 45% of students come from outside Kansas
- Students from all 50 states and 110+ countries
- Strong regional recruitment efforts in cities like Chicago, Dallas, Denver, and Minneapolis
📚 Student Experience & Support
- 88% freshman retention rate (national average is approximately 70%)
- 500+ student clubs, including unique ones like Flapjacks & Lumberjacks 🥞🪓
- Writing Center, Career Center, and full academic advising
- Hawk Link and TRIO programs for first-gen and underrepresented students
- Mental health resources, psychological services, and Safe Ride 🚐 — a 24/7 transportation service for students
🏈 Athletics & Campus Energy
- 16 Division I sports, including national championship-winning basketball 🏀, Big 12 women’s soccer ⚽, and a revitalized football program
- New $450M football stadium and conference center opening soon
- Jayhawk pride is real: KU has 400,000+ alumni worldwide, and a campus culture that’s truly “Rock Chalk” proud
🏛️ Tradition + Fun = Balance
- “College isn’t just about getting a degree — it’s about having an amazing experience,” says Scott
- A dynamic, welcoming, and inclusive university where students want to return early
- “It’s easier to make a big school feel small than a small school feel big” — and KU proves it
🔑 Top 3 Tips from Scott Anderson for Students & Families:
📅 Start Early
Don’t wait — apply early, especially by scholarship deadlines. Get it done in the summer so you can enjoy senior year.
🔍 Find the Right Fit
Focus on academic, financial, and social fit. Ask: Does this school offer what I want? Can we afford it? Will I thrive here?
🧭 Visit Campuses
Don’t choose a school you’ve never seen in person. Visit, visit, visit. The vibe on campus matters — talk to students, eat in the dining halls, see if it feels right.
🗣️ Final Thoughts:
Whether you're looking for a top-notch academic program, a spirited Big 12 experience, or a place where you'll be welcomed and supported, KU just might be the right place for you. And after hearing Scott’s passion and honesty, you’ll understand why students come for the education but stay for the community.
🎧 Tune in, take notes, and don’t forget to Rock Chalk Jayhawk!
University of Kansas Admissions
https://admissions.ku.edu/apply
https://admissions.ku.edu/visit
https://admissions.ku.edu/profile/scott-anderson
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👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚
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Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
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