October 1, 2025

Myth of the “Perfect College” with Kasey Urquídez

Many students have their heart set on a specific college from early in the admissions process. But this week's guest makes the case that remaining flexible will help students ensure a positive outcome from their college search.

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About the Episode

In this episode, Senior Director of Higher Education at ACT Kasey Urquídez challenges the myth of the “perfect college” and stresses that students can succeed at a wide range of institutions, not just brand-name schools. She also explains why major selection, transferable skills, and micro-credentials are increasingly important as the workforce evolves, and highlights how initiatives like Workforce Pell are expanding affordable pathways through short-term and skills-based programs.

She also gives some pointers to families navigating the admissions process, suggesting that they start conversations early about values, goals, and finances and use tools like the College Scorecard to stay informed. She suggests exploring pathways like community colleges and transferring schools. She closes the episode with some predictions about the future of higher ed.

Mentioned in This Episode

Guest

Myth of the "Perfect College" with Kasey Urquídez

Dr. Kasey Urquídez currently serves as Senior Director for Higher Education at ACT and is a nationally recognized leader with over 30 years of experience in strategic enrollment management. Previously, as Chief Enrollment Officer/Vice President, Enrollment Management at the University of Arizona, she led transformative initiatives across recruitment, outreach, admissions, financial aid, and student success, resulting in a 119% increase in first-year applications, 32.5% growth in enrollment, and greater diversity and academic strength.

Her innovations highlight her deep commitment to access and equity in higher education. Dr. Urquídez also serves on the Board of Directors for NACAC and the Coalition for College, and has held leadership roles with Womens Foundation for the State of AZ, AZ Women in Higher Education, and the College Board. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona, master’s degrees from Chapman University and U of A, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University.

Host

Will Geiger

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut.Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.