What a Rookie Dean Learned in His First Year
I just listened to an episode of Admissions Beat that I found so insightful, I thought I would share its key takeaways with all of you.
Host Lee Coffin was joined by Logan Powell, Dartmouth’s former dean of admissions, who just wrapped up his first year as Brown University’s dean of admission. Together, they unpacked what it’s like to lead an admissions office, especially during one of the most unpredictable, post-pandemic admissions cycles ever.
Here’s what stood out:
1. Admissions Is a People Job (Not Just a Paper One)
Logan Powell reminds us that reading thousands of files is only one piece of the puzzle. Being a dean means leading a team, building trust, and helping others navigate uncertainty, especially with test-optional policies, AI, and shifting yield trends.
Takeaway for students: There are real people on the other side of the application. They care. A lot.
2. The Job Is Getting Harder...and More Human
Both deans note that the last few years have brought huge changes. Powell says admissions offices today have to make decisions with less data (like test scores or class rank) and more ambiguity. In his words, “It’s more art than science.”
Tip: Don’t stress about gaming the process. Instead, focus on communicating who you are, clearly and authentically.
3. Leadership in Admissions Means Making Peace with the Unknown
Coffin and Powell talk candidly about leading teams when nobody has a perfect map. Whether it’s responding to the Supreme Court decision on affirmative action or adapting to new applicant behaviors, today’s admissions leaders need flexibility, humility, and calm.
So what? Even top deans are learning as they go. That should take a little pressure off you.
4. The Energy Is Back
After years of COVID disruption, Powell noticed something refreshing: more students visiting campus, more in-person excitement, more joy. He reminds listeners that college is still supposed to be fun, and applying doesn’t need to be all stress and strategy.
Their final advice: Don’t forget to enjoy the process. Ask big questions. Stay curious. And remember: every application is a new story waiting to be read.
We are here to guide you through this process, answer any questions, and help you craft your most authentic application. Schedule a call here to learn more.
Best of luck,
Melina Kazanas
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