The 92 Report

Will Bachman

Conversations with the Harvard and Radcliffe Class of 1992, hosted by Will Bachman '92. Every member of the class has a story to tell, and the goal is to interview every one of them. There are 1,600 members of the class, so at a rate of one episode per week, this project will take 30 years. Register for email updates at 92report.com

  1. 5d ago

    178. Mara (Beverwyk) Christine, Librarian, Teacher, Lawyer

    Show Notes: Mara Christine (formerly Mara Beverwyk) describes her circuitous path, starting with a job at the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) in Berkeley, followed by a role in the Oakland public library system. She pursued a library degree in Michigan and returned to New Mexico, where she worked as a school and research librarian. She transitioned to teaching at a Montessori elementary school, earning her certification, and later went to law school at age 46, becoming a prosecutor. A Career Move to Law Mara explains  what drew her to the law, and she cites her midlife crisis and the political climate under Trump as major factors. Mara was inspired by ACLU attorneys helping people affected by the Muslim ban and wanted to expand her impact beyond her Montessori school. She continued teaching while attending law school, commuting long distances, and eventually decided to focus solely on law due to the wear and tear on her truck. Passing the Bar and Working at a Nonprofit Mara describes her law school experience as energizing, with a supportive community and accessible professors. She initially focused on environmental justice but faced challenges, including a stroke and a toxic workplace, leading her to a role in disaster law with New Mexico Legal Aid. Mara discusses the challenges of passing the bar exam, including multiple failed attempts. She eventually passed the bar in 2022 and initially worked with an environmental justice nonprofit but found it a toxic workplace. From Disaster Law to District Attorney Mara transitioned to disaster law with New Mexico Legal Aid, helping communities affected by wildfires and other climate-related issues. She was laid off after 10 months due to funding fears under the Trump administration and faced a difficult job search in her 50s. A long-time friend encouraged her to apply for a position as a district attorney, which she found fulfilling and aligned with her passion for public interest law. The Expectations and Reality of being a Prosecutor Mara explains her role as a district attorney, focusing on helping communities with issues like violence, addiction, and domestic violence. She enjoys being able to support victims and perpetrators through rehabilitation programs and community services. Mara describes the differences between her expectations of being a prosecutor and the reality, noting the importance of constitutional rights and evidence. She also mentions her role in teaching police officers how to write better criminal complaints and ensure legal procedures are followed. Mara reflects on the importance of being a compassionate prosecutor and the support she receives from her colleagues. Life Lessons as a Librarian and Teacher Will asks how Mara's work as a librarian has shaped her legal career. Mara highlights the importance of information seeking and disseminating, which she learned as a librarian and teacher. She emphasizes the value of connecting people with resources and information, a skill she still uses in her legal work. Mara credits her teaching experience, particularly with sixth graders, for building her confidence and public speaking skills. She shares a story about a former student now interning with her, illustrating the long-term impact of her teaching. Knocking on Doors When asked what is one thing she thinks everyone should try, Mara suggests knocking on doors for a cause, describing it as a humbling and educational experience. Mara reflects on the importance of community engagement and learning about neighborhoods and causes through door-to-door campaigning, and sShe shares a compliment she never forgot. Harvard Reflections Mara recalls her freshman English literature survey course and a course on genocide. She fondly remembers her English professor, Helen Vendler, and a professor who shared his personal experience of surviving the Holocaust, both of which had a lasting impact on her. Timestamps: 00:02: Mara Christine's Career Journey  03:49: Transition from Librarian to Prosecutor  09:42: Challenges and Opportunities in Law School  13:58: Experiences as a District Attorney  19:56: Impact of Librarianship on Legal Career  21:52: Fun Questions and Reflections  Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-christine-49b550266/   *AI generated transcript and show notes.

  2. Jul 27

    177. Kiki Snyder, Assigned Karen at Birth

    Show Notes:  Kiki (formerly Karen) Snyder shares her 35-year journey since her breakdown at Harvard, which landed her in restraints at McLean Hospital during exams in 1991. She discusses being misdiagnosed as severely bipolar, the 32 years she lost to toxic psychiatric medications, and the self she rediscovered. "Karen was full of fear and anger. Karen wanted to speak to the manager. But Kiki's in charge now. I am the manager." Learn more about her transformation on Instagram at @assignedkarenatbirth and at assignedkarenatbirth.com. From Karen to Kiki Kiki elaborates on her transformation from Karen to Kiki. A massage therapist specializing in Somatic Experiencing taught Kiki that our brains lie to us, our bodies know the truth. Kiki's body clearly told her it was finally time to leave the zip code she'd lived in for 50 years. She describes the upheaval of uprooting from Northern Virginia to coastal North Carolina after her mother's passing, and the impact of that change on her emotional well-being. Facing Pain and Healing from Trauma Kiki discusses the debilitating effects of the psychiatric medications she was on for 32 years and her work to taper off them. She describes the emotional numbness and exhaustion she experienced while on these medications. Kiki explains how getting off the medications allowed her to process trauma and emotions, leading to a significant personal transformation. She emphasizes the importance of sharing her story to help others who may be going through similar experiences. A Career in Social Media  Kiki recounts her career in social media, including her role at AOL in the early days of the Internet.  She describes her work at VeriSign, where she first discovered Web 2.0, which became social media. Her perseverance in the face of resistance resulted in the founding of VeriSign's social media program. Kiki shares her regret at not even considering the offer to relocate to Silicon Valley when the program she founded was moved there. She now realizes that her fear of not being strong enough was fueled by medications and years of being told she was fragile and sick. She discusses her subsequent role at the Federal Aviation Administration, where she founded their social media program.  Layoffs and Life Changes Kiki shares her experience of being laid off from her dream job at a big ad agency on the same day she moved to coastal North Carolina in 2024. Her entire division was cut, an early wave of workers displaced by AI. She reflects on the impact of the layoff, leading to a significant life change. Spirituality and Synchronicity Kiki talks about her interest in spirituality, metaphysics, and Jung's concept of synchronicities. She talks about sharing her story with the world and the positive responses she has received from others. Kiki discusses her efforts to let go of control, a trait she inherited from her former self, Karen.  A Burner Phone and AI "Therapy" Kiki shares her tips for beating her phone addiction. She installed the BePresent app, which helps her limit wasted time on social media. She recommends Claude, the AI chatbot she uses as a sounding board and where she worked through the grief and anger of losing three decades. And most importantly, a second phone. Every night the real phone stays in the kitchen and the "burner" comes to the bedroom, holding only music, an alarm, and the chatbot. Her advice to anyone trying to put their phone down: Get another phone! Harvard Reflections Kiki reminisces about her favorite classes at Harvard, including Irv DeVore's human behavioral biology class and Helen Vendler's poetry class. She shares her fascination with language and culture, particularly the unique language of Gen Z. Kiki discusses her plans to create new content by translating Shakespeare's sonnets into Gen Z slang. She expresses her excitement about learning and exploring new topics, including spirituality and metaphysics. Timestamps: 04:40: Transformation from Karen to Kiki 08:31: Impact of Medications and Emotional Healing 12:43: Career in Social Media and Early Internet 17:07: Significant Moments in Social Media Career 21:23: Learning and Personal Growth 25:40: Current Life and Habits 30:06: Reflections on Harvard and Personal Interests Links: Instagram: @assignedkarenatbirth Website: https://assignedkarenatbirth.com/

  3. Jul 20

    176. Maya Browne, The Road Not Taken

    Show Notes: Maya Browne recounts her senior year at Harvard, including writing her thesis "Idealizing Vision" which was about how magazine editors, photographers, and designers had shaped the ideal female form in the 20th century, and additionally another was an article for Essence magazine about eating disorders. It was the first article of its kind that drew data from women of color, and it won an award called the Excellence in Media Merit Award (EMMA).   Writing, Modeling, and Playing Violin Maya describes her first job at Details magazine under James Truman, where she handled reader mail and sometimes made-up stories. She shares how she got her job at Conde Nast through a letter from Professor Martin Perez and a meeting with Andre Leon Talley in Paris. Maya describes her side job as a fit model and her transition to working for James Truman at Details. She recounts a call from Jonathan Newhouse offering her a job in London in sales, which she declined to pursue a career in editorial. She shares her involvement in the music industry, playing the violin in music videos and with various artists like James Brown and BB King. Missed Opportunities and Film Experience  Maya discusses her move to Heart & Soul magazine, a fitness and beauty magazine for women of color. She describes her transition to the advertising business in San Francisco and her marriage to Peter Brattander. Maya recounts a missed opportunity to play with Nine Inch Nails at the MTV Awards and her later involvement in the film Ray. She shares her experience of fame and the attention she received after Ray won six Oscars. She talks about her involvement in the film industry and why she left it to go back to business school.  Philanthropy and Transitioning to Business School Maya describes her mentorship at The Robin Hood Foundation, leading to her involvement in philanthropy and with Quogue Chamber Music.  She talks about her work on the board of The Door, a nonprofit for runaway and homeless youth. Maya shares her current work as an educational consultant and her plans to help kids at The Door in the future. She discusses her involvement in the film Brother Versus Brother and her ongoing interest in supporting various projects.  Rituals, Relationships, and Resources Maya updates on her current activities, including playing the violin, writing, and fitness. She shares her experience of meditating and journaling as part of her daily routine. Maya talks about interviewing the rising king of Hip Hop, Puffy Combs, and she recounts a recent experience at Bergdorf Goodman during the Knicks parade and the unexpected encounter with Basketball Wives. She reflects on the importance of rituals, relationships, and resources in her life. Harvard Reflections Maya found the majority of her courses and professors at Harvard hugely influential. She mentions Professor Martin Peretz and shares a memorable experience from a design class where she made up a story to avoid an F and played the violin instead. Maya talks about her current work with Brownstone as an educational consultant and her approach to helping students with college applications. She emphasizes the importance of early conversations about college goals and the sacrifices required for success. Timestamps: 03:59: Early Career in Media and Music  34:43: Transition to Advertising and Film 35:08: Involvement in Philanthropy and Education  35:26: Current Activities and Reflections 38:32: Impact of Harvard and Career Highlights Links: Instagram: @iammayabrowne  Maya's Podcast, Stories from the Brink: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-from-the-brink/id1552888806 D'Angelo "Cruisin'" Video: https://youtu.be/JAfuUZRou7g?si=TmizL6CpKE1Ub3Lk  Brownstone Tutors: http://www.brownstonetutors.com/ Quogue Chamber Music: https://quoguechambermusic.org/ The Door: https://www.door.org/ Interview on Sean Combs: https://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/new-again-sean-puffy-p-diddy-puff-daddy-combs James Brown Video: https://tv.apple.com/us/episode/all-in-the-family/umc.cmc.4knzr9b4kg7gvg0r8zl4dc57w?showId=umc.cmc.30wl2femq05e35uf85r3eks06   *AI generated transcript and show notes.

  4. Jul 13

    175. Chana Gable Selmon, Medicine Without Borders

    Show Notes: Chana Gable Selmon explains she joined Harvard as a transfer student in 1990, overlapping two years with the class of 1992. She graduated in 1993 after completing science requirements due to her history concentration. Chana decided to go to medical school at Cornell, followed by an internship in Emergency Medicine at Bellevue NYU and residency at Harvard. Commuting between Jerusalem and New Jersey Chana had her first child in 2000 and continued working as an ER doctor. She describes her experience as a fourth-year resident at Brooklyn Hospital Center during 9/11. She later  moved to the suburbs with her husband and had four children. Chana and her husband decided to move to Israel for international experience, despite the challenges of practicing medicine in a different language. She commuted between Jerusalem and New Jersey for work until Covid, when she started working in a clinic in the West Bank. Working in the West Bank Chana describes her work in the West Bank as a general practitioner, dealing with patients from diverse backgrounds. She emphasizes the importance of understanding different perspectives and the complexity of the Israel-Palestine situation. She shares her personal connection to the region through her family history and experiences.  A Complex Cultural Heritage  Chana talks about her family's complex heritage, including her grandfather's Yemeni Arab background and her mother's Ashkenazi Jewish roots. She describes the impact of her family's history on her perspective and her desire to connect with different cultures. Chana discusses the challenges of raising her children in Israel and the importance of transmitting her cultural heritage. She highlights the importance of understanding the region's history and the impact of her family's experiences.  Cultural Differences and Challenges Chana reflects on the cultural differences and challenges of living in the Middle East. She describes the warmth and support of people in the region, despite the chaotic environment. Chana discusses the practical considerations of living in Israel, including the impact of political instability. She expresses her pride in her children's dedication to public service and their ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Media Misinformation and Solomonic Problem Chana expresses her frustration with the misinformation spread through social media about the West Bank. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the small size and complexity of the region. Chana discusses the unsustainable nature of the current situation and the need for creative solutions. She calls for more informed discussions and less reliance on simplistic labels and slogans. Harvard Reflections Chana shares her experience as a transfer student from community college, facing opposition from her ultra-orthodox Jewish family. She describes the support she received from Professor Samuel Draper at Rockland Community College who helped her apply to Harvard. Chana mentions JJ Henkin at Harvard, and she discusses her involvement in the history department at Harvard and her participation in the curriculum committee. She also mentions CityStep with Trisha Perez Kennealy, and reflects on the impact of her Harvard education on her career and personal development. A Lifelong Commitment Chana reflects on her decision to stay in Israel despite the challenges and the support of her husband. She discusses the practical considerations of returning to the United States, including her children's education and her aging parents. Chana shares her ongoing interest in history and her commitment to lifelong learning. She expresses her willingness to connect with classmates and share her experiences. Timestamps: 02:32: Balancing Family and Career  06:38: Life in Israel and the West Bank  08:57: Family Background and Cultural Identity  10:44: Challenges and Rewards of Living in the Middle East  34:44: Educational Journey and Harvard Experience  44:13: Impact of Social Media and Misunderstandings  44:30: Personal Reflections and Future Plans  Links: Email:  cselmon@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chana-gable-selmon-2643907

  5. Jul 6

    174. Jenny Davidson, Professor of English & Comparative Literature

    Show Notes: Jenny Davidson describes her continued passion for literature, reading, and writing, her interest in primatology, adventures in Tanzania, and her new hobbies.  Form and Technique in Powerlifting  She details her fitness routine, including powerlifting, running, swimming, triathlon, and yoga. Jenny shares her experience with a longstanding injury affecting her ability to do high-volume aerobic training. Jenny explains the basics of powerlifting, distinguishing it from Olympic lifting. She describes her favorite lift, the deadlift, and the other two main lifts: squat and bench press. Jenny shares her powerlifting achievements, including her recent competitions and her current lifting numbers. She emphasizes the importance of proper form and technique in powerlifting. Health and Community through Fitness Jenny discusses the impact of her exercise routine on her mood and energy levels. She describes how exercise helps her maintain a schedule and provides a sense of community through fitness activities. Jenny shares her experience with yoga and how it has become a significant part of her life. She mentions her weekly private Pilates sessions for therapeutic purposes. A Career in Literature Jenny talks about her career in literature, starting with her graduate studies at Yale. She specializes in 18th-century British literature and has been teaching at Columbia for 25 years. She mentions several books, including Clarissa and Moby Dick. Jenny enjoys teaching a mix of introductory and specialized classes, including comparative European novels and single-author classes. She shares her enthusiasm for teaching complex literary texts and the unique challenges they present.  Recommended 18th Century Literature Jenny recommends Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels and his other prose satires as essential reading. She highlights Frances Burney's novel Evelina and Edward Gibbon's History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. Jenny also recommends Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations and Edmund Burke's Reflections on the Revolution in France. She mentions Laurence Sterne's Tristram Shandy and A Sentimental Journey as accessible entry points to 18th-century literature. The Rise of Literacy Jenny discusses the rise of literacy and popular print in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. She explains how books like Pamela by Richardson were shared among multiple readers, increasing their reach. Jenny notes the evidence of reading among both elite and working-class individuals. She highlights the importance of marginalia and letters in understanding the reading habits of the time. Reading Habits Jenny shares her unusual relationship with reading, being a very fast reader from a very early age. She describes her reading habits, including rereading books she teaches and reading modern novels for pleasure. Jenny mentions her book, Reading Style: A Life in Sentences, which explores her life as a reader. She reflects on the challenges of finding enough reading material during demanding times of the semester. Primatology in Tanzania Jenny discusses her recent trips to Tanzania and her interest in primatology and being influenced by Jane Goodall from a young age. She shares her experience learning Swahili and conducting oral history interviews with Tanzanian field assistants. Jenny plans to create an oral history digital repository at Columbia and potentially publish essays or a book on her findings. She describes her collaboration with a Tanzanian guide, Rama, and their efforts to revive a tree-planting education program. AI in Humanities Education Jenny discusses the potential and limitations of AI in humanities education. She expresses concerns about students using AI for assignments, viewing it as a form of cheating. Jenny shares her positive experience with using AI for transcription of oral history interviews. She emphasizes the importance of creating a quiet mind and immersive reading environments for deep learning. Harvard Reflections Jenny talks about classes with Barbara Johnson, Elaine Scarry, and Writing Narrative History with Simon Schama. She also mentions the class Judith Clara taught on political obligation, and a class called The Development of the Modern State taught by Stanley Hoffman, Peter Hall, and Tom Ertman. Timestamps: 02:21: Powerlifting and Technique  07:45: Impact of Exercise on Personal Life  10:17: Career in Literature and Teaching  13:00: Recommended 18th-Century Literature  13:15: Reading Public in the 18th Century  26:45: Jenny's Reading Habits  29:09: Tanzania Research and Oral History  35:39: AI and Humanities Education  Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/214744151893608/user/112738 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-davidson-a89a7b1b5   *AI generated transcript and show notes.

  6. Jun 29

    173. Teresa Nakra, Exploring Music through Culture, Technology, & Creative Coding

    Show Notes Teresa shares her background as a music major at Harvard, focusing on conducting. She discusses her decision to apply for the Michael C. Rockefeller Fellowship to study Indian classical music in India. Teresa describes her year in India, living with a family and studying North Indian classical music. Exploring Indian Classical Music Teresa explains her experience with the violin, which was introduced to Indian classical music by the Portuguese in the 1500s. She details the differences between Western tonal harmony and Indian classical music, including the use of a drone and melodic improvisation. Teresa describes her daily routine of practicing the violin and taking lessons in the Indian tradition. She mentions her journaling and pen pal correspondence with Rachel Berger who was in Zimbabwe at the same time. Working at MIT Teresa recounts her return to the U.S. and a phone call from Tod Machover at MIT, leading to her enrolment at MIT. She describes her work at MIT, inventing new technologies for music making, including a conductor's jacket with sensors. Teresa discusses her collaboration with Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops, using the conductor's jacket in a concert. She explains the insights gained from the conductor's jacket, including the use of force and muscle tension in conducting gestures. Working as a Freelance Music Technologist Teresa shares her experience as a freelance music technologist and starting her own nonprofit organization. She describes her role as the first music technologist hired in a music department at the College of New Jersey. Teresa explains the different categories within music technology, including audio engineering, digital signal processing, and composition. She discusses the use of digital audio workstations (DAWs) for multi-track composition and recording. She talks about her book and the inspiration behind it.  Personal Habits and Wellness Teresa shares her personal habit of taking regular walks in nature to maintain mental health. She reflects on the importance of wellness habits, especially during stressful times of the year. Teresa also discusses the importance of taking risks and making job changes in mid-career. She encourages others to pursue new opportunities and continue growing professionally. Harvard Reflections Teresa highlights the influence of professors like Graeme Boone and Jan Swafford on her career. She shares her appreciation for their support and mentorship throughout her academic journey. Teresa reflects on the impact of specific courses, and how it inspired her to go to India and her musical interests. She emphasizes the importance of personal connections with faculty members in fostering a love for music. Music that Stands the Test of Time Teresa discusses her personal music listening habits, focusing on classical music, jazz, and world music. She mentions her daughter's influence in introducing her to contemporary music. Teresa reflects on the diversity of her music playlists and her ongoing exploration of new genres. She emphasizes the timeless quality of great music and its role in her personal and professional life.  Timestamps: 02:39: Learning Indian Classical Music 06:48: Return to the U.S. and MIT  13:58: Teaching and Music Technology 19:57: Personal Projects and Publications  23:44: Impact of Technology on Music Education  28:16: Personal Habits and Wellness  30:30: Influential Professors and Courses  34:44: Personal Music Preferences  Links: Teresa's Book (Constructing Music: Musical Explorations in Creative Coding) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0197669190?tag=oxacglobal-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1 Oxford University Press website: https://academic.oup.com/book/55879 Academic Page at Stevens Institute of Technology: https://www.stevens.edu/profile/tnakra *AI generated transcript and show notes

  7. Jun 22

    172. Michael Lim, Physicist, Mentor, Traveler

    Show Notes: Kim Goyette reflects on Michael Lim's  early days at Harvard, starting with their time in Dorm Crew. They met in Lionel Hall and became friends, with Michael being a physics major and Kim a sociology major. Their relationship began tentatively in their sophomore year, with many ups and downs before they officially became a couple by graduation. From Harvard to the University of MIchigan After graduation, Michael went to the University of Michigan for his PhD in physics, while Kim went to Tulane University for her MA in sociology. They maintained their relationship during their separate graduate studies, visiting each other frequently. Eventually, they both ended up at the University of Michigan, where they completed their degrees. Kim shares the challenges and joys of their time in Ann Arbor, including the harsh winters and the support they provided each other. A Move to Philadelphia After graduation, Kim started her career at Temple University, while Michael became a postdoc at the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST). They got married in Washington, D.C., and planned to find a city where they could both work together. They had their first child , and Michael later moved to Philidelphia. Teaching Physics in New Jersey Michael became a postdoc at Bryn Mawr College and later a physics professor at Rowan University in New Jersey. He was dedicated to mentoring first-generation students and built a lab where he conducted experiments with students. Michael established a relationship with a lab in Singapore, bringing students there for summer research experiences. Kim highlights the impact Michael had on his students, many of whom went on to successful careers in physics, and attributed their success to Michael's mentorship and dedication.   Facing Cancer with Courage Michael was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer two years before his death, at the age of 55. The diagnosis came after he experienced gastrointestinal troubles and jaundice. Kim and Michael sought multiple opinions and clinical trials, starting chemotherapy and trying various treatments. Despite the aggressive nature of the cancer, Michael maintained a calm and scientific perspective, viewing his illness as part of natural processes. Michael approached his illness with equanimity, seeing it as part of the natural laws that govern the world. He lived his life without regrets, seizing opportunities and never deferring experiences. Kim shares that Michael was proud of his children and the impact he had on his students at Rowan University.  Pride in Mentorship Michael's final year was marked by his participation in clinical trials and the eventual progression of his cancer. Michael's final days were spent on hospice, with Kim and their family preparing for his death. Kim reflects on the conversations they had, with Michael expressing gratitude for his life and the opportunities he had. Michael was proud of his work at Rowan and the students he mentored, many of whom had successful careers.  Harvard Reflections Kim talks about Michael's role as a Big Brother and how he kept in touch with the boy he spent time with. She mentions how Michael was inspired by the challenge for physics.  Michael J. Lim Memorial Lab Scholarship at Rowan University Kim shares stories of Michael's love for travel, snorkeling, and body surfing, as well as his appreciation for local cuisines. Michael's impact on his students and colleagues was significant, with many expressing gratitude for his mentorship. For all who want to support future students and contribute to Michael's legacy, Kim introduces the Michael J. Lim Memorial Lab Scholarship at Rowan University, established to support students working in a lab. An Invitation to Michael's Celebration of Life Kim has provided an invitation to Michael's Celebration of Life that takes place on Sunday, June 28, 2026, 1-4:30 pm, at Haverford College, located just 8 miles from Philadelphia.  Timestamps:  04:20: Career Beginnings and Family Life  05:45: Michael's Career at Rowan University  09:54: Michael's Diagnosis and Final Year  16:46: Michael's Scientific Perspective and Final Reflections  20:42: Michael's Legacy and Final Days  27:51: Michael's Impact and Memorial  Links: Celebration of Life: https://canva.link/eaxs96ur97sncsm The scholarship fund: https://share.remembermyjourney.com/public-memorials/EaXD4gpz The Scholarship QR code: https://secure.rufoundation.org/s/1653/02-alumni/giving/interior.aspx?sid=1653&gid=2&pgid=4617&cid=7997&dids=1142&appealcode=PLBC

  8. Jun 15

    171. Chuck Hughes, The Road To College

    Show Notes: Chuck Hughes talks about his role on the Harvard Hockey team, being intimidated by recruiting processes and obtaining his teaching certificate while at Harvard. He taught maths, science, and english at a high school. He earned a masters in political science at Boston College.  Working in Harvard Admissions Chuck talks about his transition to Harvard Admissions in 1995, influenced by a friend's job offer in Stanford Admissions. He describes his experiences in admissions, including visits to remote areas like Alaska and interactions with diverse applicants. Chuck highlights his role in admissions, living on campus, and his interactions with notable students like BJ Novak. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of working at Harvard, including the financial constraints he faced despite his role. Moving to Monster.com Chuck discusses his move to Monster.com as a product manager, focusing on high school and college businesses. He shares his experience writing a book about college admissions, What It Really Takes to Get into the Ivy League & other highly selective colleges." At the time, he had not planned to go into education consulting, but the need was there, and Chuck founded his education consulting firm, Road to College, in 2003. The firm helps students navigate the college admissions process. He reflects on the personal and professional challenges of running his own business, including mentoring students and building long-lasting relationships. The Harvard Admissions Process Chuck shares insights into Harvard admissions and explains the difficulty of selecting a class from a large pool of applicants. He talks about changes that affect the process, such as the introduction of technological innovation, and applicants who qualify for financial aid. He mentions the importance of balancing various interests, including academic excellence, athletics, and social diversity, and he highlights the role of financial aid in admissions and the challenges of predicting the future success of applicants. Chuck emphasizes the importance of self-motivation and independence in applicants, rather than being overly influenced by helicopter parents. Student Athletics at Harvard When asked about Harvard's approach to athletics and the financial success of student-athletes, Chuck explains the challenges of maintaining Division I athletic programs while upholding academic standards. He shares his involvement with the Friends of Harvard Hockey and the financial support raised for the program. Chuck reflects on the balance between athletic success and academic excellence, emphasizing the need for special students to excel in both areas. Balancing Family and Work  Chuck shares his personal journey, including his divorce, remarriage, and raising two daughters. He discusses the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal well-being, including his commitment to physical fitness. Chuck reflects on the importance of finding passion and purpose in life, despite the pressures of professional and personal responsibilities. He emphasizes the value of mentorship and relationships in guiding students through the college admissions process. Navigating the College Admissions Process Chuck provides advice for parents and students navigating the college admissions process. He emphasizes the importance of exploring personal interests and developing a clear vision for the future. Chuck discusses the need for intentionality in academic and extracurricular activities, balancing ambition with realistic goals. He highlights the role of mentors and advisors in supporting students through the admissions process. A Focus on Education Consulting Chuck describes his approach to education consulting, focusing on mentorship and personalized guidance. He emphasizes the importance of understanding each family's unique needs and goals. Chuck discusses the challenges of working with motivated students who may face rejection despite their efforts. He reflects on the satisfaction of helping students find success and achieve their academic and career aspirations. Fundraising for Harvard Hockey Chuck shares his ongoing involvement with Harvard Hockey, serving as the lead fundraiser for the program. He discusses the importance of alumni engagement and the role of donations in supporting the program. Chuck reflects on the challenges and rewards of working with student-athletes and maintaining connections with the university. He emphasizes the value of community and collaboration in achieving success in athletics and academics. Harvard Reflections Chuck mentions Psychology of Law with Ellsworth Fersch and Greg Nash.  Timestamps: Transition to Monster.com and Education Consulting  06:00: Insights into Harvard Admissions 13:15: Harvard's Approach to Athletics and Financial Success  21:45: Chuck Hughes' Personal Journey and Entrepreneurial Ventures 27:12: Advice for Parents and Students 28:45: Approach to Education Consulting  34:30: Personal Development Habits 43:55: Harvard Reflections Links: Company website:  www.roadtocollege.com

See All (177)

5
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Conversations with the Harvard and Radcliffe Class of 1992, hosted by Will Bachman '92. Every member of the class has a story to tell, and the goal is to interview every one of them. There are 1,600 members of the class, so at a rate of one episode per week, this project will take 30 years. Register for email updates at 92report.com

Information

  • Creator
    Will Bachman
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    177
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    The 92 Report

You Might Also Like