Destination Success - Transfer Tips Decoded

In this episode of Destination Success, Erika and Jennifer sit down with Lindsey Lake-Hawkins of Ohio University to discuss all things transfer student success. Drawing on her professional experience, Lindsey shares how the transfer landscape has evolved, where students tend to encounter challenges, and how colleges and universities can do a better job supporting transfer students. From first-generation student experiences to institutional barriers and the advice students need but don't always receive, this conversation explores what it takes to make the transfer journey more accessible, seamless, and successful. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with practical advice, fresh perspectives, and a few fun personal questions along the way!

What if your bachelor's degree could come with $0 in tuition and free books? 👀   In this episode of Destination Success: Transfer Tips Decoded, Jennifer Mack and Erika Miller sit down with Samantha Shear, Executive Director of Franklin University's Community College Alliance Program, to announce an exciting new opportunity for community college transfer students: 22 full-tuition scholarships for the 2026–27 academic year! Samantha breaks down who is eligible, what the scholarships cover, how to apply, important deadlines, and the three scholarship opportunities available to students transferring from Franklin's community college partners.   If you're finishing, or have already completed your associate degree and are thinking about your bachelor's degree, this episode is one you won't want to miss!   Your associate degree got you here. Let's talk about what comes next.   Ready to apply?  Pathway Portal Scholarship: https://connect.franklin.edu/register/PortalScholarship CCA Partnership Scholarship: https://connect.franklin.edu/register/PartnerScholarship CCA Education Scholarship: https://connect.franklin.edu/register/EduScholarship

In this episode of Destination Success, Erika and Jennifer sit down with Rebecca Dillon, a current student at Clark State and Franklin University, to talk all things transfer credits and student success. Rebecca shares her firsthand experience navigating credits between Clark State College, Franklin University, and StraighterLine—and how she's making the most of every opportunity along the way. From practical strategies for maximizing transfer credits to her personal tips for staying organized and prepared, Rebecca offers valuable advice for students looking to streamline their academic journey. Whether you're just starting out or planning your next step, this conversation is packed with insights to help you stay on track and reach your goals.

What happens when you put higher education professionals on the spot and ask them to choose between two impossible options?   In this special live episode of Destination Success, Erika and Jennifer take the podcast on the road to the Ohio Transfer Council Annual Conference for a fun, fast paced game of Transfer This or That! From Transfer Pathways or Transfer Scholarships? to AI Advisor or Human Advisor? and the all important free parking or free coffee? conference attendees had to make their choice and then defend it!  We're also excited to feature a response from the conference's keynote speaker, Manny Smith from EdVisory who joined the fun with his own memorable pick.  The result is a collection of candid opinions, unexpected hot takes and plenty of laughs from professionals working every day to improve transfer student success.     

In this episode of Destination Success, Erika and Jennifer sit down with Aseret Loveland from Illinois Valley Community College to explore the power of partnerships across state lines and how they open doors for student success. As someone who works closely with TRIO students and advises on transfer pathways, Aseret shares how early planning can make all the difference. From building strong academic foundations to taking advantage of support programs like TRIO Programs, this conversation highlights practical ways students can stay ahead and maximize their opportunities. Tune in to hear insights on starting early, staying informed, and leveraging cross-institution partnerships to create a smoother, more successful transfer journey.

In this episode of Destination Success, Erika and Jennifer sit down with an AI leader Tim Goetz from Central Ohio Technical College. Tim explores how colleges are using artificial intelligence to better support students and improve campus operations. We discuss the challenges institutions are trying to solve, the biggest barriers to implementation, and three AI initiatives every university should consider. We also look ahead to what campuses might look like in 10 years, share one AI tool everyone in higher ed should try, and tackle the big question, could AI ever replace professors or student support staff? Plus, we end with a fun, personal question you won't expect!

In this episode of Transfer Tips Decoded, transfer leaders Herbrina and Jamie from Tri-C share practical insights on how students can successfully navigate the transfer process. From starting early and asking the right questions to understanding how transfer saves time and money, the conversation highlights the power of strong partnerships and student-centered planning. The key message? Transfer isn't a setback — it's a smart strategy when done with the right support. Erika and Jennifer also talk with Herbrina and Jamie about the upcoming Ohio Transfer Council Conference being held at Franklin University June 11th and 12th. Link to register, https://ohiotransfercouncil.wildapricot.org/Conference-&-Events. 

In this episode of the Destination Success Podcast, Erika and Jennifer sit down with Sarah Lathrop to explore her educational journey and career in higher education. Sarah shares where she went to college, the degrees she earned, and the various roles she's held along the way — offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at life across different areas of education. Together, they dive into common mistakes students make, often-overlooked resources that can make a big difference, and the unique challenges transfer students face. Sarah also reflects on what she would do differently when choosing a school and how she pushed through her toughest subject in college. This episode is packed with practical advice, honest insight, and encouragement for students navigating their own academic paths.

In this episode of Destination Success, we sit down with Reuel Barksdale from Columbus State Community College as he reflects on impact, leadership and transformation in higher education.  Reuel shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the lessons learned from serving students and the legacy he hopes to leave as he prepares for the next chapter of his life. With retirement on the horizon, Reuel opens up about his future plans--including the possibility of writing a second book.  We also dive into his first published work, Lessons Beneath the Mask:  From Pain to Promise, exploring the experiences and insights that inspired the book and the powerful messages it continues to deliver. Join Erika and Jennifer for a thoughtful, uplifting conversation about purpose, transition and the ongoing journey toward success. Find Reuel's book here:  https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Beneath-Mask-Pain-Promise-ebook/dp/B06XYS1Q9F/ref=sr_1_1?crid=CTXTGAXLOWA9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.acg9zv8eBhMSbqbgF4cs1DnF2VPIm5mXwCHXhyE4-9aXWk538AWKzRce5QJrNkGiyrYRAkM2ATEnDNgue6QbE_FUAI5MCIffk3LamH8aO3Q8RojBRMlk8CtOx4TCcZDRSAEIxJoTU0yyJuCvZ9t0CpzYXEKXellgMDXoSViHelUKMhLXcBiMDI1thQkoRRDfbgwQejaYOXqprcfBPgyhUwdBjolBrlbOLje7UMDf5Q0.X7FC9W5lH0ojf5Nxjf7oxCkmMmaIHfiiHkyge-N2rD4&dib_tag=se&keywords=reuel+barksdale&qid=1765401582&sprefix=reuel+barksdale%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1

On this episode of Destination Success, hosts Erika and Jennifer welcome Maureen Cooper for an informative conversation about College Credit Plus (CCP). Together, they break down what it means to be a CCP student, how to successfully balance high school and college coursework, and the resources available to help students thrive. Whether you're considering CCP or already enrolled, this episode offers practical guidance to help you navigate the journey with confidence.