Dr. Christina Dryden: Helping Students Choose College Well

Episode DescriptionHow do students really choose a college—and what do families often overlook?In Part 1 of this conversation, Dr. Michael Cottam and Dr. Christina Dryden explore how students make college decisions, what criteria matter most to them, and why the true value of higher education goes far beyond rankings and prestige.Drawing from Christina’s experience as a Vice Provost, assessment leader, and parent, this episode examines college choice through a human lens—focusing on formation, learning how to learn, relationships, and preparing students for a lifetime of change.Key TopicsHow students evaluate colleges differently than parents expectGraduation rates, fit, and hands-on learningWhy rankings often matter more to institutions than studentsThe deeper return on investment of higher educationEducation as preparation for the eighth job, not the firstGuestChristina Dryden Vice Provost, American College of Financial Services Explore the AI Course Design Accelerator at www.engagedbydesign.comJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education