Education abroad is not just “travel.” It is a high-impact learning experience shaped by the current realities of U.S. higher education: student mental health, belonging, political polarization, affordability, global awareness, career readiness, and the role of faculty and staff in helping students make meaning across difference. While co-leading an undergraduate education abroad program in Europe, Student Affairs NOW host Heather Shea connected with four students, a faculty co-leader, and a program assistant to discuss the importance of education abroad in a changing higher education landscape. Together, they reflect on identity, history, learning, and student development while exploring how education abroad can help students better understand themselves, others, and their place in an increasingly interconnected world. Read More
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What if everything you've been told about picking the right college major is wrong? In Hacking College, Ned Scott Laff and Scott Carlson argue that the obsession with choosing the "right" major has left generations of students with what they call "empty college degrees." Find out how students can stop jumping hurdles and start hacking the college game. Read More
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In this episode, a higher education housing professional reflects on a career shaped by intentionally seeking joy in both everyday moments and unexpected opportunities. He shares how investing in personal passions and relationships sustains his energy and strengthens his effectiveness at work. He encourages young professionals to define success beyond burnout, recognize small wins, and build routines that prioritize purpose and fulfillment. His message is simple: joy isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you create. Read More
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What does student affairs work really look like at a community college? From helping a first-generation student find their footing to supporting a working parent juggling classes and life, to guiding professionals with previous degrees to upskill and pursue different career paths- community college student affairs leaders and teams meet students where they are. Their work is hands-on, deeply relational, and shaped by a commitment to removing barriers and opening doors- it is truly love, justice, and humanity work. If you’ve ever wondered what makes community colleges feel so connected and responsive, this conversation offers a window into the educators who make it happen. Read More
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In these times of sustained and coordinated assaults on the mission and values of higher education, the Alliance for Higher Education is trying to bring a fragmented higher education industry together into a coalition with agency. Learn about the Alliance and how we can push back on the regressive legalism to help higher education move closer to our aspirations from our current realities. Read More
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In this episode, Jackson Tidwell shares a powerful story of enforcing an unpopular policy that, in the face of a looming hurricane, proved to be lifesaving. What felt rigid and frustrating in the moment became a clear reminder that policies aren’t about control—they’re about care. It’s a compelling look at leadership, trust, and the purpose behind the rules we’re sometimes called to uphold. Read MoreMeet the six student affairs educators who host the #SAnow podcast episodes every week, bringing to you the most current topics in the field of student affairs.
Mom, chocolate enthusiast, Bollywood fan, and student affairs educator based in Austin, Texas
Mamta’s Bio
Associate Dean for Faculty and Student Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer for the Graduate School of Education
University at Buffalo
Raechele’s Bio
Associate Dean of Students
University of California, Berkeley
Glenn’s Bio
Speaker, Author, and Coach at
KeithEdwards.com
Keith’s Bio
Director, Pathway Programs in Undergraduate Student Success
Michigan State University
Heather’s Bio
Associate Professor & Program Coordinator
Colorado State University
Susana’s Bio
Director of Campus Living & Learning at Texas A&M Galveston
Neil’s Bio
Director of Residence Education and Housing Services at Michigan State University
Helena’s Bio
Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
J.T.’s Bio
