The first day of college can be overwhelming for anyone. Just navigating the campus is a common challenge - but what if you'd never even set foot on a high school campus before? What if you'd never experienced traditional education until today? This is what homeschoolers are faced with on their first day. Or is it? This week, Dr. Ross and (homeschooled) cohost Ashley Worley tackle some of the myths and misconceptions of becoming college-ready as a homeschooler. Joining them are two formerly home...
Apr 18, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 6
Veterans have some important decisions to make regarding their next steps after military service. Whether it's entering the workforce in a new field, returning to a university, or attending college for the first time, there's lots to navigate during this pivotal transition. We're here to help. This week, Dr. Ross and cohost Ashley Worley sit down with two veteran students to unpack the experience of going back to "the civilian world" after serving. Benjamin Broyles, who served six years in the A...
Mar 28, 2025•54 min•Season 2Ep. 5
It's official. With student producers Nathan Witt and Michaela Murphy passing the torch, there's a new voice on the podcast: sophomore Mass Communications student, Ashley Worley! Join Dr. Ross and her new co-host in an introductory sit-down chat. In typical ADR fashion, they find much more to discuss than your standard icebreakers. The conversation ranges from get-to-know-you questions to discussions about media impact, transitioning from homeschool to college, and the evolving landscape of AI. ...
Mar 14, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 4
The first week of freshman year can be overwhelming - but what about week two? Or three? Or eight? By the time you've reached mid-semester, it can feel like a sink or swim situation. That's why Dr. Ross and producer Michaela Murphy are checking back in with their freshman guests from episode one. In the thick of their first semester, Dominic Robinette and Mary Mooney share firsthand experiences with freshman year. Whether it's switching majors, adapting to an independent lifestyle, or struggling...
Mar 07, 2025•47 min•Season 2Ep. 3
As an undergrad, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when considering the next phase of your education. After all, what is graduate school like? Why add more years of college? And - most importantly - how do you know if it's right for you? In this episode, Dr. Ross and producer Michaela Murphy team up with current grad students to tackle these, and other, important questions. Join Psychology major Caitlyn Walker and English major Caroline Goodman in exploring the life of a grad student. Whether you're...
Feb 28, 2025•42 min•Season 2Ep. 2
The transition from high school to college can be scary. There's lots to navigate in your freshman year, from dorm life to academic advising - and we're here to unpack it all. Join Dr. Ross and producer Michaela Murphy in discussing the freshman experience with four first-year UT Tyler students: Dylan Bennet, Paula Castellanos, Mary Mooney, and Dominic Robinette. Together, they share stories of their freshman year journeys and the unfiltered realities high school grads face. Whether it's moving ...
Feb 21, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 1
How does sensationalist media shape our political outlook and contribute to a widespread sense of hopelessness? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Kenneth Bryant, an associate professor of political science, as we dissect the impact of mass media on American politics. Inspired by the 1976 film "Network," Dr. Bryant shares his insights on the media's obsession with conflict and scandal, and we explore the cyclical nature of societal pessimism. Equip yourself with tools for critic...
Jun 18, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 14
Experience a powerful exploration of economic resilience and hope within the college journey, as I, Dr. Katherine Ross, join forces with Professor Susan Doty. Together, we dissect the contemporary economic landscape faced by students, from inflation woes to job market competitiveness. We offer a dual perspective that acknowledges the challenges, yet shines a light on the opportunities that higher education still promises in today’s world. Our mission is not just to dissect the issues but to empo...
Apr 23, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 13
Ever wondered if artificial intelligence could grade your college essays better than your professor, or do we risk losing the essence of critical thinking in the process? Hold on to your hats as we explore the fascinating world of AI, its ethical implications, and its far-reaching impact on higher education. Be prepared for a thrilling discussion on the good, the bad, and the ugly of using AI in higher education, and a verdict that might just leave you pondering! As you journey with us, you'll u...
Nov 09, 2023•34 min•Season 1Ep. 12
How well have you strategized your college journey? What are you doing to ensure you're not only surviving but thriving during these transformative years? Episode 11 of our podcast features an enlightening conversation with Professor Vanessa Joyner and student Elena Gonzalez, who share their wisdom and personal experiences on successfully navigating college life. From goal setting to effective time management and the indispensable role of good counseling – this episode promises a treasure trove ...
Oct 09, 2023•51 min•Season 1Ep. 11
It's a common misconception that some students are just "made" for online learning and some just aren't. Digital classes take a different skill set, but they are obtainable for any student. The number one skill is self-discipline. UT Tyler's Associate Provost for Online and Continuing Education, Dr. Poonam Kumar, Ph. D., sits down with us to talk about online education.
Sep 13, 2023•39 min•Season 1Ep. 10
UT Tyler professors Dr. Catherine Ross, Ph.D., and Dr. Belinda Deal, Ph.D. take a deep dive into what "Belonging" looks like for college students today with Associate Dean of Students and licensed professional counselor Kim Livingston-Cobb. Specifically, how mental health plays a role in a student's ability to fit in and how they can make realistic improvements in their lives.
Aug 15, 2023•49 min•Season 1Ep. 9
The hosts of ADR sit down with Dr. Joe Berthiaume, PhD who has spent his entire career in campus housing and currently serves as UT Tyler's Executive Director of University Communities. There are a lot of important things to consider when it comes to your college living experience. First, make sure you pick a spot that you're going to be comfortable in. Take into account all the amenities. Lastly, for the parents, don't hover!
Jul 12, 2023•44 min•Season 1Ep. 8
Tuition can feel like a big scary number. Understanding all the "hidden gems" that are included in that cost can help make sense of the price. You're getting a lot more than classes! Keep in mind, every college is different. If you want to know exactly what your school offers, we suggest visiting their website or contacting the admissions office. Here are some of the resources we found for our college, UT Tyler: UT Tyler Student Accessibility and Resource (SAR) OfficeLinks to an external site. (...
Jun 19, 2023•22 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Professors and students at UT Tyler sit down for an honest round-table discussion about the things every new college student should and shouldn't do. Speaking in this episode: Professor of History, Dr. Colin Snider, PhD Professor of English Literature, Dr. Catherine Ross, PhD Mass Communication Student, Noah Tew Mass Communication Student, Nathan Witt
May 26, 2023•47 min
UT Tyler's Joshua Neaves and Cameron Long join us to discuss the concept of belonging. We explore what it is, how to find it, and how it looks different in the ever-evolving landscape of higher ed. Have questions about college you want answered? Email us at ADRquestions@gmail.com
May 16, 2023•33 min•Season 1Ep. 5
A UT Systems Summit has determined Advising is one of the three main pillars of student success! Here's everything you need to know.
Apr 23, 2023•21 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Everyone likes options. Many roads lead to the destination of happy adulthood.
Apr 03, 2023•20 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Understanding FAFSA, grants and scholarships can be the key to avoiding student debt. Hear from experts. 529 Plan- https://www.sec.gov/about/reports-publications/investor-publications/introduction-529-plans Find Your College's Net Cost Calculator- https://collegecost.ed.gov/net-price
Apr 03, 2023•16 min•Season 1Ep. 3
Parents, this episode is for you. It's never too soon to start preparing your child's future.
Apr 03, 2023•29 min•Season 1Ep. 2
"Ask Dr. Ross" answers the important and nagging questions parents and potential college students raise about higher education. Topics include preparing for college, avoiding student debt, and secrets to good grades. Hosted by award-winning professor Catherine Ross, Ph.D., and student Nathan Witt, listeners can ask their own questions by emailing AskDrRoss@gmail.com. Dr. Ross's 25 Actions to Adulting 1. Keep your mind on your reading 2. Decode difficult materials 3. Notice significant details 4....
Apr 03, 2023•10 min•Season 1Ep. 1
