Clear, practical advice on how non-traditional learners can shine in the college admissions process, with Wade Arave and Michele Evard.
Admissions officer Wade Arave and homeschool specialist Michele Evard join us to break down what colleges actually look for from non-traditional applicants. They offer clear, practical guidance on how to present portfolios, essays, recommendations, and lived learning experiences in ways admissions teams can understand.
This conversation takes the mystery out of the application process and helps families craft authentic materials that reflect who their young person truly is.
Collective Members can explore key takeaways and practical tips below, along with a full video version of the podcast and curated additional resources.
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Executive Director at Mosaic
A communications and storytelling leader, Bonnie works at the intersection of philanthropy, collaboration and action. She supports families, educators and partners as they explore non-traditional learning with clarity and confidence. With a background in strategy, media and movement-building, she brings a values-first approach rooted in kindness, truth, humor and integrity.
Director of Admissions at The Evergreen State College
Wade Arave is the Director of Admissions at The Evergreen State College, where he is passionate about expanding access to higher education and guiding students and families through the college search process.
With over 15 years of experience working with diverse student populations. Wade focuses on removing barriers to admission and helping families find the right educational fit for their unique needs and aspirations. He has presented nationally on data-driven approaches to increase access and has built his career on creating streamlined processes that make the admissions journey more transparent and supportive.
Wade believes in the power of personalized guidance and works to ensure every student has the information and support they need to make confident decisions about their educational future. He holds an MFA in Creative Writing for Entertainment from Full Sail University and a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Education from Southern Utah University.
Educational Consultant, PhD
Michele Evard, PhD, is an educational consultant who assists homeschooling families during the K-12 years and college application process. While homeschooling her three children and mentoring others, she co-founded Many Rivers Unschoolers and later served as president of Voyagers Homeschool Cooperative and Resource Center.
Now, Michele helps design and document unique educational options, and assists learners who took personalized paths during their college search & application process. Dr. Evard is the author of College UnMazed: Your Guide to Design & Document Your Homeschool and a regular presenter at professional conferences.
Recent presentation topics include understanding narrative transcripts, supporting homeschooled students and parents, considering online courses, and the homeschooling parents’ role in the college application process. She is a member of IECA, NACAC, NPEA, DLAC and SENG.
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