Are GPAs and graduation rates really measuring success? Dean Susan Seal and team challenge traditional metrics and explore what success means today.

In Episode 2 of Uncharted State, Susan Seal, Sean Owen, and Maddie Ludt tackle a fundamental question: How should we actually measure student success in higher education?

In This Episode:

• Why traditional metrics (GPA, retention, graduation rates) were designed for external stakeholders, not students
• The shift from "college ready" to "student ready" institutions
• Credit for prior learning: Why recognizing work experience improves graduation rates
• Moving beyond "traditional" vs "non-traditional" labels that devalue student experience
• How career impact and skill application define success for adult learners
• The role of technology and AI in identifying student needs and measuring outcomes

Success looks different for everyone. A student returning after 15 years of management experience has different needs than an 18-year-old freshman—and universities must meet both where they are, not force them into outdated categories.