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Whitney Soule
Whitney Soule
00:56

Whitney Soule

University of Pennsylvania

Austin, TX USA

"You already have all the power in you and you need other people around you to help you see it, learn it, and use it."

Career Roadmap

Whitney's work combines: Education, Writing, and Working with Others

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Day In The Life

Vice Provost and Dean of Admissions

I guide admissions policy, lead staff, and collaborate across campus to shape a meaningful student experience.

02:47

Day In The Life Of A University Dean Of Admissions

My Day to Day

Every day is different but my work routinely consists of a lot of meetings. In a typical day, I may meet with our student leaders. Then I'll meet with our financial aid office to understand and shape our benefits and strategy. I could also be in a meeting with my senior leadership team. I lead a team that manages everything from application reading to nationwide outreach, all aimed at making college more accessible and inclusive. It's fast-paced and very collaborative work.

Skills & Education

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

  • Bachelor's Degree

    English

    Bates College

  • Graduate Degree

    Education

    Harvard Graduate School of Education

Life & Career Milestones

My path in life has been direct

  • 1.

    I entered college loving English and writing, but without any idea what career path I’d follow.

  • 2.

    After graduation, I took on odd jobs, including teaching aerobics, cleaning houses, and walking dogs, just to make rent.

  • 3.

    My first full-time job was with the American Red Cross, where I learned the value of community-focused work.

  • 4.

    When my alma mater had an opening in admissions, I applied because I had loved being a campus tour guide.

  • 5.

    I stayed in admissions because I loved the mix of strategy, travel, reading, and connecting with students.

  • 6.

    Over time, I realized this work wasn’t just interesting—it had the power to create real access to opportunity.

  • 7.

    Now as the dean of admissions at the University of Pennsylvania, I help shape equitable policies that open doors for students from every background.