Olivia Sandquist
Associate Director of Recruitment and Events
Boise State University (ID)
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
In college, I was a student tour guide and that’s where my love for this work started. I loved meeting students and families and sharing why Boise State was so special to me and what my college experience had taught me. I also got to learn about them and what they wanted out of college, whether they were excited or felt nervous and unsure about whether college was for them. Being able to talk through those worries and help them feel more comfortable asking questions and picturing themselves on campus was one of my favorite parts. Those conversations made me realize this was something I wanted to keep doing.
What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of my job is supporting my team. I want them to have room to dream and ask, “What could this look like?” before worrying about whether it’s possible. I love when someone brings an idea forward and we get to figure out how to make it happen together. Sometimes it’s a small change that makes their day easier. Other times we get to rethink something we’ve done the same way for years. When we make the work easier, they have more time to connect with students and build relationships. Getting to help make that happen is my “why”!
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
I really appreciate NACAC’s Journal of College Admission because it gives me a chance to hear what others are doing and thinking about in this work. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s happening in your own office, so I love getting a different perspective and finding ideas to bring back to my team and discuss. I’ve also enjoyed attending conferences when possible and getting to have those conversations in person. There’s so much we can learn from each other, and I’m excited to get more involved with NACAC and connect with more people who care about students and this work.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
Students and families have a lot of information to sort through and can feel pressure to make the “right” college decision, especially as the cost of college and everyday living continues to rise. With everything our teams are balancing, we have to make sure to take the time to understand what students want out of college and what concerns they have.
At the end of the day, our team wants students to feel comfortable asking questions and talking through their options so they can make a decision that feels right for them, both personally and financially. Helping them get to that point is one of the most rewarding parts of our work.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
Outside of work, I play volleyball in a city rec league and love hanging out with my husband and taking our dogs on walks. I also spend probably more time than I should obsessing over my lawn!
If you could be any fictional character, who would it be and why?
Olivia Benson from Law & Order: SVU. I love how she stands up for people and makes sure they feel heard. She cares deeply about others but isn’t afraid to have hard conversations or push for what’s right. Plus, we already share a first name. 😊
Published Nov. 16, 2026