Ben Lamers

Assistant Director of Admission

Central Michigan University



1. What did you study in college?  Was your plan to enter the school counseling world?

I was a journalism major in college.  Through that, I was editor of the paper, producer of the News TV "Show", and a sports broadcaster on the radio.  Pretty much, if it was journalism based, I was probably involved in it.

Higher education wasn't the initial plan.  At some point first semester senior year, I needed to actually start thinking about jobs.  I was a tour guide/intern in the Admissions Office at the time and absolutely loved in.  Around that time, my high school counselor asked me if I knew I could do admissions as a profession.  I didn't but very quickly that was the direction I decided to go.

2. What inspires you most about your job?

The students, hands down.  Working with them and helping them through the college search process is ridiculously rewarding.  Even if they don't attend the school I work for; helping students through the search and making sure they have all the information to make an educated decision is vital.  

3. What is the best part of what you do?

I'm that weird guy who lives for travel season.  Getting to go to the different schools, fairs, and towns is just the best.  Not only do we get to go to cool places (I think), but it is quality time to catch up on a variety of podcasts.

4. How has being a member of WACAC helped you?

The first time around (when I covered Wisconsin for Iowa State) WACAC was vital for helping me find both professional connections and personal friends on the road.  I expect no different this time around!

6. What is one piece of advice you would give a new admissions counselor or high school counselor?

Don't work TOO hard.  Obviously, work hard.  But don't forget to have some fun along the way.  Travel can be a grind, but take advantage of the time and places you get to explore when not being home.  Whether that is somewhere in the state of Wisconsin, or if you travel to different states; take advantage of where you are.  Go to the Madison zoo.  Check out that local brewery (after your visits and fairs!).  Go hiking in that state park.  Make sure to have some fun with your job!

7. What's an interesting fact about you that has nothing to do with admissions counseling?

I was cast as an extra for Chicago Fire this past year, but got an email the day before that said they were reducing the amount of people needed and I didn't make the cut.  BUT, I still have the email stating I was, in fact, part of the cast!

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