Brooks School Spotlight: Lisa Searle
Meet Lisa Searle, Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Advising
Lisa Searle joined the Brooks School in January. In her role, she works with prospective students through the admissions process and supports current undergraduates through advising and student services.
Q: Could you describe your role in undergraduate admissions and advising at the Brooks School?
Broadly speaking, my role encompasses both undergraduate admissions and enrollment work as well as student services and advising. I lead outreach and advising for prospective undergraduate students, their families, and supporters about Brooks, I provide information about the undergraduate application and admissions process, and ultimately work to help admitted students make an informed decision to hopefully enroll. That includes a strategy for reaching prospective students to distinguish Brooks among programs across the nation and the world, to make meaningful connections with the school counseling and college advising communities, and to keep students at the center of our work.
I have the pleasure of working with current students in a couple of ways: first, by leading the Brooks School Ambassadors; and second, by advising current undergraduate students through our team’s student services function. This part of my job is super exciting because I get to work with students from the time they become interested in Brooks all the way through matriculation and then graduation. I get to see the whole life cycle of an undergraduate student, which is really special.
Q: What excites you about working with prospective and current Brooks students?
I’ve only been in my role since the middle of January, but I have to say that working with current Brooks students has been really inspiring.
One of the things that struck me most during the interview process was how deeply committed to positive change Brooks students are. The world feels heavy lately, and Brooks students are at the forefront of wanting to be the changemakers we need in society. I’m really energized by their compassion. They are so purpose-driven; they really want to make positive change.
Q: What questions or concerns do you often hear from students or families navigating admissions and advising processes?
In the admissions and enrollment space, there is a lot of pressure put on high school students. They are expected to have so much figured out: what they are going to be, where they are going to go to school, and what the right fit means for them academically and socially.
When students look at an institution like Cornell, they are trying to understand what will make them competitive in a highly competitive pool. I always want to remind prospective students and families that we engage in a holistic review process and we take into consideration everything that makes that student who they are.
Of course, we are looking for demonstrated academic preparation and rigor of coursework within the context of the student’s academic background. But we are also looking for students who demonstrate interest and passion for policy, who are engaging in activities that support that interest, and who want to be meaningful changemakers in a community of like-minded students.
If I could offer any advice, it would be to take a deep breath. You will change and evolve over time, and that is a normal and valuable part of college and life. Lean into flexibility. Don’t be afraid of self-reflection. If you try something and it’s not for you, that is equally valuable to finding something you are super passionate about.
Q: What advice do you often give students as they think about majors, opportunities, and future careers?
Lean into trying new things. I think there is often a real emphasis in high school and during the college application process on trying to package your whole experience into a few bullet points. It is not just breadth, it is depth. When you find the things you are really passionate about, lean into those. Look for opportunities for deeper involvement and leadership.
At the same time, trying new things is okay. Finding something that you do not like is equally valuable in understanding where you fit and what direction you might take.
What makes Brooks so special, especially for prospective students, is that students who have multiple interests can often find a home through policy. Policy touches everything. For students who want to be changemakers, think broadly across disciplines, and hone their analytical skills, policy is a unique way to intersect all of those things.
It also gives you a springboard into future careers. Brooks graduates go into law, politics, government, finance, health care administration, consulting, tech, and more. I often encourage students to think about what brings them joy and fulfillment. You spend so much of your life at work, so it is important to find something that is meaningful to you and to surround yourself with people who share your values, mission, and vision.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus?
I enjoy the quick loop around Beebe Lake. I am a firm believer in getting your steps in, and it is a wonderful way to clear your head. We are so lucky to be surrounded by natural beauty. I have also enjoyed just sitting in the MVR Commons, seeing students come and go, and feeling that sense of community.
Q: What would be your perfect afternoon in the Finger Lakes?
It depends on the time of year, but I am always game for an outdoor moment with my husband and my kids. We love a state park, the Children’s Garden, the Waterfront Trail, the Farmers Market — anything outside.
My family also loves Ithaca Falls because the kids can pick up rocks and find little crawfish and other creatures in the water. They find that very exciting.
Q: Who was your top artist on your Spotify Wrapped?
Taylor Swift. I think it was compounded by the fact that both of my kids also like Taylor, but we are definitely a Swiftie household.