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129
August 10, 2026
Episode 129: Is Higher Ed Deploying AI Backwards?

Is Higher Ed Deploying AI Backwards?

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About the Episode

Mallory is joined by Amy Still from ZeeMee and Paul Garner from Western Carolina University to dissect new data regarding student perceptions of AI in the admissions process. With insights drawn from over 12,000 students, the discussion highlights a critical boundary: while students embrace AI for personal research and low-stakes reminders, they remain deeply skeptical of its role in high-stakes interactions. As students move deeper into the enrollment funnel, the demand for human connection increases significantly, with four out of five students preferring human guidance when making their final college choice.

People in this episode

Host

Mallory Willsea is a strategist and consultant working at the intersection of higher education.

Interviewee

Amy Still

Vice President of Marketing at ZeeMee

Paul Garner

Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at West Carolina University

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