University Offers Video Admission Applications

By Edward Cardenas

BALTIMORE, MD (CBS Detroit) - Goucher College is one of the first colleges in the nation to let prospective students submit videos as their application for admission starting with the 2015-2016 academic year.

The liberal arts college located in Baltimore, MD, is offering students the option to submit transcripts, test scores, and other traditional application materials, or a two-minute video about how they can flourish in college.

"This is all about being able to demonstrate your story and your passion," said Dr. Jose Bowen, president of Gouge College.

Unlike some universities which use videos as a supplement to the application process, Goucher is offering student's self-produced video "as the crux of the admissions decision."

Students who utilize the video option, are asked to submit  a brief application form, a signed statement of academic integrity, and two works of scholarship (including a graded writing assignment).

The applications will be reviewed by an admissions counselor and a faculty member, who will make recommendations regarding acceptance to a larger review committee, according to the university. Production value will not be among the evaluation criteria for the Goucher Video App

Bowen added that standardized tests such as the SAT "predict who is good at tests, and who will continue to be good at tests, it doesn't measure potential. College should be about potential."