In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the three most common mistakes he sees students make year after year in the college admissions process — and how to correct them before it's too late.
Drawing on more than two decades of admissions experience, including his time as Director of MBA Admissions at UPenn's Wharton School, Thomas explains why the strongest applicants aren't just the ones with high GPAs or perfect test scores. They're the ones who build a compelling story, act strategically, and take ownership of their journey.
Whether your student is just starting high school or in the middle of the application process, this episode offers practical advice on how to stand out in today's hyper-competitive admissions landscape.
Key Takeaways
1. No Story Top students don't just collect activities — they craft a clear narrative. Admissions officers want to understand who you are, what drives you, and how your choices connect. Story-building starts earlier than most families think, and it requires intentional reflection.
2. No Strategy Doing everything is not a strategy. Students who spread themselves too thin dilute their impact. Thomas shares how to audit your commitments, focus on meaningful pursuits, and show depth over breadth — the key to a memorable application.
3. No Ownership Parents, counselors, and peers can offer support, but the most powerful applications come from students who take charge of their journey. True ownership builds voice, maturity, and self-awareness — qualities that can't be faked in essays or interviews.
Even in a world of rising selectivity and grade inflation, students who approach the process with story, strategy, and ownership stand out.
Visit www.admittedly.co for free resources and guidance on college admissions.
