Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down Yale’s 2025 writing supplements and short answers so you can respond with clarity, strategy, and genuine voice. From selecting up to three academic areas on the application to explaining a topic that truly excites you, Thomas shows how to demonstrate curiosity without becoming monothematic and how to tie your interests authentically to Yale. You’ll hear practical guidance for the “why Yale” short answer, how to keep the 200-character list questions fresh and human, and how to choose among the 400-word prompts without stumbling into confrontational or cliché territory. Thomas also flags common traps to avoid: performative “voluntourism,” repetitive inspiration answers, and vague claims that do not map to your actual record. Whether you are just starting your Yale application or refining final drafts, this episode helps you use the catalog wisely, show cross-disciplinary curiosity, and pick details that make an admissions officer remember you. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @admittedlyco for more essay tips, and visit www.admittedly.co for webinars, resources, and guidance on applying to Yale and other highly selective schools.

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down Harvard’s five short-answer supplements and how to approach them strategically. Thomas explains how to respond authentically, avoid common traps, and show admissions officers exactly what makes you stand out. From Harvard’s diversity question to the “disagree with someone” prompt, extracurricular reflections, and roommate insights, this episode helps students connect their story to Harvard’s mission and values. Whether you are starting your Harvard application or polishing your final drafts, this episode gives you practical guidance for writing with clarity, depth, and purpose. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @admittedlyco for more essay tips, and visit www.admittedly.co for webinars, resources, and expert support for applying to Harvard and other Ivy League schools.

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel, former Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton, walks through how to approach Stanford’s three supplemental essay prompts — and the common mistakes that hold students back. Thomas explains how to write with authenticity, connect your story to the Stanford community, and avoid cliché answers that admissions officers have read thousands of times. From the “intellectual curiosity” prompt to the roommate essay and the diversity question, this episode is a practical guide to building stronger, more intentional responses. Whether you are just starting your Stanford application or polishing your final drafts, this episode will help you approach these essays strategically, stay authentic, and make a lasting impression. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @admittedlyco for more essay tips, and visit www.admittedly.co for webinars, resources, and guidance on applying to Stanford and other highly selective schools.

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes on a recurring theme in his conversations with students and families: complacency. For those aiming at Ivy+ and other highly selective schools, “coasting” is a red flag. Thomas unpacks why admissions officers notice when students take their foot off the gas, how drifting summers and watered-down academics hurt an application, and the difference between burnout, changing direction, and simply checking out. He also explains what top schools actually want to see: consistency, curiosity, and commitment to meaningful growth. Key Takeaways: Why admissions officers notice when you take your foot off the gas How summers, academics, and extracurriculars reveal your engagement (or lack of it) How to prune activities, focus your time, and avoid becoming one-dimensional What Ivy League and highly selective schools really want to see in your application You don’t need to do everything. But you can’t afford to coast. Have questions or thoughts on this? Engage with us on Instagram and TikTok @admittedlyco — we want to hear your perspective on complacency and what keeps you motivated. For more support and resources, visit www.admittedly.co  

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel sits down with Arun Alagappan, founder and president of Advantage Testing, one of the most respected names in academic tutoring and test preparation. A Princeton and Harvard Law alum, Arun has spent nearly four decades redefining what tutoring can and should be: an uplifting, empowering experience that fosters both academic mastery and lifelong curiosity. Arun shares his journey from his very first tutoring session as a teenager to building Advantage Testing into a nationally recognized institution. He reflects on the clarity it took to leave a traditional legal career path for education, the principles that continue to guide his work, and the vital role of empathy, attention, and kindness in effective teaching. The conversation also explores: The origins of Advantage Testing and what inspired Arun to make tutoring his life’s work What makes a great tutor beyond test scores and credentials Ethics in tutoring, addressing concerns around pressure and fairness Managing anxiety in academics and testing with conscious learning strategies Equity and access through the Advantage Testing Foundation and university partnerships The role of parents in supporting, not pressuring, their children’s learning journey What truly drives student success: grit, resilience, intellectual curiosity, and joy in learning Arun’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that tutoring, when done with integrity and care, is not just about acing a test. It is about equipping young people with the confidence and tools to thrive far beyond the classroom. Guest: Arun Alagappan – Founder and President of Advantage Testing, educator, thought leader, and advocate for educational equity. Learn more: admittedly.co/programs  Follow Admittedly on Instagram and TikTok: @admittedlyco  Follow Advantage Testing on Instagram: @advantagetesting  

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a strategic pause to break down the seismic shifts hitting higher education right now—and what they mean for your application this year. From sweeping funding cuts at top universities, to uncertainty for international students, to new pressures for changes in campus culture, the landscape is changing fast. Thomas unpacks how these forces intersect with admissions strategy, why legacy students may have an edge once again, and why you still can’t rely on luck or shortcuts. This is the episode to hear if you want to stay ahead of the curve and play this year’s admissions game with eyes wide open. Key Takeaways: Funding Cuts Have Ripple Effects: Multi-million-dollar hits to endowments mean less money for research, professors, and student services. While no one is officially admitting it, full-pay and legacy applicants could benefit as schools seek financial stability. International Students Face More Uncertainty: Visa approvals may be shakier, and aid for non-U.S. students could shrink. If you’re applying from abroad, diversify your list globally and take a long-term view toward grad school opportunities. “Non-Controversial” Is the New Campus Buzzword: Universities are feeling pressure to avoid volatile environments. Expect closer scrutiny of your online presence. This Is Not Carte Blanche: Even with shifts in seat allocation, hyper-selective schools will still reject most applicants. Strategy, rigor, and impact still matter more than ever. The bottom line? This may be a year of advantage for certain applicants, but the bar for admission remains sky-high. Your best play is to get strategic, stay authentic, and present your story with discipline and clarity. Are you feeling these changes in your own application plans? Share your thoughts with Thomas directly @admittedlyco on Instagram and TikTok. For deeper guidance, join our free monthly webinars and explore resources at www.admittedly.co.    

Dr. Peggy Burich-Smith, a senior counselor and veteran educator with over 30 years in independent school leadership, shares invaluable insights on raising grounded middle schoolers. She discusses navigating the often turbulent parent-child dynamics during these formative years. Peggy emphasizes the importance of choosing the right school for a child's individual needs, embracing mistakes for personal growth, and the crucial role of external guidance for successful college preparation. This conversation is a heartfelt roadmap for parents aiming to support their children's journeys.

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel walks through everything students and families need to prepare as the Common App opens on August 1. From how to set up your account to the mistakes students often make in the academic and activities sections, this is a clear, practical guide to starting the application season the right way.    Key Takeaways: Getting Started with the Common App: Why you should create your account early, what to expect when you log in, and the key things to get right from the beginning. Academic History & Activities: How to report your coursework and grades accurately, what matters most in the activities section, and common mistakes students make when trying to “stand out.” Honors & Awards: What counts as an award, how to present them effectively, and when it’s okay to leave this section blank. The Common App Essay: How to choose the right prompt, what colleges are really looking for, and why clarity and self-awareness matter more than gimmicks or polish. Optional Sections & Strategy: How to decide whether to use the Additional Info section, and how to align every part of your application with your broader story.   The Common App can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Use this episode as your launchpad—then join us live on August 3, 2025 for Thomas’ free live webinar with a full Common App walkthrough + live Q&A to go even deeper and get your questions answered. Register here and explore more resources built for this season.

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process: applying early. Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), and Restrictive Early Action (REA) each offer different opportunities—and different risks. And while the internet might tell you that applying early boosts your chances, the truth is more complicated. We’ll walk you through what these application types actually mean, how colleges use them strategically, and why those higher admit rates aren’t as simple as they seem. We’ll also talk about when early rounds can hurt your application—and how to decide if applying early is right for you. We’re in your corner. And as the 2025-2026 admissions cycle heats up, we’ll be here with the clarity you need—every step of the way. We want to hear from you. What questions do you have about essays, resumes, or building your strategy? Drop us a DM—we’re in this together. Visit www.admittedly.co for more insights and support.

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel addresses student athletes—and the families supporting them. Whether you're competing at the national level or playing for the love of the game, it’s time to unpack how admissions officers actually view athletics. Thomas breaks down the value of sports in college admissions, the expectations student athletes must meet, and why athletic ability alone won’t carry you through the process. He offers guidance for both recruited and non-recruited athletes—and reminds listeners that sports are one part of a much bigger admissions picture. Key Takeaways: Athletics Aren’t a Free Pass: No one gets into top schools just for being good at a sport. The strongest athletic applicants have rock-solid academics and clear stories beyond the field. Recruited or Not, the Work’s on You: Coaches are building teams, not handing out admissions letters. You need to communicate, self-advocate, and show who you are outside of your sport. Go Beyond the Game: Branch out into leadership, service, or mentorship. Coach younger students, join clubs, or connect with causes that matter to you. Being a one-dimensional applicant isn’t enough. Think Carefully About That Essay: Injury? Tough loss? Yes, it’s personal—but it’s also common. If you’re writing about sports, make sure your voice and perspective are uniquely yours. Whether you're aiming for recruitment or just trying to showcase the full picture of who you are, remember: admissions officers want well-rounded, self-aware students. Sports may be a big part of your life, but they shouldn’t be the only thing that defines you. Are you balancing sports and academics? Wondering what’s next for your student-athlete journey? DM us your questions on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco. And don’t forget to visit www.admittedly.co for free resources, webinars, and support.