Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

Question of the Week: Can I include social media as one of my activities in the common application, and will admissions officers look at my social media before deciding if I am accepted or not? This is a two part question today, and one that we have been getting alot on our own social media. As someone who recently started a TikTok myself, I know how much work and effort goes into creating high quality content. If you are an influencer, have a large following, or participate in brand partnerships you can certainly include social media as a component of your Common Application. Do admissions officers go and look at everyone's social media? The answer...maybe. Listen to the full episode for more details. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and tiktok @admittedlypodcast and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this episode, we're joined by a special guest, Ryan Long, the CEO and Founder of Learn Untethered, a private academic tutoring business. Ryan's journey from a teacher in Santa Barbara to the owner of Learn Untethered is highlighted. His background as a wilderness education facilitator and passion for outdoor activities adds a unique flavor to his approach. Learn Untethered offers individualized education support, both online and at home, catering to students of all ages. Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply HERE! Key Points: The value of individualized attention in tutoring is discussed, emphasizing the benefits of meeting students' specific needs and misunderstandings. Addressing concerns about tutoring being only for high-achieving students, Ryan argues that tutoring benefits students of all levels, providing additional support and understanding. The significance of transitioning to middle school and high school is discussed, highlighting the role of tutoring in helping students develop executive functioning skills and adapt to new academic challenges. The podcast also addresses common concerns about the workload and stress levels of students, emphasizing the role of tutoring in efficient learning. Ryan shares his approach of making tutoring a support system that simplifies homework and provides more time for other activities. Wilderness Education and Outdoor Learning Ryan discusses his background in wilderness education, explaining his involvement in developing programs like Warrior Camp, which teaches wilderness skills and nature-based rites of passage to young adults. Wilderness education offers opportunities for personal growth, decision-making, and overcoming challenges in a controlled environment, which can be an excellent extracurricular experience for college applications The concept of exploring diverse interests and finding opportunities beyond one's comfort zone is discussed in relation to students' career and college admissions choices. Ryan advises students to remain open to new possibilities and opportunities beyond their initial passions, keeping their eyes open to peripheral interests and fostering intellectual curiosity. Related Links Find Ryan online at learnuntethered.com . Also check out Spirit Hollow Retreat Center in Vermont spirithollow.org and Creekspirit Wildlife Foundation creekspirit.org About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

Question of the Week: "Do I need a separate passion project to help with college admissions?" Have a question you want answered? Send us an email at hello@thomascaleel.com or DM us on Instagram @admittedlypodcast Passion projects, as commonly presented, often involve activities outside of your daily life that showcase your dedication and enthusiasm. While initiatives like volunteer work and charitable endeavors are commendable, the way passion projects are often framed can sometimes appear disingenuous. As an experienced reader of countless applications, I've come to recognize genuine passion when I see it. Key Points: Common portrayal of passion projects can seem insincere, often tied to volunteer or charity work. Genuineness is crucial; experienced readers can distinguish true passion. Advice: No need for separate passion project; focus on what genuinely excites you. Example: If chemistry is your passion, engage in lab work, internships, or research. For public service enthusiasts, meaningful volunteer work aligns better than contrived projects. Authenticity prevails; your passion is reflected in consistent, deep involvement over high school. Don't force a passion project—concentrate on what truly drives you. Admissions officers value dedication and growth, not artificially created projects. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

Navigating the 2023 Common App and Examples of Unique Common App Essays Just five days ago, the new Common App dropped for eager applicants, and in this episode, we'll explore key insights and strategies to help you make the most of this crucial process, with a focus on crafting your unique Common App essay. So, if you're a high school senior or a parent looking to support your child, buckle up for an enlightening discussion. Key Points: Getting Started with the New Common App: The August 1 opening of the new Common App marks the beginning of the college application season. Immediate action is advised to set up your Common App account and initiate the process. For parents, this is an opportunity to engage if your child desires your involvement. The Importance of Sections: The Common App is multifaceted; each section plays a unique role in your application. Thomas emphasizes exploring each section individually and understanding its contribution. The Main Common App Essay: A Deeper Dive Addressing the much-anticipated Common App essay, a central element of the application. Students often feel challenged by crafting a compelling essay that truly reflects their essence. A reminder that an essay without struggle might lack depth and authenticity. Finding Unique Essay Topics: The misconception that essays must revolve around immense tragedy or dramatic events. Encouragement to explore personal interests, hobbies, and experiences that define you. Examples of students who turned unconventional topics into compelling narratives. Affirmative Action - Race and Identity in Essays: Addressing recent developments, including the Supreme Court affirmative action decision on race in admissions. The importance of incorporating personal identity and background into your narrative. Emphasizing the need to integrate identity seamlessly into the broader context of your story. COVID-19 and Additional Information Essays: Assessing the relevance of including COVID-19 experiences in the Common App. The significance of conveying how challenges or changes have shaped your journey. Strategically using the "Additional Information" section to provide context where necessary. As the Common App season kicks off, remember that your application is your canvas, and your essay is your masterpiece. Reflect on your passions, experiences, and identity, and weave them into a compelling narrative that speaks to who you are. In the upcoming episodes of our series, we'll continue to unravel the mysteries of the college application process, offering insights and advice to help you succeed in crafting your unique Common App essay. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

Question of the week: Looking for a good parenting book recommendation? Raising teenagers is not easy, and it can leave us wondering what the "right way" to parent is if we want to raise resilient, independent young adults. Have a question you'd like answered? Reach out to us on social media @admittedlypodcast or send us an email at hello@thomascaleel.com Our host Thomas Caleel gives his top book recommendation for any parent looking to help their child find success in the college application process and beyond. Check out "How To Raise an Adult" by Julie Lythcott-Haims. You can grab your copy HERE. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

Fostering Intellectual Curiosity: A Conversation with Educator, Matt Gainsley In this episode, your host, Thomas Caleel, sits down with his long-time friend and esteemed educator, Matt Gainsley. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Matt has been inspiring and stimulating intellectual curiosity in students for more than two decades. Join us as we explore the importance of intellectual curiosity, the evolving dynamics in education, and the impact of parental involvement, and why a college degree doesn't necessarily define who you are. Want to be a guest? Send us an email at hello@thomascaleel.com to apply! Key Points: The importance of intellectual curiosity in the learning process is the primary focus of this episode. Thomas and Matt discuss the shifting dynamics in education, where parents, students, and schools interact in unique ways today. Matt shares his personal journey into teaching, and how when he started college he didn't necessarily think he was going to end up in education. Matt reflects on the changing teacher-student relationships and emphasizes the need for students to take responsibility for their own learning. Parents' role in supporting their children's education is vital, but there should be a balance between involvement and allowing the child to grow independently. The frenzy around college admissions and early childhood education is discussed, with Matt offering valuable insights on achievement and finding the right school. The concept of a "good school" is explored, highlighting the importance of a school that works best for an individual's needs and goals. How Matt 'walks the walk' by teaching a class on the "History of Hip Hop" something he is deeply passionate about. Why universities now recognize the value of depth of involvement and passion in applicants. Encourages students to pursue their passions, even if it means deviating from the conventional path. Willingness to embrace interests fosters deeper connections with fellow humans and enriches lives. Parents, students, and educators alike can gain valuable lessons from this conversation on how to navigate the changing landscape of education and support the growth of young minds. About Thomas Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this episode, host Thomas Caleel discusses the pros and cons of attending college. In response to many messages and comments from listeners saying "college is a waste of time" we encourage you to sit back and think about your own goals and abilities and make an educated decision on what is best for you. And if college is the answer, well, you are in the right place. Have your own question you'd like answered? Email us at hello@thomascaleel.com or send us a DM on instagram @admittedlypodcast. Key Points College may not be for everyone and that is okay. We need to respect everyone's decisions and life paths, there is no right answer Alternative paths to a lucrative career include the military, trade school, community college, and internships. College opens up opportunities by teaching you how to learn, connecting you to new people, and exposing you to new career paths that you may not be aware of. About Thomas Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this episode, our host Thomas Caleel is diving into some common questions about college admissions and applications this time of year. Want to submit a question? Send us a DM on Instagram @admittedlypodcast or email us at hello@thomascaleel.com Question 1: What SAT or ACT score do I need? Standardized testing requirements have evolved, especially after COVID. Many schools now consider a holistic approach to admissions, seeking to increase diversity and offer opportunities for students to present themselves in the best light. For some, taking the test may help bolster their academics, while for others, it could demonstrate their capabilities during challenging times. There's no specific score requirement for all schools. Look at the schools you're interested in and check their admissions statistics to understand their average LSAT and ACT scores. Be realistic about where you stand academically and what the data show for each school. Question 2: What are Legacy Admissions? Legacy admissions refer to the practice of considering applicants who have family members, like parents or siblings, who attended the same school. While some institutions still consider legacy status, many are moving away from it, focusing on merit and diversity instead. There are excellent schools that don't factor in legacy, so consider your options carefully. Question 3: What should I write about in my Common App essay? When crafting your Common App essay, avoid clichés and dig deep to find your unique voice. Show the admissions committee your strategy and what you want to convey about yourself. Avoid reading too many sample essays, as it can influence your writing and prevent you from standing out. Tell your own story, embrace your hardships, and be authentic. Question 4: Should I disclose my learning accommodations on my application? Yes, it's advisable to disclose any learning challenges or accommodations you have received in your application. Colleges want to create a welcoming environment for all students, and sharing this information can provide context to your achievements and challenges. Question 5: How can I pick a major? Selecting a major doesn't mean deciding your lifelong career. Think about the classes you excel in and enjoy the most. Consider your passions and what subjects you want to explore further. Research majors at your desired schools and find a good fit that aligns with your interests. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this week's episode, we tackle an important question from a student in Colorado who is concerned about their final semester grades during their junior year. The student worries that these grades may negatively impact their chances of getting into their dream school. Thomas addresses this issue with valuable insights and advice for both current and rising juniors. Have a question? DM us on social media @admittedlypodcast or email hello@thomascaleel.com for a chance to have it answered on the show. Key Points Grades in junior year are incredibly important for your college application, but there are some things you can do to help. Provide context in the additional information section if there were mitigating circumstances affecting grades. Avoid using excuses like "teacher didn't like me" and take responsibility for learning. Communicate respectfully with teachers to inquire about grades or potential extra credit opportunities. Mitigate the impact of bad grades by excelling in related sections of standardized tests. Craft a compelling narrative in the additional information essay to explain the anomaly in grades and demonstrate growth. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this engaging episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Sam Hassell, a fellow admissions professional with a fascinating background in research and academia. Throughout the conversation, Sam and Thomas share valuable insights and strategies for students navigating the college admissions process. Want to be an expert guest on an Admittedly Podcast episode? Apply HERE Key Points Crafting a focused and compelling narrative is essential in the college admissions process. Parallels can be drawn between research storytelling in academia and constructing an admissions story. Understanding human behavior and how evaluators perceive applicants is crucial. Avoid gratuitous displays of privilege and ensure experiences are conveyed meaningfully. Starting early in the admissions process allows for more time to build a strong resume and narrative. For late-starting students, creativity and abstraction are necessary to construct a compelling narrative from existing experiences. Strategy plays a vital role in selecting the right school and effectively communicating with it. Depth and coherence in presenting experiences and achievements are favored over breadth. Personal growth and triumph over adversity make for impactful narratives. Best way to demonstrate interest for a particular University Choosing summer activities that will benefit your college application Navigating cost and the best way to receive a merit scholarship About Sam Hassell Sam Hassell graduated from the University of Southern California and is a published research scientist, having spent four years in psychology and neuroscience research at Columbia University. Building upon his experiences in research and academia—as well as over a decade in educational services—Sam spearheaded the Great Minds Advising program, a premium college consulting service at Westchester Prep, where he is also currently an owner. His college advising team leverages cutting-edge strategy and insight into the college review process while helping students intricately craft the intellectual depth, niches, and admissions stories that set them apart at even the most elite colleges. Join the Great Minds Advising mailing list at WestchesterPrep.com and find them on instagram @greatmindsadvising About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants. Follow Admittedly on social media TikTok: @admittedlypodcast Instagram: @admittedlypodcast