
Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers
Need help navigating the college admissions process? We’re here to help! Every other Monday we’ll bring you exclusive interviews with Former Admissions Officers, graduates from top universities, and admissions experts. Each episode will be filled with application tips and first-hand experiences that will help you get into your dream school. Brought to you by InGenius Prep, the world’s largest team of Former Admissions Officers.
Questions or comments? Email us at contact@ingeniusprep.com
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Latest episodes

Feb 13, 2024 • 25min
88. How to Find Your Unique Voice in College Application Essays
How do you capture an Admissions Officer’s attention through your college essays? On today’s episode, Nivanthi Karunaratne, a Graduate Coach at InGenius Prep, shares her personal journey of self-discovery through music and how it has influenced her approach in helping students find their voice in their college essays. From asking the right questions to discussing the power of introspection in the essay-writing process, Nivanthi shares valuable tips on how to write stellar college application essays.
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Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Feb 5, 2024 • 29min
87. College Admissions Unveiled: How Do Colleges Decide Who Gets Accepted?
How do you convince colleges that you are exactly what they are looking for? On today’s episode, Drew Hazen, a Former Admissions Officer from Northwestern, unveils effective strategies to stand out among a highly competitive pool of accomplished peers. From decoding the holistic review process to providing tips on how to craft a standout application, Drew covers the importance of a clear narrative, the challenge of showcasing personality in applications, and tips for tackling school-specific essay questions. Whether you're a high school student or a supportive parent, this episode will be a comprehensive guide to making a memorable impression in the college admissions journey.
To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.
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Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Jan 29, 2024 • 33min
86. How to Elevate STEM Activities to Stand Out in College Applications
How do students stand out in popular STEM clubs, like robotics? On today’s episode, Stacy Wells Shea, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Rochester, reveals what key qualities set apart standout STEM-related extracurricular activities. From engaging in unique, atypical projects to learning how to make a lasting impact within clubs, Stacy shares valuable insights on how STEM students can distinguish themselves in the competitive college admissions process. Whether you are a prospective STEM student or a parent guiding your child through the admissions process, this episode will be a crucial guide on how to elevate STEM activities to gain a competitive edge.
To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.
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Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Jan 19, 2024 • 26min
85. Fencing Your Way to College: Strategies for Admission Success
Wondering when to reach out to coaches or how to stand out in the recruitment process as a fencer? On today's episode, Kevin Dupont, a Former Admissions Officer from Cornell, sheds light on the nuances of the fencing recruitment process and addresses key questions from students - such as when to reach out to coaches, and how to craft compelling interest letters and fencing resumes. Whether you're a seasoned high school fencer or just starting, this episode will set you on the right path to success in both academics and athletics.
LEARN MORE about the exciting partnership with USA Fencing.
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Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Jan 12, 2024 • 19min
84. Starting 2024 Off Strong: Our Advice to Students
Are you applying to colleges this year? Or is your New Year's Resolution to get ahead with your college applications? If so, you're in the right place! On today's episode, our Former Admissions Officers shared their best advice for students gearing up for the college application process in the new year. From sharing the key to crafting unique applications to discussing how to navigate the challenges of feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork and college applications, this episode will help you approach the college admission journey with confidence and success.
To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.
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Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Dec 22, 2023 • 29min
83. 11 Students Admitted to MIT Last Round, 21.28% Above the Average Acceptance Rate: What’s Our Admissions Secret?
Former Admissions Officer Krista Pickett reveals how to create an outstanding profile that captivates admission committees. She discusses the intricacies of the application process, balancing academic achievements, extracurricular involvements, and personal narratives. The importance of showcasing fit and personality in applications is emphasized, along with strategies for presenting achievements and skills in a clear and positive way. The chapter also explores the value of incorporating liberal arts in a STEM-focused application and provides advice for prospective students.

Dec 6, 2023 • 32min
82. Developing Your Competitive Edge: Strategies for a Standout College Application
Former Stanford admissions officer Marianna Irizarry shares insights on developing a competitive edge in college applications. Topics include starting early, showcasing progression in extracurricular activities, making unexpected connections, developing meaningful community impact projects, and embracing challenges to find your own path.

Nov 27, 2023 • 30min
81. Ace the Digital SAT: The Ultimate Guide to Scoring in the Top 1%
The new Digital SAT presents hurdles and opportunities for students aiming for top scores. On today’s episode, Jake Adams, Director of InGenius Test Prep, unveils the strategies essential for scoring in the top percentile. Whether it's understanding the new modular adaptive testing format or unlocking the secrets behind maximizing performance, this episode equips students with the tools needed to ace the Digital SAT.
To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.
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Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Nov 10, 2023 • 27min
80. ChatGPT vs. Authenticity: Navigating Essay Writing in College Applications
Should you use ChatGPT to write your personal statements?
On today's episode, Zak Harris, a Former Admissions Officer from Johns Hopkins, shares his strategies on how to stand out in college essays without the use of AI.
To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.
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Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Oct 25, 2023 • 19min
79. Computer Science in College Applications: Is it the Right Major For You?
What does it mean to be a computer science major in college?
On today's episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Elena Li, who went from being a computer science major at Cornell to landing a dream job as a software engineer at Amazon. From preparing for computer science internships to learning important soft skills to land coveted job positions, Elena reveals insider knowledge on what it takes to thrive as a successful computer science major.
To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.
Register for our upcoming webinars.
Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com.
To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.