

Don't Force It: How to Get into College without Losing Yourself in the Process
Sheila Akbar, PhD
For all the stressed-out parents trying to help their teenagers navigate the complicated world of college admissions. Each episode offers insightful and in-depth conversations with admissions experts and professional educators with practical advice for getting through the process without losing sight of yourself, your kid, or your sanity. From building a strong academic and extracurricular profile, developing the college list, managing standardized tests, to crafting the perfect essay, we've got you covered. Whether you're a seasoned high school parent or a first-timer, join us for candid conversations and expert guidance on making it to, through, and beyond college.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 22, 2024 • 34min
Ned Johnson: The Self-Driven Child
In today's episode, join me in a thought-provoking conversation with Ned Johnson, author of several books and founder of PrepMatters. We delve into crucial parenting topics, sharing insights from his book, "The Self-Driven Child." Your journey to understanding and empowering your child begins here, tune in!BioNed Johnson is the founder of PrepMatters, an educational company that helps students find success in high school and get into and through college. A professional “tutor-geek” since 1993, Ned has spent more than 50,000 one-on-one hours helping students conquer an alphabet of standardized tests, learn to manage their anxiety, and develop their own motivation to succeed. With Dr. William Stixrud, Ned co-authored The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives and What Do You Say? How To Talk With Kids To Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home. He is the host of the The Self-Driven Child podcast and his work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, BBC, and many others. Follow Ned on LinkedIn, visit The Self-Driven Child Website, and click to listen to The Self-Driven Child Podcast.Become part of Signet’s Parent Support Community here!Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

Feb 15, 2024 • 33min
Dr. Neha Pathak and Dr. Joyce Varughese: Education and the Children of Immigrants
In today's episode, I engage in a compelling conversation with two dear friends and accomplished professionals, Dr. Neha Pathak and Dr. Joyce Varughese, on navigating the pressures of college and societal expectations. They offer insightful advice for the next generation, urging a pursuit of passion over predefined paths. Join us as they candidly discuss the complexities of finding contentment amid the pursuit of success.BioDr. Joyce Varughese is a highly accomplished gynecologic oncology surgeon, specializing in pre-cancers and cancers of the female reproductive tract. Having graduated from Harvard College, Yale University, and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, she is a clinical assistant professor at Rowan University and Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine. Dr. Varughese is recognized for her expertise in robotic surgery, complemented by her dedication to teaching and involvement in international medical initiatives. Currently serving as the Medical Director of Gynecologic Oncology at Capital Health, she is also a devoted wife and mother who enjoys running, hiking, and family time.Neha Pathak MD, FACP, DipABLM is board certified in both internal medicine and lifestyle medicine andworks as Chief Physician Editor for Health and Lifestyle Medicine and host of WebMD’s HealthDiscovered podcast. She reports on topics related to lifestyle, climate change, and environmentalimpacts on health for WebMD and Medscape, and is a regular contributor to Yale Climate Connections.She is a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine board of directors and Chair of the GlobalSustainability Committee. Dr. Pathak is also a lecturer at the Yale School of Public Health where shefacilitates coursework on climate change and health. She is a founding member of Georgia Clinicians forClimate Action. She has been invited to join the National Academy of Medicine’s Communicating aboutClimate Change and Health Project expert panel. Through all of her work, she hopes to educatehealthcare professionals and the public about the health impacts of climate change and environmentalpollution and the health benefits of climate action. She lives in Atlanta with her husband and children.Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

Feb 8, 2024 • 23min
Andy Friedman: Word Nerd
Andy Friedman, an experienced tutor at Signet, discusses his diverse background in test prep, music theory, and unique experiences working on a horse-powered farm and making pasta. He emphasizes the importance of personal experiences in tutoring and connecting with students on a philosophical and everyday level.

Feb 1, 2024 • 24min
Let’s get tactical: How to Plan your Summer
Welcome back to the podcast! After a refreshing holiday break, join me as I share valuable insights on making your student’s summer meaningful. Let’s kick off the year together!Access Signet's Guide to Summer Planning here.Explore various summer programs and exciting opportunities from Pathways to Science, Teenlife, and College Match Point.Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

Dec 21, 2023 • 30min
Samara Bay: Permission to Speak
Samara Bay, author of Penguin Random House bestseller PERMISSION TO SPEAK, discusses embracing individuality, authentic leadership, societal expectations, avoiding conformity, modeling a full life, and empowering young people in a captivating conversation. Join us for an inspiring discussion!

Dec 12, 2023 • 16min
Let’s Get Tactical: Early Results Are Coming Out
Decode acceptances, denials, and deferrals of early applications. Understand the emotional impact and set boundaries for support. Handle each decision and seize the opportunities. Submit updates after the early application deadline. Deal with emotional challenges and get tips for regular decision applications.

Dec 7, 2023 • 23min
McKenzie Carver: What is a Co-Op program?
McKenzie Carver, Signet Education's Community and Operations Manager, discusses the impact of her Co-Op program at Northeastern on her college experience. Topics include the benefits of co-op programs, the value of gaining real-world skills, and advice for high school students considering a college with a co-op program.

Nov 30, 2023 • 34min
Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster: Supporting Parents of Complex Kids
Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster from Impact Parents discuss the challenges of raising complex kids, the evolving roles of parents, and the importance of coaching and support. They explore topics like shame and expectations, finding balance and embracing independence, and the value of seeking help and resources to approach parenting with a coaching mindset.

Nov 16, 2023 • 30min
Jay Rosner: Bias in Testing and College Admissions
In this episode, Jay Rosner, an admission testing and test-prep expert, discusses the bias in standardized tests, specifically focusing on the SAT's impact on girls. He shares his career journey and mission in test prep, highlighting his advocacy and activism against these tests. The podcast also explores the involvement of Rosner in affirmative action lawsuits, emphasizing the absence of underrepresented minority students in the courtroom. The chapter concludes by discussing the obsession with elite schools and solvable problems in education.

Nov 8, 2023 • 19min
Let's Get Tactical: Now That Early Apps Are Done
Explore essential post-early-admission steps and strategic insights to navigate your next move in the college admissions journey. Discover reasons for higher acceptance rates in early applications, adjusting your college list after a deferral, and the importance of seeking help and planning in the application process.