Getting In: A College Coach Conversation

In this entertaining discussion, Tova Javetz, a former college admissions officer, shares hilarious insights about unusual college mascots like Banana Slugs and the Poet, highlighting their significance in campus culture. Jenni Gargano, a former Associate Director of Admission at Dartmouth, advises students on navigating post-Early Decision outcomes, including steps for the admitted and deferred. Beth Feinburg-Keenan, a financial aid expert, breaks down the financial implications of Early Decision, guiding families on budgeting and managing aid offers.

Are you looking for a big university with of lots of school spirit but also small class sizes and lots of research opportunities? An honors college at a large university may be your best bet. Listen in as host Shannon Vasconcelos, herself a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Honors College, talks about what honors colleges are and their benefits with colleague Jen Simons. Then, new colleague who came to us straight from the Carnegie Mellon admission office Lauren Savage with be here to discuss the difference between various computer science majors. And last, if you were given grace on your student loan payments and wonder what happens now, college finance expert Zachery Gries will join Shannon to discuss next steps. Learn More About Bright Horizons College Coach

Michelle Smoley, a college coach specializing in finance, shares the benefits of working during holiday breaks. She emphasizes how part-time jobs can enhance financial literacy and build valuable workplace skills while also improving time management and grades. Mary Sue Youn, an expert in engineering guidance, discusses the various fields within engineering and the academic preparation needed. She highlights the importance of math and core disciplines and clarifies misconceptions about engineering careers, preparing students for future success.

Blair Dixon, a former senior assistant director of admissions at Brandeis, and Aysha Wong, ex-assistant director at the University of Florida, join finance expert Chrissy Foran from Bright Horizons College Coach. They unpack the myths in college admissions, discussing the realities behind D1 athletics and the importance of matching colleges to student strengths. Chrissy delves into merit aid, explaining how schools offer it and why negotiation can be key. The team emphasizes the importance of planning and the need to alleviate parental fears in the college search.

Are you a high-achieving, low-income student? Listen in as our host Ian Fisher discusses the Questbridge Scholarship with College Coach Finance expert Alex Gonzalez. Have you heard that all college admission essays must have a "hook"? Confused about what the colleges want in these essays? New College Coach educator Shayla Bezjak-Martinez, formerly of Harvey Mudd and Worcester Polytechnic Institute, is here to clarify what colleges are really looking for in the admission essay "genre." Last, did you know that some colleges give you the option of submitting a virtual interview or video? While students can find that intimidating, it doesn't have to be! Colleague Sara Calvert-Kubrom will be taking about what approach to take. Learn More About Bright Horizons College Coach

Working frantically to finish up your Early Decision application? Host Shannon Vasconcelos will be joined by College Coach colleague Karen Spencer to discuss putting the final touches on your Common Application. Are you still trying to decide whether you should apply Early Action to a school? Listen in, as College Coach colleague Brittany Preston will tell you what to consider in making the decision. And last, Finance colleague Laurie Peltier will be there to tell you that you don't need to get spooked by financial aid application mistakes. Learn More About Bright Horizons College Coach

Celebrating our 500th (!!) episode If you're applying to the Cal States or University of California schools, listen to today's show. Host Kyra Tyler will be interviewing colleague Steve Fernandez-Brennan about how to fill out the Cal State Application, and then Kyra will be joined by Cesar Contreras, who just came to us from the admission office at UCLA, to discuss the University of California Personal Insight Questions. In addition, College Coach Finance Colleague Jennifer Wilcox will be there to discuss credit underwriting differences between federal and private education loans. Learn More About Bright Horizons College Coach

Mary Sue Youn, a former Barnard admissions officer, shares insights about application supplements for Barnard and Columbia. She highlights specific prompts that encourage constructive disagreement and personal reflection. Joining her, Chrissy Foran demystifies financial aid terms like FAFSA, SAI, and CSS Profile, emphasizing the importance of early filing and understanding aid options. Together, they offer valuable strategies for applicants to enhance their essays and navigate the financial aid process with confidence.

Jay Bonham, a former admissions professional and college coach, shares his insights on selecting study abroad programs, covering essential topics like visas and budgeting. Jen Simons, with experience at top universities, offers creative strategies for tackling challenging college supplements, emphasizing specificity and personal interests. Meanwhile, finance expert Zach Gries provides crucial advice on saving for college, how to navigate FAFSA timing, and the implications of student summer earnings on financial aid. Tune in for valuable guidance from experienced voices!

Here it is, thanks! Interested in Cal Tech and Harvey Mudd, but not sure how to approach their supplemental essays? Host Shannon Vasconcelos will be joined by Kimberly Ortiz, a College Coach colleague who is also a former admission officer at both institutions. Also, if you are looking for updates on the ever-changing world of standardized testing for college admissions, in addition to some tips and tricks, friend of the pod Meghan Stubbendeck of Arborbridge will be there to fill us all in. Last but not least, if you're applying for financial aid at an institution that requires the CSS Profile, you'll want to listen in on finance colleague Beth Feinberg-Keenan's explanation of the methodology used by the College Board for that form. Learn More About Bright Horizons College Coach