

The College Admissions Process Podcast
John Durante
Welcome to "The College Admissions Process Podcast," your ultimate resource for navigating the journey to higher education while receiving application tips and other college advice.  I am your host, John Durante, and I am here to introduce you to college admissions representatives, and other professionals in the field of college admissions.  Our purpose is to serve you the students and parents, so that you may gain insight straight from the people who ultimately make the decisions.  Regardless of whether you will apply to a particular school being highlighted in a given podcast episode, you should listen to all of them, as each guest will give you tremendous insight and advice on every aspect of the college admissions process.  
Lastly, if you have any questions you’d like me to cover on future episodes, or any comments you’d like to share, please email me at: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com
And don’t forget to visit our website at www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
So, are you ready? Let’s talk about it.
Lastly, if you have any questions you’d like me to cover on future episodes, or any comments you’d like to share, please email me at: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com
And don’t forget to visit our website at www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
So, are you ready? Let’s talk about it.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 9, 2024 • 31min
230. Adelphi University - Jade Frevola - Associate Director of Admissions
 Adelphi University Admissions OfficeLearning Resource Program Bridges to Adelphi  AP & IB Credit Information  Prospective Student Athlete Form  Innovative Academic Support Initiative Award for undecided students Alphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email List The College Application Process Podcast - Social Media Links*************************👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com 

Aug 7, 2024 • 60min
229. UNC Chapel Hill: Playback Wednesdays - Exclusive Insights from Jason McGrath - Associate Provost and Director of Undergraduate Admissions
 👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com—------------------------------UNC Chapel Hill Admissions🎙️ In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," we dive into the heart of UNC Chapel Hill's admissions process with Jason Mc Grath, the Associate Provost and Director of Undergraduate Admissions. Gain valuable insights to navigate the complex world of college applications and understand what makes UNC Chapel Hill stand out.UNC Chapel Hill's Uniqueness:🌟 Explore the unique aspects that define UNC Chapel Hill.🎓 Learn about offerings inside and outside the classrooms that set the university apart.High Retention Rate Secrets:🤔 Uncover the secrets behind UNC's impressive 97% retention rate.🏡 Discover what keeps students happy and eager to return each year.Qualities Valued in Applicants:🎯 Understand the specific characteristics UNC values in its applicants.📚 Gain insights into what sets successful candidates apart.Holistic Application Approach:🔄 Explore the holistic approach to application review at UNC.📝 Tips for presenting a well-rounded and thorough application.Managing Increased Applications:📈 Navigate the challenge of rising application numbers.🤷♂️ Learn how UNC determines acceptances, waitlists, and denials.Out-of-State Admission Impact:🌍 Understand the impact of out-of-state limitations on the application process.🚀 Advice for out-of-state applicants to stand out.Legacy Considerations:🏛️ Delve into the role of legacy in the application review process.🤔 Does being a legacy candidate make a difference?Specialized Programs and Schools:🎨 Explore how application reviews differ for specific programs or schools.📓 Learn about any unique requirements for certain majors.Addressing Varied High School Offerings:🏫 Navigate the application review process for students from diverse high schools.📊 How UNC considers different high school offerings.Test-Optional Trends:📚 Explore UNC's test-optional policy and its impact.📈 Discover the percentage of admitted students who didn't submit test scores.Future of Test-Optional Admissions:🔮 Predictions on the test-optional nature of admissions in the coming years.This episode equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate the college admissions process successfully. Gain a deeper understanding of UNC Chapel Hill's unique approach and valuable advice from Jason Mc Grath for a successful college journey. 🎓✨ 

Aug 5, 2024 • 29min
228 - University of Delaware - Matt Lucatamo - Assistant Director of Admissions - Follow-Up Episode
 👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com-----------------------------In this episode, Matt Lucatamo from the University of Delaware and I discuss:  🏫 Delaware's Charm: On and Off Campus:As a graduate and admissions professional, Matt unveils the secrets of what makes the University of Delaware a special place. From the cozy, brick-laden campus and intimate academic settings to the welcoming community and, of course, the renowned creamery, Matt paints a vivid picture of the Delaware experience. 🌳🏛️🍦🔄 Updates and Developments at UD:Catch up on the latest at UD! Matt shares insights into recent changes, including new admissions deadlines for the Honors College and nursing programs, exciting construction projects like the interdisciplinary laboratory space, Chabad house reconstruction, and Pearson Hall's renovation. 🚧🏢💖 Student Happiness at UD:Delaware boasts a retention rate over 90%, well above the national average. Matt attributes this success to the robust support systems in place, including tutoring centers, mental health resources, academic advising, and a thriving community with over 400 student-run clubs. 🎓🤝👀 Must-See on Campus: A Glimpse into Life at UD:For prospective students fortunate enough to visit, Matt recommends exploring student centers, the gym, the library, Main Street's bustling shops and restaurants, and, of course, the creamery. Academically, personalized tours by department provide deeper insights into specific majors. 🏢📚🍴📆 Admissions Process: Unchanged Excellence:Reaffirming details from a previous episode, Matt clarifies that applying Early Action or Regular Decision at UD yields the same merit aid outcomes. 💡📚 Decoding Transcripts and Rigor:Matt demystifies the transcript evaluation process, emphasizing the use of the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) to standardize grading scales. He sheds light on the importance of a weighted GPA system and the consideration of a student's course rigor relative to their high school offerings. 📊🎓🎓 Test-Optional Trend at Delaware:In alignment with a growing trend, Matt reveals that approximately 55% of last year's class applied test-optional. The University of Delaware remains test-optional for all majors through the fall of 2025. No exceptions. 📈🚫📝🏆 Beyond Grades: Extracurricular Insights:Extracurricular activities are a window into a student's character. Matt values diversity in experiences and emphasizes that while major-related activities are noted, there's no one-size-fits-all expectation. Each applicant is unique, and their activities should reflect that. 🌟🎭🔬📝 Essay Tips and Pitfalls:Matt shares valuable advice on crafting compelling essays. He encourages applicants to avoid common tropes, steer clear of overly dramatic narratives, and take the opportunity to showcase their unique personalities, passions, and experiences. 🖊️🎓🌈🎓 Credit for AP, IB, and Dual Enrollment Courses:Delaware recognizes the value of advanced coursework. Matt highlights the university's acceptance of AP, IB, and dual enrollment credits, providing tools for students to explore transferability and equivalencies. 🤓📚🌐 Inclusivity at UD: Support for Students with IEPs:Students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) find support at UD through the Office of Disability Support Services (DSS). Matt explains how DSS collaborates with students to ensure a smooth transition to college-level accommodations. 🤝📚🌟 Top 3 Pieces of Wisdom: Advice for the College Journey:Matt wraps up with three golden nuggets: create a spreadsheet for school features, note application deadlines, and be patient with supporters; supporters should guide but not do everything for the student, letting them take the lead in their college journey. 📅🤲🚀Join us in this insightful episode as Matt Lucatamo opens the doors to the University of Delaware, providing a roadmap for prospective students and their families on their quest for higher education. 🎓🚪✨ Don't forget to check out our affiliate partnership links, providing valuable resources to further enhance your college admissions journey:Dormify Coupon Code/Affiliate Relationship ExplainedPrep Expert Coupon Code/Affiliate Relationship Explained #CollegeAdmissions#AdmissionsInsights #ApplicationTips #TheCollegeAdmissionsProcessPodcastUniversity of Delaware - Undergraduate AdmissionsSRAR page on UD’s websiteRegistrar’s page with the AP and IB credit chartTransfer Credit Matrix 

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 9min
227. The Truth About College Admission (2nd Edition) with Rick Clark - Playback Wednesdays - Author, Assistant Vice Provost & Executive Director of Admission at Georgia Tech.
 👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com—------------------------------In this episode we had the great pleasure of welcoming back Rick Clark who is the co-author of The Truth About College Admission - 2nd Edition and the Asst. Vice Provost & Executive Director of Admission at Georgia Tech. Here are some of the things Rick and I spoke about, along with so much more:📘 Overview of "The Truth About College Admission":Rick takes us through the inspiration behind the second edition, exploring changes and trends in the dynamic world of college admissions.💡 Controlling the Controllables in College Admission Uncertainty:Rick delves into factors applicants can control, emphasizing mindfulness amid uncertainties. He sheds light on navigating the college process, focusing on what matters and accepting elements beyond control.🏛️ Institutional Priorities & Admissions Goals:Rick unravels the intricacies of institutional priorities, explaining how colleges set goals, emphasizing the impact on individual applicants, and shedding light on the evolving landscape of college admissions.📚 Holistic Admission & GPA's Role:Explore the holistic admission process and the role of GPA in context. Rick provides clarity on how colleges assess students from diverse high schools, considering the nuances of their academic journeys.📝 Avoiding Wedges in the College Process:Learn from real examples in Clark's book about avoiding family wedges during the college application process. He shares advice on fostering healthy communication and steering clear of potential pitfalls.💰 Financial Aid and Need Awareness:Rick explains the difference between need-blind and need-aware schools, offering insights into the crucial role financial aid plays in the college admission process.📊 Decoding College Rankings:Delve into the intricacies of college rankings with Clark, exploring their flaws and how individuals should approach them. Gain valuable perspectives on the often-misleading world of college rankings.🏞️ Maximizing College Visits:Clark shares key tips from his book on making the most of college visits, emphasizing their importance in determining fit and overall satisfaction with a chosen institution.🔍 Admissions Representatives' Perspectives:Explore what admissions representatives look for in applicants, understanding the significance of high school context and course offerings in the decision-making process.🎓 High School Acceptance Limitations:Clark addresses common beliefs about colleges limiting acceptances from specific high schools, providing clarity on this widely debated topic.❓ Unasked Questions & Final Insights:Clark shares additional insights and reflections, addressing any unasked questions and providing a well-rounded perspective on the college admissions journey.🌟 Top 3 Pieces of Advice for College Applicants:Discover Clark's top three pieces of advice for students and parents gearing up for the college admissions process.This is a must for anyone navigating the college process as we dived into a comprehensive exploration of college admissions realities with Rick Clark.🎙️🎓The Truth About College Admission Website 

Jul 29, 2024 • 56min
226. University of South Carolina - Marissa Strominger - NY/Fairfield County (CT) Regional Admissions Representative
 In this episode, Marissa Strominger provides invaluable insights into UofSC’s admissions process and campus life. Here are the top 4 highlights and show notes:🔍 Episode Highlights:Holistic Review Process: Marissa breaks down UofSC’s approach to evaluating applications, focusing on more than just test scores. Discover what other factors play a crucial role in their decision-making. 📋✨Test-Optional Insights: Curious about how UofSC’s test-optional policy impacts admissions? Marissa provides guidance on submitting standardized test scores. 📝❌Crafting a Memorable Personal Essay: Learn what makes a personal essay stand out and get tips on what to avoid to make sure your essay captures the admissions team’s attention. ✍️📚Campus Life & Support Services: Explore the vibrant campus life at UofSC, including popular extracurricular activities and essential support services like academic advising and mental health resources. 🏅📖Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you navigate the college admissions process. Best wishes to all! 🎧University of South Carolina Resources:Meet the RepsVisit USCUndergraduate AdmissionsHonors & Scholars ProgramsMajors & Degrees---------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—--------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com 

Jul 24, 2024 • 42min
225. Johns Hopkins University - Playback Wednesdays - Inside the Admissions Office: Expert Insights, Tips, and Advice - Patrick Salmon - Associate Director of Recruitment
 Johns Hopkins University - Undergraduate AdmissionsJohns Hopkins University - Essays That Worked------------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com 

Jul 22, 2024 • 46min
224. Rutgers University - New Brunswick Campus with Drew Newitt - Admissions Counselor
 🎙️In this insightful episode we speak with Drew Newitt, who is an admissions counselor at Rutgers University. Drew dives into the details of what makes Rutgers a fantastic choice for students and shares valuable tips on navigating the admissions process. Here are the four most important points you don't want to miss:1. 🎓 Why Rutgers Stands Out:Drew discusses the myriad of reasons why students and their families love Rutgers. From the wide range of academic programs to the vibrant campus life, Rutgers offers a unique blend of opportunities inside and outside the classroom. The university's commitment to student success and its welcoming community make it an excellent choice for prospective students.2. 📈 Impressive Retention Rate:Rutgers boasts a remarkable 93% retention rate, significantly higher than the national average. Drew reveals some insights behind this achievement, emphasizing the strong support systems, engaging campus environment, and resources available to students, which contribute to their continued satisfaction and success.3. 📝 Application Process & Test-Optional Policy:Understanding the structure of Rutgers and how it affects the application process is crucial. Drew explains the different ways students can apply, including Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision, and the benefits of each. He also clarifies the university's test-optional policy, ensuring listeners know it applies to all programs and majors, with no hidden requirements for competitive fields.4. 📚 Student Support Services:Support for students doesn't stop at admission. Rutgers offers extensive resources to ensure academic and personal success, including support for students with IEPs or 504 plans. Drew highlights the various services available, from academic advising to mental health resources, demonstrating Rutgers' commitment to student well-being.We hope you enjoy this episode, thank you for listening and best wishes!Rutgers University - Admissions--------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com 

Jul 17, 2024 • 1h 3min
223. University of Wisconsin-Madison - Playback Wednesdays - Inside the Admissions Office: Expert Insights, Tips, and Advice - Andre E. Phillips - Director of Admissions and Recruitment
 University of Wisconsin-Madison AdmissionsWelcome to "The College Admissions Process Podcast," where we delve deep into the world of college admissions. Today, we have a special guest, Andre E. Phillips, the Director of Admissions and Recruitment at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He'll provide us with invaluable insights into the admissions process and what makes Wisconsin such a sought-after university.Segment 1: Getting to Know Dean PhillipsDean Phillips shares his background in admissions and how he rose to the position of Director of Admissions at UW-Madison.Segment 2: What Sets UW-Madison ApartDiscover what makes the University of Wisconsin-Madison stand out and why it's an attractive choice for students.Segment 3: The Admissions Process at WisconsinDean Phillips walks us through the admissions process and offers advice for students and parents navigating it.Segment 4: Balancing Acceptances, Waitlists, and DenialsLearn how UW-Madison handles the challenge of admitting students from a pool of highly qualified applicants.Segment 5: Out-of-State Acceptance RateDean Phillips discusses whether there's a limit to the percentage of out-of-state students that can be accepted.Segment 6: Enhancing Your ApplicationFind out the average profile of UW-Madison's freshman class and get tips on improving your application if you fall below the mid 50% range.Segment 7: Application MethodsExplore the various ways to apply to UW-Madison, including Early Decision, Early Action, and more, and the potential benefits of each.Segment 8: Common Application MistakesDean Phillips shares common application pitfalls and how students can avoid them.Segment 9: Test Optional AdmissionsDiscover the impact of test-optional admissions at UW-Madison, including the percentage of admitted students who didn't submit test scores.Segment 10: The Future of Test OptionalDean Phillips speculates on the future of the test-optional movement in college admissions.Segment 11: Supporting Admitted StudentsLearn about the academic and social support systems in place for students once they're admitted to UW-Madison.Segment 12: Unique Opportunities at WisconsinExplore the unique programs, internships, and study abroad opportunities available to students at UW-Madison.Segment 13: Top 3 Pieces of AdviceDean Phillips offers his top three pieces of advice for students and parents preparing for the college admissions process.Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey into the admissions process at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. We hope you found these insights valuable as you navigate your college application journey. Stay tuned for more episodes of "The College Admissions Process Podcast" and please share the podcast information with anyone you think may benefit.-----------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com 

Jul 15, 2024 • 36min
222. St. John's College - Benjamin Baum - Vice President of Enrollment
 St. John's College - Admissions & Financial Aid Information------------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com 

Jul 10, 2024 • 40min
221. University of Pennsylvania - Playback Wednesdays - Sara Cohen & Barkley Barton
 University of Pennsylvania - Admissions & AidIn this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," we had the privilege of speaking with Sara Cohen and Barkley Barton, admissions representatives from the renowned University of Pennsylvania. Join us as we dive deep into the world of college admissions and gain invaluable insights into what sets UPenn apart from other institutions and how students can navigate the admissions process successfully.Segment 1: Overview of the University of PennsylvaniaHistory, Mission, ValuesWhat sets UPenn apartKey highlights of the institutionSegment 2: Popular Academic and Extracurricular ProgramsUPenn's most sought-after programsUnique and renowned examples of academic and extracurricular offeringsSegment 3: Secrets to UPenn's High Retention RateThe magic behind a 95% retention rateStrategies to attract and keep students happySegment 4: Holistic Application Review ProcessOverview of UPenn's comprehensive approachKey components, deadlines, and requirements for applicantsSegment 5: Transcript EvaluationThe pivotal role of transcripts in the applicationDifferences based on the student's intended majorSegment 6: Deferred vs. Waitlisted: What's the Difference?Understanding what deferred and waitlisted meanHow interested students can improve their chancesSegment 7: Teacher Recommendations and Personal EssaysImportance in the application processTips for crafting compelling essays and securing strong recommendationsSegment 8: Supplemental QuestionsUPenn's supplemental questions and their purposeGaining unique insights into studentsSegment 9: Standardized Testing PoliciesUPenn's stance on SAT/ACT scoresRecent changes and adaptations in light of evolving testing landscapeSegment 10: Evaluating Students with Varying AP OfferingsAddressing disparities in AP course availabilityHow the evaluation process differs for these studentsSegment 11: Financial Aid and ScholarshipsUPenn's approach to financial aidNavigating the application process and available resourcesSegment 12: Expert Advice for College AdmissionsParting words of wisdom for students and parentsPreparing for a successful college admissions journeyThank you for joining us in this enlightening episode as we unravel the mysteries of the University of Pennsylvania's admissions process and gain expert advice for prospective students and their families. Stay tuned for more episodes of "The College Admissions Process Podcast"!----------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—---------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com 


