

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 youโd like me to cover on future episodes, or any comments youโd like to share, please email me at: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com
And donโt forget to visit our website at www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
So, are you ready? Letโs talk about it.
Lastly, if you have any questions youโd like me to cover on future episodes, or any comments youโd like to share, please email me at: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com
And donโt forget to visit our website at www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
So, are you ready? Letโs talk about it.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 10, 2024 โข 1h 8min
200. The Truth About College Admission (2nd Edition) with Rick Clark - Author, Assistant Vice Provost & Executive Director of Admission at Georgia Tech
๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.comโ------------------------------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:๐ 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.๐ก 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.๐๏ธ 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.๐ 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.๐ 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.๐ฐ 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.๐ 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.๐๏ธ 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.๐ 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.๐ High School Acceptance Limitations:Clark addresses common beliefs about colleges limiting acceptances from specific high schools, providing clarity on this widely debated topic.โ 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.๐ 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.๐๏ธ๐The Truth About College Admission Website

16 snips
Apr 8, 2024 โข 59min
199. UNC Chapel Hill: Exclusive Insights from Jason McGrath - Associate Provost and Director of Undergraduate Admissions
๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.comโ------------------------------UNC Chapel Hill Admissions๐๏ธ 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:๐ Explore the unique aspects that define UNC Chapel Hill.๐ Learn about offerings inside and outside the classrooms that set the university apart.High Retention Rate Secrets:๐ค Uncover the secrets behind UNC's impressive 97% retention rate.๐ก Discover what keeps students happy and eager to return each year.Qualities Valued in Applicants:๐ฏ Understand the specific characteristics UNC values in its applicants.๐ Gain insights into what sets successful candidates apart.Holistic Application Approach:๐ Explore the holistic approach to application review at UNC.๐ Tips for presenting a well-rounded and thorough application.Managing Increased Applications:๐ Navigate the challenge of rising application numbers.๐คทโโ๏ธ Learn how UNC determines acceptances, waitlists, and denials.Out-of-State Admission Impact:๐ Understand the impact of out-of-state limitations on the application process.๐ Advice for out-of-state applicants to stand out.Legacy Considerations:๐๏ธ Delve into the role of legacy in the application review process.๐ค Does being a legacy candidate make a difference?Specialized Programs and Schools:๐จ Explore how application reviews differ for specific programs or schools.๐ Learn about any unique requirements for certain majors.Addressing Varied High School Offerings:๐ซ Navigate the application review process for students from diverse high schools.๐ How UNC considers different high school offerings.Test-Optional Trends:๐ Explore UNC's test-optional policy and its impact.๐ Discover the percentage of admitted students who didn't submit test scores.Future of Test-Optional Admissions:๐ฎ 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. ๐โจ

Apr 3, 2024 โข 25min
198. Saint Peter's University - Inside the Admissions Office: Expert Insights, Tips, and Advice - Mason Traino - Senior Assistant Director of Transfers
Saint Peter's University - Admissions------------------------------๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com

Apr 1, 2024 โข 30min
197. Pepperdine University - Inside the Admissions Office - Gianna Mack - Admission Counselor
๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.comโ-------------------------------Pepperdine - Undergraduate AdmissionAcademic Advising for AP & IB CoursesCampus Visits & ToursVirtual Application WorkshopAdmission Interviews

Mar 27, 2024 โข 38min
196. President of the College of Mount Saint Vincent - Dr. Susan Burns
๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.comโ-------------------------๐ In this episode I spoke with Dr. Susan Burns, the dynamic 6th President of the College of Mount St. Vincent. Dr. Burns shares valuable insights into what makes the College of Mount St. Vincent a compelling choice for students seeking an enriching educational experience, and here are some of the topics we discussed:๐ Background and Leadership Journey: Discover Dr. Burns' inspiring journey leading up to her presidency at the College of Mount St. Vincent. ๐ซ Gain insights into her background and the experiences that have shaped her leadership philosophy and vision for the institution.๐ Distinctive Features and Programs: Learn about the unique features and programs that distinguish the College of Mount St. Vincent from other institutions, attracting students seeking a nurturing and supportive academic environment. ๐๏ธ๐ Test-Optional Policies: Dr. Burns discusses the college's stance on standardized testing in the admissions process, offering insights into the evolving landscape of test-optional policies and their impact on future admissions trends. ๐๐ฐ Financial Aid and Scholarships: Gain valuable information about the financial aid and scholarship opportunities offered at the College of Mount St. Vincent, aimed at making education more accessible and affordable for students. ๐ต๐ Support for Diversity: Dr. Burns highlights the college's commitment to supporting a diverse student body, including first-generation college students and underrepresented minorities, fostering an inclusive and welcoming campus community. ๐ค๐ Top Advice for High School Students and Parents: Dr. Burns concludes with her top three pieces of advice for high school students and their parents embarking on the college application process, offering valuable guidance and support. ๐Listen in to gain invaluable insights into the College of Mount St. Vincent and receive expert advice for navigating the college admissions journey! ๐งCollege of Mount Saint Vincent Admissions Office

Mar 25, 2024 โข 32min
195. College of Charleston - Grace E. Vail - Admissions Counselor
๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.comโ-------------------------๐ In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," we discussed the offerings of the College of Charleston with Admission Counselor, Grace Vail. From academics to extracurriculars, Grace sheds light on what makes the College of Charleston stand out among other institutions, while offering great insights into their application review process and so much more including:๐ Admissions Process: Grace shares the College of Charleston's approach to the admissions process, focusing on the criteria and factors considered during application review. ๐ Learn about the percentage of out-of-state applicants and whether the application process differs based on residency status.๐ Application Evaluation: With a surge in applications, Grace discusses how the College of Charleston determines admissions decisions. ๐ค Gain insights into the considerations behind these crucial decisions.๐ Demonstrating Interest: Grace highlights ways students can demonstrate their interest in attending the College of Charleston and whether it impacts the application review process. ๐ค๐ High School Disparities: Learn how the College of Charleston evaluates applications from various high schools with differing resources, such as the availability of Advanced Placement courses. ๐ซ๐ Support Services: Discover the support services available for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to ensure their continued success on campus. ๐คโฝ Athletic Recruitment: Grace offers insights into the admissions process for student-athletes and shares advice on navigating the recruitment process. ๐
๐ Top Advice: Grace wraps up with her top three pieces of advice for students and parents preparing for the college process, providing actionable tips and guidance. ๐Listen in to gain valuable insights into the College of Charleston and invaluable advice for your college journey! ๐งCollege of Charleston Admission & Financial Aid

Mar 20, 2024 โข 32min
194. Bates College - Audrey Burns - Associate Dean of Admission & Director of Recruitment
In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," ๐๏ธ we sit down with Audrey Burns, Associate Dean of Admission & Director of Recruitment at Bates College, to gain valuable insights into the admissions process and what makes Bates College a sought-after destination for students. Join us as we explore the intricacies of college admissions and uncover the unique features of Bates College. ๐ซWhat Sets Bates College Apart:Discover what makes Bates College so appealing to prospective students and what sets it apart from other institutions. From its commitment to academic excellence to its vibrant campus community, Bates offers a unique and enriching experience for students. ๐Student Life and Extracurricular Activities:Audrey provides insights into the student life experience at Bates, including the wide range of extracurricular activities and organizations available to students. Explore the campus culture and the vibrant atmosphere that extends beyond the classroom. ๐Bates's Approach to Admissions:Gain insight into Bates's approach to the admissions process, including the criteria and factors considered when reviewing applications. Learn how the college ensures a holistic and equitable evaluation of each applicant. ๐คTest-Optional Policy and Application Statistics:Audrey discusses Bates College's test-optional policy and shares statistics on the percentage of students who applied and were admitted without submitting test scores. Explore the implications of this policy on the admissions process. ๐Thank you for joining us on this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast." We hope the insights shared by Audrey Burns from Bates College have provided valuable guidance as you navigate the journey to higher education. ๐Bates Admission------------------------------๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com

Mar 18, 2024 โข 24min
193. Texas Tech University - Rex Oliver, Director of Recruitment & Jennifer Mauppin, Associate Director of Recruitment
๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.comโ--------------------------------In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," ๐๏ธ we explore the unique insights provided by Rex Oliver, Director of Recruitment, and Jennifer Mauppin, Associate Director of Recruitment, from Texas Tech University. Join us as we discuss the various facets of the admissions process and discover what makes Texas Tech stand out in the realm of higher education. ๐Overview of Texas Tech University:Rex and Jennifer provide a comprehensive overview of Texas Tech's academic offerings, emphasizing the institution's distinguishing features. From robust academic opportunities to innovative programs, Texas Tech is committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for success in their chosen fields. ๐Student Life and Extracurricular Activities:Discover the vibrant student life at Texas Tech, including a wide array of extracurricular activities and organizations available to students. From cultural clubs to professional societies, there's something for everyone to explore and engage with outside the classroom. ๐Approach to Admissions:Gain insight into Texas Tech's approach to the admissions process, including the criteria and factors considered when reviewing applications. Learn how the university balances the increasing number of applications while ensuring a fair and holistic evaluation of each candidate. ๐คThank you for listening to this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast." We hope the insights shared by Rex Oliver and Jennifer Mauppin from Texas Tech University have provided valuable guidance as you navigate the path to higher education. ๐Texas Tech University, Admissions, Cost & Aid

Mar 13, 2024 โข 35min
192. Bard College - Inside the Admissions Office: Expert Insights, Tips, and Advice - Tessa Greenhalgh - Admissions Counselor
๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.comโ-----------------------------Bard College - Undergraduate AdmissionsHomeschooled Applicants Bard Immediate Decision PlanThe Bard Entrance ExamStudent Disability Access and Resources at Bard Financial Aid at Bard College

Mar 11, 2024 โข 19min
191. Goucher College - Inside the Admissions Office: Expert Insights, Tips, and Advice - Megan Steely - Assistant Director of Admissions for Visitor Engagement
Goucher College - Admissions------------------------------๐ 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 ๐ฏ๐โ-----------------------------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:๐ Get the Print Copy Here๐ Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com


