The College Admissions Process Podcast

🎓In this episode we welcome Amber Caputo, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Iona University. Amber shares valuable insights into Iona’s application review process, academic offerings, and the supportive community that sets Iona apart. Whether you’re a student, parent, or college counselor, this episode is packed with actionable advice and insider tips to help you navigate the college admissions journey. 🌟Highlights from This Episode:Iona’s Close-Knit Community & Service Opportunities 🤝🌍Iona University is renowned for its welcoming and supportive environment. Amber discusses how Iona fosters a sense of community through on-campus engagement and service-learning projects. Students are encouraged to participate in meaningful service opportunities that allow them to connect with the surrounding community while building valuable skills. These initiatives not only enrich the student experience but also prepare graduates to make a difference in the world. 💪✨Exceptional Academic and Career Preparation Programs 🎓💼Amber highlights some of Iona’s most popular academic programs and the unique experiential learning opportunities they offer. Iona’s career services team plays a critical role in supporting students by connecting them with internships and jobs, while the extensive alumni network opens doors for mentorship and career advancement. The personalized approach to student success ensures that graduates leave Iona well-prepared for life after college. 🚀📈Holistic Admissions Process & Personal Statement Tips ✍️📚Amber explains Iona’s holistic review process, which considers more than just grades and test scores. She also provides tips on writing a compelling personal statement, emphasizing the importance of sharing authentic and unique stories. Plus, she offers advice on how engaging with the college—through campus visits, virtual events, or other forms of outreach—can positively impact a student’s application. 🎯💡Quick Facts About Iona University:Location: New Rochelle, New York 🌆Known For: A tight-knit community, robust academic programs, and personalized student support. 🏆Service Learning: A key aspect of the Iona experience, with numerous opportunities to give back and grow. 🌱❤️About | Iona UniversityRankings | Iona UniversityIona Ireland | Iona UniversityNewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences | Iona UniversityComprehensive Assistance Program at Iona UniversityApplying to CAP-----------------------------👉 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

📚Mastering Test Prep & Scholarships with Dr. Shaan Patel from Prep Expert 🎓In this value-packed episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Shaan Patel, Founder and CEO of Prep Expert 🧠, to dive deeper into the world of standardized test prep, scholarships, and strategies for success in the digital age! 🎯💡 Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Navigating the Digital SAT: Dr. Patel shares the latest insights and tips to help students smoothly transition to the new digital format. 📱💻 ✅ Test Prep for Beginners: Overwhelmed by the thought of SAT/ACT prep? Dr. Patel breaks it down and offers practical advice for families just starting their journey. 📝🎓 ✅ Avoiding the “Kiss of Death” in SAT Writing: Learn about key phrases to avoid and why they can hurt your score. ✏️⚠️ ✅ Speed-Reading Strategies for SAT Reading: Discover how to practice speed-reading effectively without losing comprehension. 📚⏩ ✅ Winning Scholarships Before 12th Grade: Dr. Patel explains why starting early is critical and shares actionable steps for securing scholarships. 💸🎁 ✅ Mastering Test-Taking Strategies: Prep Expert goes beyond teaching content—find out how they ensure students master the strategies needed to excel. 🧠🏆 ✅ Common Test Prep Mistakes to Avoid: Dr. Patel highlights frequent errors and how to steer clear of them. 🚫📉 ✅ Choosing the Right Test Prep Program: Learn what to look for in a test prep company and what sets Prep Expert apart from the rest. 🔎✨ ✅ Understanding Prep Expert’s Score Guarantees: Dr. Patel explains how Prep Expert delivers impressive results with industry-leading guarantees. 🎯📈🎙️ Bonus Insight: Dr. Patel shares his top advice for students and families as they navigate the college admissions journey! 🚀🎓👉This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers industry-leading test prep and scholarship strategies with impressive score guarantees. Learn more at [Insert Prep Expert Link]. 🎯📚🔗 Learn More About Prep Expert: www.PrepExpert.com👉CLICK HERE for more details on Shaan’s book.📚💬 Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with friends who could benefit! 🙌#CollegeAdmissions #TestPrep #DigitalSAT #ScholarshipTips #PrepExpert #ParentTips #StudentSuccess #HigherEd #SATStrategies

🎙️ Insider Tips from Stephen Pultz, Assistant VP for Enrollment at the University of San Diego 📚In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante sits down with Stephen Pultz, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment at the University of San Diego (USD), to explore key aspects of the college admissions process, the unique offerings at USD, and expert advice for prospective students and their families. Whether you're a high school student, parent, or college counselor, this episode is packed with valuable insights to guide you on your journey!💡 Key Highlights:Transformative Academic Programs & Experiential Learning 🌟USD stands out with popular academic programs in areas such as business, engineering, and international relations. Learn how experiential learning opportunities, including internships and hands-on projects, help students bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. Learn how USD prepares students for life after graduation with initiatives like study abroad programs, available in over 80 countries! ✈️🌍Faith, Service, & Community 🌟As a Catholic institution, USD integrates faith and service into the student experience through initiatives like the Mulvaney Center for Community, Awareness, and Social Action. Students connect their academic journey with personal growth and service, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging. 🕊️🤝Holistic Admissions Process & Application Tips ✍️Stephen breaks down USD’s holistic review process, emphasizing the value of course rigor, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays that reflect authenticity. He also shares how supplemental essays provide students the chance to showcase their unique stories and why demonstrated interest—such as campus visits or virtual engagement—matters in the admissions process. 📝🎓📊 Did You Know?USD boasts an impressive 92% freshman retention rate, highlighting the supportive and vibrant campus community.Scholarships and financial aid programs include opportunities for merit aid and specialized awards for service and leadership. 💵🎉USD’s Common Data Set is a goldmine of information for understanding admissions trends, student demographics, and financial aid—don’t miss Stephen’s explanation of how to use it effectively! 📑🔍--------------------👉 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 List

🎙️ How to Win College Scholarships with Monica Matthews 💰 Are you searching for ways to make college more affordable? In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Monica Matthews, scholarship expert and creator of www.how2winscholarships.com to uncover the best strategies for finding and winning scholarships! 🎓✨🚀 Top 3 Takeaways from This Episode:1️⃣ Avoid the Biggest Scholarship Mistakes ❌ – Monica shares the most common missteps students and parents make, from missing deadlines to submitting generic applications. Learn how to stand out and maximize your chances of winning!2️⃣ Find Hidden & Overlooked Scholarships 🔍 – Think you don’t qualify? Think again! Monica reveals where to look for lesser-known scholarships that students of all backgrounds can apply for.3️⃣ Stay Organized & Motivated 📅 – The scholarship search can feel overwhelming, but Monica provides a simple system to help students stay on track and keep applying, even after starting college!✨ BONUS: Learn how to spot scholarship scams, leverage AI tools for applications, and hear a real success story of a student who won big!Direct link to order Monica’s ebooks:  https://how2winscholarships.com/order-now/Monica’s Facebook private group for parents:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/ScholarshipHelpCollegeTalkMonica’s Facebook page that is open to all:  https://www.facebook.com/How.To.Win.College.ScholarshipsMonica’s Instagram:  https://instagram.com/aidscholarship/Monica’s YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MonicaMatthews----------------------------👉 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 List

👉 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 List------------------------🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Martha Stolze, Director of Admissions at Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin. 🌟 Known for its innovative liberal arts education, Beloit offers students the chance to grow academically, socially, and personally. Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help guide your college admissions journey. 🎓🎯 Key Takeaways from This Episode🌍 Standout Academic Programs and Unique Learning OpportunitiesBeloit College is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to learning, where students can combine interests across multiple fields of study. With robust internship programs, research opportunities, and study abroad experiences, Beloit ensures students graduate with real-world experience and global perspectives.📝 Crafting a Standout ApplicationMartha dives into Beloit’s holistic application review process, highlighting how the admissions team evaluates a student’s transcript, weighing course rigor versus GPA. Plus, she shares tips on whether to submit standardized test scores at this test-optional institution and pitfalls to avoid in your personal statement. Want to stand out? Authenticity and thoughtful storytelling are key!💰 Financial Aid & ScholarshipsBeloit offers generous merit-based scholarships and financial aid opportunities to make education accessible. Martha shares tips on how to position yourself for awards and discusses how tools like the Common Data Set can be a game-changer for families during the college search process. 💵📌 Additional Episode Highlights:What makes student life at Beloit special? Clubs, traditions, and campus culture that foster connection and growth. 🎭📚🎉The importance of demonstrated interest—learn how campus visits and outreach can enhance your application. 🏫Martha’s top three tips for students and families navigating the admissions process.Beloit College is a place where intellectual curiosity meets hands-on learning, preparing students for success in an ever-changing world. 🌟 Tune in to this episode for a closer look at how Beloit can help you achieve your college goals! 🎓Beloit College Admissions

🎙In this insightful conversation with Dr. Ramon Blakley, Interim Director of Admissions, University of Texas at Austin, we explore the University of Texas at Austin's approach to admissions, academic offerings, and support for students. Whether you're considering UT Austin or just navigating the college application process, this episode is packed with actionable advice and key takeaways for students and parents alike.🔑 Some Key Takeaways1️⃣ Retention Rate and Student Support 🏫UT Austin boasts an impressive 96.7% freshman retention rate, a testament to its commitment to student success.Comprehensive transition programs help students acclimate to college life, ensuring they feel connected to the community.Academic and personal support services are available for students of all backgrounds, including resources tailored for unique learning needs.2️⃣ Interdisciplinary Learning Opportunities 📚UT Austin encourages students to blend disciplines across its 18 colleges and schools, fostering innovation and creativity.Examples include dual majors, interdisciplinary research projects, and collaborations between fields like engineering and fine arts.3️⃣ Holistic Admissions and Application Tips 📄The admissions team uses a holistic review process, considering academic rigor, extracurriculars, essays, and personal experiences.UT Austin values advanced coursework, but it’s equally important to balance GPA with personal growth and unique stories.Dr. Blakley shares practical advice on avoiding common essay pitfalls and making your application stand out.📍 Facts About UT AustinLocation: Austin, Texas, a vibrant city known for its live music, tech scene, and cultural diversity 🎶👩‍💻.Student Body: Over 51,000 students, with representation from all 50 states and 123 countries 🌎.Academic Excellence: Ranked among the Top 10 public universities in the U.S., offering 170+ fields of study.Experiential Learning: Home to programs like the Longhorn Startup, Texas Global, and robust internship partnerships with companies like Dell and IBM 💼.School Spirit: The Texas Longhorns are legendary for their athletic achievements and campus traditions 🤘🐂.🎙 Discussion TopicsUT Austin’s popular programs, including business, engineering, and fine arts, and how they prepare students for the workforce.Insights into the holistic admissions process and what UT Austin looks for in applicants.The importance of supplemental essays and how they provide a deeper glimpse into an applicant’s unique perspective.Resources like the Common Data Set to help families make informed decisions about applying to UT Austin.Common Data Set College Navigator Texas Parents University of Texas at Austin 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 List

🎧 In this insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante interviews Jared Pierce, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Babson College. This episode is packed with valuable tips for students, parents, and college counselors to better understand Babson’s unique academic offerings, the admissions process, and how to make a standout application. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or looking to explore interdisciplinary opportunities, Jared offers expert advice on navigating the path to Babson.Here are 3 key takeaways from this episode:1️⃣ Babson’s Entrepreneurial Focus Across All DisciplinesBabson College is known for its entrepreneurial mindset that extends beyond the business school. Jared Pierce explains how Babson integrates entrepreneurship into every discipline, from the arts to the sciences. This interdisciplinary approach sets Babson apart, preparing students to be innovative leaders in any field. If you're someone who wants to combine business with your passion for another subject, this episode is a must-listen! 🚀📚2️⃣ Holistic Admissions Review & How to Stand OutJared provides detailed insights into Babson’s holistic admissions process, emphasizing what the admissions team is looking for in prospective students. Whether it's leadership experiences, entrepreneurial activities, or your academic rigor, Jared breaks down how to best present yourself in your application. He also shares tips on how to write a standout personal statement and avoid common pitfalls. ✍️📈3️⃣ Test-Optional Policy & Financial Aid OpportunitiesWith Babson being test-optional, Jared offers guidance on whether students should submit their standardized test scores and how doing so impacts their application. He also covers Babson’s approach to merit-based scholarships and financial aid, with tips on how to best position yourself for these opportunities. 💡💰 Jared encourages students to take advantage of resources like the Common Data Set to better understand Babson’s admissions and financial aid data. 📊🏫Additional Highlights:Different ways to apply to Babson: Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision 📅The importance of extracurricular activities and how they complement Babson’s academic experience 🎨🎓Tips on writing supplemental essays that add a personal touch to your application ✏️📝Babson College - 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 List

Mike & Amy's Website - Tests and the RestMike Bergin is the president of Chariot Learning and creator of the TestBright SAT/ACT Curriculum System and Roots2Words. Amy Seeley is the president of Seeley Test Pros and LEAP. Between them, expect over 60 years of industry knowledge, educational expertise, insider insight, and maybe a bit of sarcasm.--------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you on my podcast 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 List

🎓In this episode I had the pleasure of welcoming back Pete Saenz, the Assistant Director of Admissions at Boston University (BU), to discuss what’s new since our last conversation in Episode 99. Boston University, located in the heart of Boston, is a vibrant, urban campus known for its academic rigor, exceptional student support systems, and strong retention rate of 94%. This episode is filled with key takeaways that will be valuable for students and parents navigating the college admissions process, not only for BU but for all colleges.🎙️Some Takeaways from the Episode 💡📚Finding Community at a Large Urban University 🏫🤝BU is a large, urban school, but students quickly find their community! 💬 Whether it’s through student clubs, organizations, or campus events, there are endless ways to get involved. Pete discussed BU's extensive support systems, which include everything from academic advisors to peer mentors, all designed to help students transition smoothly from high school to college life. The 94% retention rate is proof that students feel a strong sense of belonging at BU, and Pete explained the resources available to help students thrive academically and personally.Application Tips: Holistic Review and Test-Optional Policy 📝✨Wondering how BU reviews applications? Pete broke down BU's holistic review process, where admissions counselors look at more than just grades and test scores. He emphasized the importance of course rigor, extracurricular involvement, and a well-written personal essay. With BU being test-optional, Pete also offered advice on when students should consider submitting standardized test scores, noting that in some cases it may strengthen an application. However, the decision should be based on whether the scores truly reflect the student’s abilities. 📚✅Holistic Admissions Process 📝BU takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications, considering not only academic performance but also extracurricular activities, personal essays, and life experiences. Pete explained how BU evaluates course rigor versus GPA and the balance they seek in prospective students, particularly those applying to competitive majors like engineering, business, and health sciences. He also provided tips on when submitting test scores (though test-optional) might strengthen an application.Support for Student Success and Community Building at BU 🏫🤝With a retention rate of 94%, BU is dedicated to ensuring students feel a sense of community from day one. Pete highlighted the extensive academic and personal support services BU provides, from tutoring to mental health services, to help students navigate challenges and thrive in a large university environment. Despite its urban setting, BU fosters a close-knit community with robust clubs, activities, and resources for students to find their place.🎓 Additional BU Highlights 🎓Location and Urban Setting: BU is located along the Charles River in Boston, offering students the chance to study in one of the most exciting cities in the U.S. with easy access to internships, cultural experiences, and career opportunities.Retention Rate: With a 94% retention rate, Boston University is among the top schools for student satisfaction, indicating that students feel supported and motivated to continue their education there.Popular Programs: BU is renowned for its School of Management, College of Engineering, and Communications School, among many others. Experiential learning and research opportunities help students gain hands-on experience in their fields of study.Test-Optional Policy: BU continues to be test-optional, which means students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. Pete emphasized that students should only submit scores if they enhance their application, and their holistic review ensures a well-rounded evaluation.Boston 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 List

👉 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 List------------------------🎙️In this exciting episode I had the great privilege of interviewing Chelsea Holley, Director of Admissions at Spelman College. As one of the most prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the country, Spelman is celebrated for empowering African American women through rigorous academics, a supportive campus culture, and a focus on leadership and community engagement.This conversation is not just for those interested in Spelman—it’s packed with valuable insights to help all families navigate the college admissions process. ✨🎓🏆 Top 4 Takeaways from This Episode1️⃣ The Power of HBCUs in Transforming LivesChelsea highlights Spelman’s mission to educate and empower African American women, fostering leadership, resilience, and excellence. With an alumni network that includes global leaders like Marian Wright Edelman, Stacey Abrams, and Rosalind Brewer, Spelman continues to shape trailblazers in every field. 🌟💼2️⃣ Signature Academic ProgramsSpelman is renowned for programs in STEM, social sciences, and arts, with standout initiatives like the Women in STEM program and partnerships with institutions like Georgia Tech and Emory University. These collaborations provide Spelman students with unique dual-degree opportunities, expanding their career horizons. 🧬🔬3️⃣ A Culture of Community and SupportWith a 91% retention rate, Spelman fosters a campus culture where students feel supported and connected. From peer mentoring to faculty engagement, Chelsea explains how the college builds a sense of sisterhood that keeps students thriving throughout their college journey. 🤝🌺4️⃣ How to Make Your Application ShineChelsea shares Spelman’s holistic admissions approach, offering advice on crafting compelling essays, impactful recommendation letters, and navigating the test-optional process. She also touches on the benefits of applying Early Decision or Early Action for students seeking to maximize their chances of admission and merit-based scholarships. 📝📈🎓 Spelman College Fast FactsLocation: Atlanta, Georgia 🌆Founded: 1881, as the first historically Black college for women Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 studentsTop Programs: Biology, Economics, Psychology, and Political Science 📚💡Retention Rate: 91% (national average is around 66%) 📊Alumni Network: 20,000+ alumnae across the globe 🌍✨ Additional Insights from This EpisodeResources for students with IEPs and 504 plans ensure academic success through dedicated accommodations and services. ✅📖Chelsea shares trends in personal statements and tips to avoid clichés, emphasizing authenticity and a clear narrative. ✍️Spelman’s test-optional policy empowers students to decide whether their standardized test scores reflect their abilities. 🎯📜🔑 Final ThoughtsThis episode is a must-listen for anyone exploring colleges, not just those interested in HBCUs. Chelsea’s expertise offers actionable advice for all families, providing tools to navigate every step of the admissions process.🔗 Don’t forget to share this episode with friends and family who are starting their college journey!Spelman College - Admissions