The College Admissions Process Podcast

🎙️ In this episode, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Charlotte Low, Senior Admissions Counselor at Seattle University! We dive deep into the academic offerings, application process, and financial aid opportunities at Seattle U, a highly regarded Jesuit institution located in the heart of Seattle. Whether you’re a prospective student or a parent navigating the college admissions process, this conversation provides valuable insights that apply to all families.📌 Top 4 Takeaways from Our Conversation:1️⃣ Seattle University’s Unique Academic & Jesuit Experience ✝️📚SU offers strong programs in business, nursing, engineering, and computer science.The Jesuit mission emphasizes academic excellence, social justice, and service-learning, creating well-rounded graduates.2️⃣ How Seattle’s Location Benefits Students 🌆💼Being in downtown Seattle provides students with access to internships, research opportunities, and career networks in top industries like tech, healthcare, and business.3️⃣ Application Review & Test-Optional Advice ✅📄Seattle U takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering GPA, course rigor, extracurriculars, and personal statements.Test-optional policy: Strong scores can enhance an application, but students should only submit them if they strengthen their overall profile.4️⃣ Financial Aid & Scholarship Opportunities 💰🎓Generous merit-based scholarships are available for high-achieving students.SU also offers need-based aid—families should complete the FAFSA early for the best opportunities!🏫 More About Seattle University:Location: Seattle, Washington 🌲🏙️Enrollment: ~7,200 studentsStudent-Faculty Ratio: 11:1 for a highly personalized educationJesuit Tradition: Focus on critical thinking, service, and leadershipPopular Majors: Business, Nursing, Computer Science, Engineering, PsychologySeattle University - Admissions & Aid—----------------------------👉 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

Alphabetical List of All Episodes with 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---------------------------Penn State Undergraduate Admissions Penn State Undergraduate BulletinPenn State Admission StatisticsPenn State Educational Equity

🎙️In this episode, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Derek Nettingham, the Director of Undergraduate Recruitment at The University of South Florida (USF) — a high-impact public research university with campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. Derek shared key insights into USF’s admissions process, institutional values, and the countless opportunities that help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you're a Florida resident or applying from across the country, this conversation will help all families better understand the admissions landscape and how to prepare thoughtfully.🎯 Top 4 Takeaways for Students and Families:1️⃣ USF Values Innovation + Student Success 🧠💡USF is nationally recognized for its commitment to high-impact practices in and out of the classroom. From undergraduate research to community engagement and entrepreneurial programs, students are encouraged to innovate and lead early in their college careers.2️⃣ Holistic Review with a Strong Academic Focus 📚📝Test scores are required at USF, but the admissions team goes far beyond numbers. Derek walks us through how they evaluate rigor, academic trends, and personal context, with attention to course offerings and grading scales across various high schools — especially for out-of-state applicants.3️⃣ Support for Neurodiverse and 2E Students 🤝🧩USF offers robust resources for students with IEPs or who identify as neurodiverse or twice-exceptional. The Student Accessibility Services office ensures equity and success through accommodations and individualized support plans, showing that inclusion is more than a buzzword — it’s a priority.4️⃣ Affordability + Scholarships Matter 💰🎓With merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and special programs for Florida residents, affordability is front and center. Derek shares tips on maximizing financial opportunities and planning ahead, including what families often overlook when applying.🏫 Fast Facts about The University of South Florida:🌎 USF enrolls over 50,000 students across its three campuses and is among the top 50 public universities in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report)💼 It ranks #1 in Florida and #8 nationally for social mobility — helping students graduate and succeed regardless of background🧪 USF is a Preeminent State Research University with over $680 million in annual research expenditures🏙️ Main campus in Tampa, with a dynamic, urban setting and growing global reputation🧭 Offers 200+ undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations — from STEM and health sciences to the arts and business💬 Final Words of Wisdom:Derek closes with his top three pieces of advice for students and families — from staying authentic during the application process to leveraging resources early. You’ll leave this episode feeling more informed, empowered, and ready to approach college admissions with confidence. 🎯📈—----------------------------👉 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

Alphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksEpisode Highlights: Comparing Big State Schools and Ivy League Admissions with Experts from Michigan State and Brown UniversityIn this episode I am joined by two distinguished guests: Larry Alterman, Manager of East Coast Recruitment at Michigan State University, and Logan Powell, Associate Provost for Enrollment and Dean of Admission at Brown University. Together, they explore the nuanced differences and surprising similarities between the admissions processes at a large public university and a prestigious Ivy League institution. Below are the top five takeaways from this insightful discussion:Unique Appeal of Each Institution 🎓Larry and Logan start by offering an intriguing perspective on what makes the other’s institution appealing. They discuss how Michigan State’s vibrant campus life and diverse academic opportunities make it a top choice for many students, while Brown’s open curriculum and intimate learning environment offer a distinctive experience that’s hard to match.Handling the Influx of Applications 📈Both admissions leaders share how their institutions manage the rising number of applications. Logan explains Brown’s strategic approach now that it’s no longer test-optional, focusing on maintaining a carefully curated freshman class. Larry discusses Michigan State’s approach, highlighting the flexibility offered by their test-optional policy and how they aim to meet the demand without compromising quality.Holistic Application Review Process 🔍Dive deep into the holistic review process at both universities. Larry outlines how Michigan State assesses applicants beyond just grades and test scores, while Logan provides insights into Brown’s thorough evaluation of academic rigor and personal character, emphasizing the subtle differences between public and private institution reviews.Beyond the Transcript: Evaluating the Whole Applicant 📑Discover what each school values most beyond the transcript. From extracurricular activities and essays to letters of recommendation, both Larry and Logan shed light on what stands out in an application and the qualities that resonate with their respective admissions committees.This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips for students, parents, and counselors alike. Whether you’re considering a large public university or a smaller private institution, Larry and Logan provide the knowledge you need to navigate the college admissions process with confidence. 🎧✨-----------------------👉 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 I’m joined by Grace Petry, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS), to give you a closer look at what makes this historic liberal arts college in Geneva, New York, a truly distinctive place for personal and academic growth. 🎓🌿Whether you're a student navigating your college list, a parent looking for the right fit for your child, or a counselor seeking to understand what makes HWS stand out—this episode is full of practical tips and inside knowledge.Here are 3 key highlights you won't want to miss:🔄 1. The Coordinate System – Tradition Meets InclusivityGrace explains how this model fosters both community and individualized leadership development—something you won’t find at many other colleges.✍️ 2. What Makes a Standout EssayGrace shares exactly what makes a personal statement grab the admissions team's attention at HWS. 💡 She offers tips on how to craft a compelling narrative and the importance of authenticity. If you're wondering what resonates (and what doesn’t), this section is a must-listen. 🧠📄💸 3. Financial Aid & Demonstrated InterestLearn how HWS approaches need-based aid, merit scholarships, and even the financial aid appeal process. 💵Additional Insights You’ll Gain:How class size goals and institutional priorities affect the application process 📊Guidance on submitting test scores in a test-optional environment 🎯Links shared by Grace:Centennial CenterCivic EngagementArt/ArchitectureMusicCreative WritingDanceTheatre—----------------------------👉 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

🎙 Unlocking Admissions at George Washington University with Lindsey M. Owens 🎙Are you considering George Washington University (GW) for your college journey? 🏛️ Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., GW offers unparalleled access to world-class internships, research opportunities, and a dynamic urban campus experience. In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Lindsey M. Owens, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at GW, to uncover key insights into the admissions process, what makes GW unique, and how students can stand out in their applications.🔥 Key Takeaways from This Episode:✅ Holistic Admissions & Application Insights 📄✨ GW takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications, considering transcripts, essays, extracurriculars, and test scores (optional for most students). Lindsey shares common application mistakes and offers practical tips on crafting standout essays that highlight what makes you a great fit for GW.🏛️ Foggy Bottom vs. Mount Vernon: Two Unique Campuses 🌍📚 GW is more than just its iconic Foggy Bottom campus steps from the White House! 🏛️ Lindsey dives into the benefits of GW’s two campuses, including Mt. Vernon, which offers a close-knit, residential feel just two miles away. Learn how students seamlessly navigate both locations for a well-rounded experience.📌 Maximizing Your GW Experience: Engagement & Fit 🔗🎓 How can you determine if GW is the right fit for you? Lindsey shares what makes an applicant stand out, how GW values engagement (but not demonstrated interest in admissions decisions), and ways students can connect through visits, virtual events, and outreach before applying.📢 Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you navigate the college process with confidence! 🎧 Hit play now and take one step closer to your college dreams!Don’t forget to subscribe & leave a review if you find this episode helpful! ⭐🎙️GW 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

🎙️In this episode, Matt Harris 🏅, Assistant Director of High School Review at the NCAA Eligibility Center 🏈, joins us to provide essential insights into the college recruitment and eligibility process for student-athletes. 🏃‍♂️ Key Takeaways:Understanding NCAA Eligibility and Division Differences 🏆📊Matt explains the eligibility requirements for NCAA Division I 🏈, Division II 🏀, and Division III 🏐 schools. He highlights the differences in recruitment, eligibility, and scholarships 🎓 across divisions. Whether you're aiming for the high-energy world of D1 🏆, the competitive nature of D2 🏅, or the academic-focus of D3 🏫, Matt breaks down how each division impacts student-athletes and their recruitment journey. ⚡Timing and Communication with Coaches: What Families Need to Know ⏰📞One of the top questions from families is when and how coaches 👨‍🏫 can contact prospective student-athletes 🏃‍♀️. Matt dives into recruitment timelines 🗓️, explaining the rules 📋 surrounding coach contact. This is crucial advice for families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 to help their athletes stay on track and understand when to take the next steps in the recruitment process. 🏅Listen to this episode to:Gain insider knowledge on the differences between NCAA divisions and their impact on eligibility and recruitment 💡🎓Learn when and how coaches are allowed to contact student-athletes during the recruitment process 📞🏃‍♂️AND SO MUCH MORE!—----------------------------👉 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 of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante is joined by Dr. Bryan Gross, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Athletics at Hartwick College 🦅. Together, they unpack the college’s application review process, how Hartwick stays rooted in its mission and values, and what families should focus on as they navigate today’s evolving admissions landscape. Whether you're a student, parent, or counselor, this episode is full of practical advice and behind-the-scenes insight.📍 Hartwick College, located in Oneonta, NY, offers a personalized liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement.🔥 Top 3 Highlights You Can’t Miss:1️⃣ What Hartwick Really Looks For in Applications 📝📚 Dr. Gross takes us behind the scenes of Hartwick’s holistic review process, where every component of an application plays a meaningful role. He breaks down how academic performance, extracurricular involvement, the essay, and letters of recommendation are evaluated — and shares what can truly make an application stand out. 🎯 One key takeaway? Authenticity and alignment with the school’s values are more important than perfection.2️⃣ Test-Optional Doesn’t Mean Test-Blind 🎯📊 With many schools going test-optional, Dr. Gross explains how Hartwick considers standardized test scores when submitted. Yes, Hartwick does superscore — meaning they’ll consider the highest section scores across test dates — and that can work in an applicant's favor when testing is strong. 🧠✅3️⃣ Hartwick’s Core Mission: Values in Action 💙📖 Dr. Gross emphasizes Hartwick’s commitment to community, character, and experiential education. He encourages students to reflect on how their own values and goals align with Hartwick’s mission — and to communicate that alignment clearly in their applications. That kind of intentional match isn’t just appreciated; it’s noticed. ✍️🌟🎯 Don’t miss his top 3 pieces of advice at the end of the episode — they’re a must-hear for every college-bound student and family.✅ Fast Facts About Hartwick College:📍 Location: Oneonta, NY👨‍🎓 Undergraduate Enrollment: Approx. 1,200🌟 Known For: Strong liberal arts education, experiential learning, close-knit campus community🔗 Website: https://www.hartwick.edu—----------------------------👉 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

🎉 Episode 300: Mastering the College Essay with Kate Anderson & Laurie Wax ✍️📚Welcome to the special 300th episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast! 🎙️ I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from my amazing listeners and the many admissions experts who have shared their invaluable insights along the way. Thank you for being a part of this journey! 🙌In this milestone episode, I’m joined by Kate Anderson and Laurie Wax, two seasoned admissions professionals, to dive deep into one of the most crucial parts of the college application—the essay. 📄✏️🔥 Key Takeaways:1️⃣ The Power of the Essay: Your Story, Your Control 📝✨Your grades, activities, and past experiences are set in stone, but your essay is still in your hands! Kate and Laurie emphasize how students should embrace this opportunity to showcase their personality and unique experiences.2️⃣ AI & College Essays: Use Wisely, Not as a Shortcut 🤖🚫With AI tools becoming more accessible, students may be tempted to rely on them for their essays. While AI can be a helpful brainstorming tool, Kate warns that it lacks soul and authenticity. Admissions officers can tell when an essay isn’t genuine, so always make it your own!3️⃣ The Essay Won’t Make or Break You—But It Can Help! 📊✅While grades and course rigor remain the top factors in admissions, a compelling essay can sway decisions in close cases. Laurie reminds students to focus on crafting an authentic and polished essay, as it’s one of the few application components still within their control.4️⃣ Attention to Detail Matters: Beyond Just the Essay 🔍✍️Many students put all their energy into their essay but neglect the activities section of the Common App. Kate stresses the importance of filling out every part of the application thoroughly—typos or missing activities can weaken an otherwise strong application.As always, my goal is to bring you expert insights that demystify the college admissions process. Thank you for making these 300 episodes possible! Here’s to many more! 🎉🎧—----------------------------👉 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

🎙️ Inside the Private Admissions World: An Interview with Akbar Rahel, Director of Admissions at Prep Expert📌 Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Akbar Rahel, the Director of Admissions at Prep Expert — our podcast’s title sponsor — to discuss the realities and ethics behind private college counseling. This episode is a must-listen for students, parents, and college counselors looking to better understand how private admissions professionals support students while maintaining authenticity and integrity throughout the process.Whether you're navigating the test-optional landscape or looking for ways to elevate your application, Akbar shares real strategies, ethical boundaries, and the inside scoop on what truly matters in today’s competitive admissions world. 🧠📚✅ Top 3 Key Takeaways You Can’t Miss:✍️ Keeping It Real – Students Must Own Their VoiceAkbar emphasizes the importance of authenticity in application materials. While private admissions counselors offer expert guidance, students are always expected to write their own essays and complete their own work. Maintaining the applicant’s unique voice is not just ethical — it’s essential to a compelling and honest application.🎯 Setting Clear Expectations with FamiliesPrivate counselors work closely with families to align expectations and reduce stress. Akbar explains how transparency, mutual accountability, and realistic goal setting are key to a successful counseling relationship — ensuring the process stays focused, student-centered, and productive.🧪 The Role of Test Scores in a Test-Optional WorldDespite the growth of test-optional policies, strong SAT/ACT scores can still be a game-changer for students aiming to stand out in a large applicant pool. Akbar breaks it all down while discussing what other factors — like essays, activities, and academic rigor — admissions teams are looking for. 🧬📈CLICK HERE to schedule a FREE consultation with the Prep Expert Admissions Counseling Team.—----------------------------👉 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