The College Admissions Process Podcast

🎙️ 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

🎙️In this episode, we dive deep into the admissions process, academic offerings, and student resources at USC with Kirk Brennan, Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Admission. Whether you're a student, parent, or counselor, you’ll gain valuable insights to help you navigate the college admissions process. 🎓🎯 Key Takeaways from This Episode:USC’s Unique Programs and Opportunities 🌍🎭📚USC is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, offering unique programs that allow students to combine their passions. From the World Bachelor in Business to its celebrated School of Cinematic Arts, USC provides opportunities that stand out. Plus, being in the heart of Los Angeles connects students with internships, research opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene, enhancing the overall college experience.Crafting a Standout Application ✏️📜✅Learn what USC looks for in a standout application. Kirk Brennan shares tips on how to showcase your authentic self through personal statements and supplemental essays. He also highlights the importance of course rigor over just GPA, explaining what USC values most when reviewing transcripts. Avoid common pitfalls and elevate your application to shine in a competitive pool.Test-Optional and Financial Aid Insights 💰📊🎓Did you know USC is test-optional? Discover how many admitted students chose not to submit standardized test scores. Plus, Kirk discusses the variety of scholarships and financial aid options available and how students can position themselves for merit-based awards.🏫 About USC:Located in Los Angeles, USC is home to a diverse student body and offers over 150 majors and minors. With strong alumni networks, cutting-edge facilities, and a commitment to fostering innovation, USC is a top choice for students worldwide. 🌴☀️📌 Additional Highlights:Resources available to help students transition and succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. 💡🤝An overview of application types (Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision) and how they can impact your chances of admission or merit aid. 📆✔️Kirk’s top three pieces of advice for students and families preparing for the college admissions process. 📝💡USC 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 insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, we dive deep into what makes SUNY Maritime a standout institution for students interested in maritime and technical fields. 🚢I had the pleasure of speaking with Alex El Helou, Associate Director of Admissions at SUNY Maritime, who shared valuable insights into their unique programs, hands-on learning experiences, and tips for navigating the admissions process. Whether you're a prospective student, a parent, or a college counselor, this episode offers a wealth of information to guide your college research! 🔍✨🎓Here are 3 key takeaways you won’t want to miss:🌊 Unique Academic Programs and Real-World TrainingSUNY Maritime offers specialized programs in fields like marine transportation, engineering, and international business, preparing students for careers in the maritime industry and beyond. The curriculum is heavily integrated with hands-on training and real-world experiences 🚢, including opportunities to work aboard the school’s training ship. These practical experiences set SUNY Maritime students apart in an industry that values hands-on expertise.👨‍✈️ The Regiment of Cadets: A Unique Student ExperienceOne of the most distinctive aspects of SUNY Maritime is its Regiment of Cadets. While participation is optional, Alex explains the day-to-day life of a cadet and how this structured program helps develop leadership, discipline, and teamwork skills 🛥️. It’s a key feature of SUNY Maritime’s approach to education, offering students a chance to grow in both academic and professional dimensions.📑 Holistic Admissions and Test-Optional PolicySUNY Maritime takes a holistic approach to its application review process, looking beyond just numbers and test scores to understand each applicant’s story. Although the school is test-optional, Alex provides valuable insights into the percentage of accepted students who chose not to submit test scores. This discussion will help students feel more confident in their application strategies ✍️, especially for those considering going test-optional.📢 Don’t forget to listen to the full episode for additional tips and advice from Alex, including his top three pieces of advice for students and parents navigating the college admissions process! 🌟Maritime 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🎓In this episode, I sit down with Nickala Hagarty, the Associate Director of Admission at Susquehanna University. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from campus updates and popular academic offerings to a breakdown of Susquehanna’s holistic review process and expert tips on how to make your application stand out. Whether you're a student considering Susquehanna University or simply navigating the college admissions process, this episode is packed with useful information for all families.Top 4 Takeaways:1️⃣ Holistic Admissions and Test-Optional Policies:Susquehanna University continues to follow a holistic review process, meaning they look at much more than just grades and test scores 📄. Susquehanna is truly test-optional and families can feel confident that applying without scores won’t hurt a student’s chances, as long as the rest of the application showcases strengths.2️⃣ Academic and Extracurricular Excellence:Susquehanna University offers a wide range of popular academic programs, with business, creative writing, and health sciences among the top choices 📚. In terms of student life, the university boasts over 120 clubs and organizations, so students have endless ways to get involved on campus. Nickala also emphasized that leadership roles and involvement in extracurriculars are more important than ever in the admissions process, so students should make these experiences a priority in their applications.3️⃣ Essay and Letters of Recommendation Tips:Personal statements remain a key part of a successful application. Nickala advised that authenticity is crucial when crafting a compelling essay ✍️. For letters of recommendation, she highlighted that impactful examples often come from teachers who truly know the student’s academic and personal growth, making them more meaningful.4️⃣ Support for Students with IEPs and 504 Plans:Susquehanna University is dedicated to supporting students with individual needs. For those coming from high school with IEPs or 504 plans, the university offers a variety of accommodations and services to ensure continued support throughout their college experience 🧑‍🏫.Susquehanna University Fast Facts:Located in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, Susquehanna University is a liberal arts institution offering more than 100 majors and minors across a broad range of disciplines.Known for its GO Program 🌍, all students participate in off-campus learning experiences, which could be study abroad or service learning, fostering global awareness and intercultural competencies.The campus community is driven by close student-faculty relationships, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, ensuring personal attention and support.Susquehanna University Admission & Aid