The College Admissions Process Podcast

📚🎓 In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," I had the great pleasure of interviewing Bruce Bunnick, who is the Director of Admissions at Lehigh University. Bruce and I explored their unique academic offerings, holistic application review process, while gaining valuable insights into the vibrant campus life at Lehigh.🌟 Some Key Takeaways:Academic Distinctions: Discover Lehigh University's standout academic programs and unique opportunities that set it apart from other institutions. 🏫Extracurricular Experiences: Learn about the diverse extracurricular activities and campus life experiences that await students at Lehigh. 🎉Holistic Application Review: Gain insights into Lehigh's holistic approach to application evaluation, covering academic records, extracurriculars, recommendation letters, and more. 📚Crafting Standout Essays: Get expert advice on crafting standout essays that authentically reflect a student's personality and aspirations. 📝Impactful Recommendation Letters: Understand what makes a recommendation letter truly impactful and how students should approach choosing recommenders. 💌Test-Optional Trend: Explore the test-optional trend and its impact on admission, along with Bruce Bunnick's predictions for the future. 📊Addressing Educational Disparities: Learn how Lehigh considers the variation in available Advanced Placement courses among different high schools. 🎓Support for Students with IEPs: Discover the opportunities Lehigh offers to students that had Individualized Education Plans (IEP) in high school for continued success on campus. 🌈Homeschooling Application Process: Gain insights into the unique aspects of the application process for homeschooled students and the review process from the admissions office. 🏡Bruce's Insights: Explore topics not covered in the questions, as Bruce Bunnick shares additional insights and perspectives. 🤔Top Three Pieces of Advice from Bruce: Wrap up the episode with Bruce's top three pieces of advice for students and parents navigating the college admissions process. 🚀Lehigh University - Undergraduate Admissions------------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jen Gagne, the Executive Director of Admissions at the Colorado School of Mines. Whether you’re a prospective student, parent, or college counselor, this episode is packed with valuable insights into what makes Mines stand out from the crowd. 🏔️✨In This Episode, You'll Learn:🔍 Campus Updates: Jen shares the latest and greatest developments at Mines, from exciting new projects to campus innovations.💬 Retention Rate Secrets: Discover what contributes to Mines’ impressive 92% retention rate and how their unique programs help students transition smoothly from high school to college. 📈📊 Holistic Review Process: Jen explains how Mines evaluates applications, including what they look for beyond test scores and the importance of a well-rounded application.📚 Testing Policy Changes: Get the scoop on Mines’ current stance on standardized testing and how it affects your application. 📝✍️ Crafting Compelling Essays: Learn what stands out in personal statements and essays, along with tips for making your narrative shine.🎖️ Extracurriculars and Leadership: Find out how extracurricular activities and leadership roles are evaluated and their importance in the application process.📜 Impactful Recommendations: What makes a letter of recommendation truly impactful? Jen shares her insights.🔎 Support for IEP/504 Students: Explore the resources Mines offers to support students with IEPs or 504 plans and ensure a smooth transition to college life.Colorado School of Mines AdmissionsFirst-Year Admissions RequirementsApplying to Mines M climbMines Fight SongDisability Support Services Undergraduate Research OpportunitiesLabriola Innovation HubCornerstone DesignCapstone DesignBeck Venture CenterQuantum Tech HubEdgar Experimental MineUSGS------------------------------👉 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

👉 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—----------------------------Fairfield University - Office of Undergraduate AdmissionsAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email List The College Admissions Process Podcast - Social Media Links

👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com—---------------------------🎙 In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, we're joined by Gloria A. Darko, Assistant Director of Admission at Carnegie Mellon University, to uncover what makes CMU a top choice for students and how they support their students' success both academically and personally.Some of the topics we covered include:🎓 Why Carnegie Mellon? Gloria shares her passion for CMU, emphasizing its unique blend of rigorous academics and vibrant campus life. From cutting-edge research opportunities to a tight-knit community, CMU offers a transformative college experience.😊 The Secret to Retention: With an impressive 97% freshman retention rate, CMU stands out nationally. Gloria unveils the strategies behind this success, revealing a supportive environment that prioritizes student well-being and engagement.📚 Transcript Evaluation: Gain insights into CMU's approach to reviewing transcripts. Gloria explains the nuanced criteria they consider, tailored to each student's intended major, ensuring a holistic assessment of academic readiness.📝 Standout Essays: Discover the power of authentic storytelling in college applications emphasizing the importance of sincerity and self-expression.🔍 Supplemental Essays & Test-Optional Policy: Stay tuned as we delve into CMU's supplemental essays, test-optional policy, and the role of AP/IB scores, providing invaluable guidance for students and parents navigating the college admissions journey.🎧Tune in to learn the essential strategies and advice from Carnegie Mellon University to elevate your college application game! 🏫Links from Gloria:Undergraduate Admission RequirementsAcademic Requirements & Credit for College-Level WorkApplication Plans and DeadlinesApplying for Aid

Bucknell University - AdmissionsBucknell University - Find Your Conselor Journey to BucknellPlan a VisitThe Center for Access & Success------------------------------👉 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

UC Berkeley Admissions  UC Berkeley Virtual Tour  UC Berkeley Academic Guide  UC Berkeley Campus Life  Thriving Initiatives  Financial Aid and Scholarships Office  Financial Aid Cal-culator (Net Price Calculator)  Scholarships  Cal Athletics  A - G Academic Subject Requirements  Personal Insight QuestionsNCAA Website-------------------------------👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:🔗 Get the Print Copy Here🔗 Get the eBook HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com

In this episode we dive deep into the University of Calgary with Bailey Fawcett, a Student Recruitment Advisor. Bailey provides invaluable insights into what makes the University of Calgary a standout choice for students, especially those from the United States. Whether you're a student gearing up for the college admissions process or a parent helping your child navigate this journey, this episode is packed with essential information to aid your college research.Key Highlights:Benefits of Studying Abroad 🌏✈️:Discover the key advantages of pursuing higher education abroad, particularly at the University of Calgary. Bailey discusses how studying in a different country can broaden your perspectives, enhance your global awareness, and provide unique opportunities that might not be available at home.Top Academic Programs and Majors 📚💡:Get an overview of the University of Calgary’s most popular academic programs and majors. Learn about the unique strengths and offerings that set these programs apart, and how they can help shape your academic and professional future.Admissions Process and Criteria 📝🔍:Gain insights into the University of Calgary’s approach to the admissions process, especially for international students. Bailey explains the criteria and factors considered during application reviews, including any challenges or nuances international applicants should be aware of.Student Life and Extracurricular Activities 🏫🎉:Learn about the vibrant student life at the University of Calgary. From various extracurricular activities and organizations to community engagement opportunities, Bailey paints a vivid picture of how students can make the most of their university experience outside the classroom.Additional Topics Covered:Standardized testing requirements for international applicants 🎓Financial aid and scholarship opportunities for international students 💰The importance of essays and personal statements in the application process ✍️Support services for international students to ensure academic and cultural success 📖Housing options available throughout the students’ academic journey 🏠Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of what the University of Calgary has to offer and get expert advice from Bailey Fawcett to help you and your family navigate the college admissions process successfully. 🎙️ University of Calgary - Future StudentsHow to apply: https://www.ucalgary.ca/future-students/undergraduate/applyAdmission Requirements - Students can use this link to find the Admission Requirements for any of our Undergraduate Degree Programs: https://discover.ucalgary.ca/manage/event/trip?id=31fa5166-370c-451a-ba19-5ab61f45b0c3Degree Guide - This link displays all of our Undergraduate Programs, and allows students to explore the differences between all of them:https://www.ucalgary.ca/student-services/degree-guideFinancial Aid - This link shares specific information on loans for students from the USA:https://www.ucalgary.ca/registrar/finances/financial-aidScholarships - This link shares more general information on scholarships, bursaries and grants available for UCalgary students:https://www.ucalgary.ca/registrar/finances/awards-------------------------------👉 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

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

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

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