The College Admissions Process Podcast

🎙In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante is joined by Paola Franco, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Transfer Coordinator at Pomona College, to dive into what truly sets this elite liberal arts college apart — both academically and culturally. As a proud Pomona alumna, Paola offers a compelling inside view into the student experience, academic innovation, and collaborative environment that define Pomona. From 13-person average class sizes to a deeply residential culture (98% of students live on campus), Paola shares how Pomona’s mission comes to life every day inside and beyond the classroom. 💡 Key Topics Covered: holistic admissions reviewschool profileneurodiverse studentscommitment to affordabilitywithout loanstransfer studentsAI in the application process47 ✅ Top 3 Pieces of Advice for Students and Families: Stay organized: Save your passwords, take notes, and document your impressions from campus visits and webinars. Enjoy the transition: Whether you're heading to college for the first time or transferring, don’t let the process overshadow your final year — savor it. Keep an open mind: Be open to surprises, evolving preferences, and one another. Grace and curiosity go a long way. Pomona College 🙌 Fun Fact: Pomona’s quirky and beloved connection to the number 47 has become part of the campus culture. “Chirp chirp!” is more than just a cheer — it’s a nod to a community filled with personality and purpose. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here

🎓In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante welcomes back Jarvis Dieujuste, Admissions Advisor at Hunter College, for an insightful and energizing conversation on how one of the flagship schools of the CUNY system supports students from all backgrounds — before, during, and after the admissions process. Jarvis shares valuable updates about new programs at Hunter, unpacks the college’s holistic review process, and dives deep into how Hunter fosters a strong sense of community for commuters, while maintaining accessibility and affordability 🎓💰. ✅ Top 4 Takeaways for Students & Families: 🔍 Holistic Review With a Human Touch Hunter takes a comprehensive view of each student — beyond GPAs. Jarvis explains how factors like course rigor, essays, recommendation letters, and even optional interviews all contribute to a student’s story. 🎭 Commuter Life Can Still Be Campus Life With 100+ clubs (including a 🥪 Ham & Cheese Club! 😂), Hunter proves you don’t need dorms to build community. Jarvis, a Hunter alum himself, shares how he built meaningful relationships and became a club founder as a commuter. 💸 Affordability and Financial Aid Are Game Changers Programs like TAP, Excelsior, and FAFSA-based aid make Hunter one of the most affordable 4-year colleges in the country. Jarvis shares his own powerful story of finishing college debt-free after personal hardship. 🔁 Transfer Pathways Open Doors Students can start at other institutions and transfer to Hunter through dedicated support, personalized credit evaluation, and a new Transfer Center 🏫📤. There are always second chances in college admissions. 🎓 Why Hunter College? 📞 Resources Mentioned: Hunter AdmissionsFinancial AidMacaulay Honors College 📢 Whether you're a student, parent, or counselor, this episode offers real-world guidance and NYC-based inspiration. Give it a listen and share with anyone exploring the CUNY system or seeking a high-impact, low-cost college option. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here

🎙️ The College Admissions Process Podcast (The CAPP) Episode: Salve Regina University: Mission, Holistic Review & the Value of a Private Education Guest: Jim Fowler, VP for Enrollment Management, Salve Regina University Host: Dr. John Dante www.salve.edu 🌊 About This Episode In this episode, John speaks with Jim Fowler from Salve Regina University in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island. Jim shares what makes Salve stand out — from its mission-driven education and holistic review process to how students can find true academic, social, and financial fit. 🎓 Key Highlights ✨ Mission & Community: A Catholic university founded by the Sisters of Mercy, Salve welcomes all backgrounds, emphasizing mercy, justice, and compassion. 📘 The Salve Compass: Every student is guided by a team of advisors through a 4-year pathway connecting academics, co-curriculars, and career planning. 💬 Holistic Admissions: Academic rigor matters most, but essays, recommendations, and alignment with Salve’s mission can make a big difference. 🧭 Fit Over Perfection: Focus on growth and challenge, not just grades. Show your genuine interest and understanding of Salve’s values. 💰 Affordability & Value: Don’t be deterred by sticker price — financial aid often makes private education more affordable than families expect. 📈 ROI & Outcomes: Salve grads rank in the top 6% nationally for lifetime return on investment (Georgetown CEW data). 💡 Jim’s Advice for Students: 1️⃣ Know yourself and the environment where you’ll thrive. 2️⃣ Dive in and get involved — community matters. 3️⃣ Read, read, read — strong reading skills are key to success. Thank you for tuning in to The CAP! 🎧 To learn more about Salve Regina or access the study mentioned in this episode, check out: 👉 Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List

🎙️In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nick Galli, an Admissions Counselor at Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech), located in sunny Melbourne, Florida 🌴. Florida Tech is nationally recognized for its STEM-focused programs, commitment to hands-on learning, and required standardized testing admissions policy — a perspective not often heard today. Whether you’re aiming for engineering, aerospace, cybersecurity, or marine biology, this conversation is packed with information that can help students and families make more informed decisions. ⭐️ Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode: 📊 Florida Tech Requires SAT/ACT Scores Unlike many institutions that have moved to test-optional, Florida Tech still requires standardized test scores for all applicants. Nick breaks down how the scores are used alongside GPA and why they matter in the university's objective review process. This is crucial insight for students applying to schools that still emphasize testing. 📝 🚀 A Premier STEM Institution with Real-World Impact With top-tier programs in aerospace engineering, oceanography, computer science, and aviation, Florida Tech is a destination for students who want a hands-on, research-driven education. Students often get involved in research and internships starting in their first year. 🎓 Holistic Review, But With a Focus on Academic Strength While essays and letters of recommendation are optional, Florida Tech still looks at course rigor, grade trends, and school context. They also support international applicants and evaluate transcripts carefully across different grading systems. 💡 Support for Neurodiverse Students and a Tight-Knit Campus Community Florida Tech offers structured academic support for students with IEPs or 504 plans and promotes a close-knit, inclusive environment where small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship make a real difference. 🧠 🏫 Fast Facts About Florida Tech: 📍 Located in Melbourne, FL, minutes from the Atlantic coast 🌊 🎓 Around 3,000 undergraduate students 🔬 Offers over 50 STEM-focused majors, from mechanical engineering to forensic psychology 🛩 Home to one of the top aerospace and aviation programs in the country 💰 Ranked highly for return on investment among private universities 🎧 Why This Episode Matters: Whether you're a student drawn to STEM, a parent looking for transparency in admissions policies, or a counselor guiding students toward career-ready programs, this episode offers a refreshing and honest perspective. Nick Galli’s advice is straightforward, practical, and applicable to students of all backgrounds. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below: 🔗

🎙️ Episode: Wayne State University — Dr. Charles Cotton, Vice Provost for Strategic Enrollment Management In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, John Durante talks with Dr. Charles Cotton III about what makes Wayne State University unique: its urban location, research opportunities, student supports, career connections, and affordability. Wayne State is a top public research university and is classified as a Carnegie R1 (very high research activity). Wayne Today+1 3 key takeaways (what to focus on in your college research) 1) The city is the campus — Detroit = career advantage 🏙️➡️💼 Wayne State’s campus is embedded in Detroit — Dr. Cotton describes “porous walls” between campus and city where students live, learn, and play alongside Detroit. That translates into frequent in-person internship and partnership opportunities, strong local alumni connections, and a formal “college-to-career” emphasis that helps students convert classroom work into paid internships and real-world experience. Recent partnerships (for example, with Detroit City FC) make those opportunities concrete. Detroit City FC Why this matters for your research: if you want hands-on experience or regional industry connections, prioritize schools whose location and partner network line up with the career paths you care about. 2) Research access starts early — look for UROP & undergraduate pipelines 🔬 Dr. Cotton stresses that research at Wayne State begins before day one for many students through their Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) and related initiatives that connect admitted students with faculty, scholarships, and funded projects. These programs make it possible for undergraduates to join faculty research and find grant/scholarship support early. UROP+1 Why this matters for your research: if undergraduate research is important to you, ask reps how soon first-years can join research, what matching/support looks like, and whether there are paid research/mentored options. 3) Real supports + affordability — Student Success 2.0 & tuition pledges 📚💰 Wayne State has been investing in student success and centralized supports (Student Success 2.0 and the Student Success Hub in the undergraduate library) to make advising, success coaches, career services, and financial aid easier to find. They also offer major affordability programs (e.g., the Wayne State Guarantee and Heart of Detroit pledge) that cover tuition/fees for eligible students. Dr. Cotton highlights first-year seminars, living-learning communities, and centralized help as part of the transition experience. Wayne Today+1 Why this matters for your research: retention and success programs + clear tuition pledges change net cost and outcomes — ask for exact eligibility rules and how supports are delivered (in person, virtual, one-on-one coaching). Quick facts you can trust from the interview (and what to ask on a visit) ✍️

🎙️ Episode: Inside Admissions with Todd Rinehart, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment at the University of Denver Join me as I welcome back Todd Rinehart for an insightful conversation on major updates at the University of Denver (DU) and practical advice for students navigating the college application process. Todd reminds us that students control two-thirds of the admissions transaction — a powerful mindset shift for applicants everywhere. 💡 Highlights Include: 🏒 University Updates & the 4D Experience 10th National Hockey ChampionshipFour-Dimensional (4D) Student ExperienceStudy Abroad:Business, EngineeringGlobal Studies 🧠 Holistic Review: What DU Really Looks For great classmates and community membersEssays:who you areRigor in Context:Recommendations: 🎯 Test-Optional Policy & Financial Aid Tests Optional:Financial Aid:$40,000 Chancellor’s Award 📈 Enrollment, Waitlist & Smart Questions to Ask not rankedlong-term outcomes and value 💬 Todd’s Top 3 Pieces of Advice 1️⃣ Students Control: Where to apply — build a balanced list, not just ultra-selective schools. 2️⃣ Students Influence: Outcomes through coursework, effort, and essays. 3️⃣ Students Control: Where to enroll — the final choice is yours. 🎧 Tune in to learn how DU helps students live lives of purpose, leadership, and service, and gain insider advice straight from one of the nation’s most respected enrollment leaders. —---------------------------- 👉 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...

🎙️In this episode, host John Durante sits down with KirstyNicole Bocado, an Admissions Counselor at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), to uncover what makes this New Jersey-based university a powerful choice for students seeking a global, personalized, and transformational education. With campuses in Florham and Metropolitan NJ, plus an international campus at Wroxton College in England, FDU is a university that blends academic rigor with individualized support, and a commitment to preparing students to thrive in a culturally connected world. 🌐💬 From test-optional policies to experiential learning opportunities and support for neurodiverse students, this episode is a must-listen for any family navigating the college admissions process. 🎧 🎯 Top 5 Takeaways for Students & Families: 🌍 A Truly Global Education FDU’s international focus comes to life through global learning experiences, a diverse student body, and the opportunity to study abroad at their Wroxton College campus in England — all while enjoying the feel of a close-knit U.S. campus community. 🤝 Holistic Admissions That See the Whole Student FDU looks beyond test scores. Whether you’re submitting test-optional or not, the university values intellectual curiosity, cultural awareness, and the personal qualities that signal you'll thrive in their collaborative learning environment. 🔬 Hands-On Learning From Day One FDU offers experiential learning early and often — from internships and research to service projects. Students are encouraged to apply classroom learning in real-world settings, starting as early as their first semester. 💙 Inclusive Support for All Learners FDU provides comprehensive support for neurodiverse students, including those with IEPs or 504 plans. With a welcoming team and accessible resources, the university ensures every student is set up for success, both inside and outside the classroom. 💡 Guided Academic & Career Advising Students at FDU benefit from intentional, personalized advising to help them explore majors, prepare for graduate school, and navigate career opportunities. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all model — it’s mentoring that matters. 📌 Quick Facts About FDU: www.fdu.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 Applications If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below: 🔗

🎙️ Episode: From Long Island to the Ivy League – A Student-Athlete’s Journey at Columbia University In this special episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I had the honor of speaking with Katelyn, a sophomore at Columbia University 🦁 and a member of the women’s lacrosse team 🥍. Katelyn takes us inside her journey as both a student and an athlete, sharing her path from Syosset, NY to the Ivy League, and the lessons she learned along the way. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: ✨ Recruitment insights – how she navigated prospect camps, coach communication, and the September 1st timeline 📅. ✨ Sacrifices & rewards – what it really takes to balance summer training, missed social events, and the grind of being a Division I athlete 💪. ✨ Finding the right fit – why Columbia stood out not just athletically, but academically (hello, neuroscience + pre-med 🔬). ✨ Campus life revealed – how Columbia offers the best of both worlds: a serene campus 🌳 and the energy of New York City 🌆. ✨ Academic support for athletes – tutoring, wellness programs, and resources that set students up for success 📚. ✨ Biggest surprises – what she didn’t expect about balancing athletics and academics in college 🎓. ✨ Real talk advice – why you shouldn’t rush your commitment, how to block out comparison, and why being your authentic self matters most 🧭. 💡 Whether you’re a student-athlete (or a parent of one), or simply curious about the Ivy League experience, this episode is full of actionable advice and honest perspective from someone living it right now. 🎧 Tune in to hear Katelyn’s inspiring story and her guidance for students starting their own 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️In this insightful episode, Conner Stanfield, Assistant Director of Admission & Coordinator of Campus Visits at Grinnell College joins us to dive deep into the student experience at one of the most academically rigorous and intentionally student-centered liberal arts colleges in the country. 🏫 Whether you're just starting your college search or narrowing down highly selective schools, this conversation will benefit all students and families navigating the admissions process. ⭐️ Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode: 📚 The Power of the Individually Advised Curriculum: At Grinnell, there are no required general education courses. Instead, students work closely with advisors to design a personalized academic path that reflects their interests, goals, and intellectual curiosity. This level of academic freedom fosters creativity, independence, and a deep love of learning. 💡 💬 A Commitment to Critical Thinking and Open Dialogue: Grinnell's academic culture thrives on intellectual inquiry, diversity of thought, and respectful discourse. Students are encouraged to ask bold questions, challenge assumptions, and explore a range of perspectives inside and outside the classroom. 🎓 Holistic, Equitable Admissions with a Test-Optional Policy: Grinnell looks well beyond the numbers. They prioritize academic rigor, grade trends, and student context while ensuring equity in the process. Standardized test scores are optional, and the admissions team takes great care in evaluating each applicant’s unique story, potential, and fit for the Grinnell community. 🌍 💸 A No-Loan Financial Aid Policy That Makes Grinnell Accessible: Grinnell meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans, helping students graduate debt-free. The college is deeply committed to affordability and access — a rare but incredibly important policy in today’s higher ed landscape. 🏦 🏫 Quick Facts About Grinnell College: 📍 Located in Grinnell, Iowa, halfway between Des Moines and Iowa City 🎓 Enrolls approximately 1,700 students from all 50 states and over 60 countries 🌟 Ranked among the top national liberal arts colleges 🔬 Over 60% of students participate in undergraduate research or internships 📖 Home to more than 500 course offerings with individualized academic advising 🌍 Known for social responsibility, inclusivity, and global perspective —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus. Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀 💬 What We Cover in This Episode: ✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled 🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process 🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?) 🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more 🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices ⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together 🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus 🔁 What they wish they did differently 🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college 💡 What they wish they knew during the application process 📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey 🎁 Why This Episode Matters: This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌 If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️In this episode, Kurtis Kalagher, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions from Quinnipiac University joins us to pull back the curtain on what makes Quinnipiac a standout choice for students looking for a close-knit, opportunity-rich college experience. 🎓 From understanding how Quinnipiac reviews applications holistically to the range of academic and support services offered, this episode is packed with insights that will benefit all students and families navigating the college admissions journey. ⭐️ Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode: 🎯 Holistic Review with a Personal Touch: Quinnipiac looks beyond GPAs and test scores to find students who will thrive both academically and socially. The admissions team places a strong emphasis on rigor, growth over time, and the impact students have made in their communities. Whether you submit test scores or not, your story matters. 🌱 A Supportive, Student-Centered Campus Culture: With a student-faculty ratio of 11:1 and average class sizes of just 20, Quinnipiac fosters an environment where mentorship, advising, and belonging are core priorities. Students receive personalized academic advising and career prep — from their first year to graduation. 🧠 Exceptional Resources for Neurodiverse Students: Quinnipiac is known for its strong support systems, especially for students with learning differences. From application through graduation, dedicated services and staff work with students with IEPs and 504s to ensure they receive accommodations and thrive inside and outside the classroom. 💸 Transparent and Balanced Approach to Financial Aid: Quinnipiac offers a mix of merit scholarships and need-based aid, and they encourage families to understand the true net cost of attendance. The university provides clear tools and personalized financial guidance to support families at every stage of the process. --------------------------------------- 🏫 Quick Facts About Quinnipiac University: 📍 Located in Hamden, Connecticut, nestled between New York City and Boston 🎓 Offers 100+ academic programs across the liberal arts, business, health sciences, engineering, and communications 📈 97.4% of graduates employed or in grad school within six months 🏥 Known for strong career pathways in health sciences, law, nursing, and media 🌎 Active and inclusive campus with 140+ student-run organizations —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links

🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus. Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀 💬 What We Cover in This Episode: ✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled 🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process 🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?) 🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more 🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices ⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together 🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus 🔁 What they wish they did differently 🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college 💡 What they wish they knew during the application process 📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey 🎁 Why This Episode Matters: This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌 If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎓I had the privilege of speaking with two current students from Deep Springs College, an incredibly unique institution that blends rigorous academics with hands-on labor and self-governance. These students share their first-hand experiences of life at Deep Springs, providing invaluable insight into what makes this remote college in California so extraordinary. Here are the top highlights you don’t want to miss in this episode! 🌟 1. A Life-Changing Educational Model 🧑‍🎓💼 Deep Springs College offers a truly one-of-a-kind educational experience, combining a robust liberal arts curriculum with hands-on work in farming, ranching, and self-governance. With approximately 26 students on campus at any given time, this close-knit community creates a personalized educational environment unlike any other. The students shared how the intense academic challenge is complemented by the hard work they do on the ranch 🐄🌱 and how this unique blend has shaped their educational journey. 2. Labor + Self-Governance = Transformation 💪🏽🚜 The students discussed how labor is an integral part of their experience at Deep Springs. From working on the college’s ranch to helping with kitchen duties 🍳 and maintaining the farm 🌾, they emphasized how this hands-on work is more than just chores—it’s part of their education. What sets Deep Springs apart is the emphasis on self-governance: students play a direct role in decision-making for the college, ensuring that they develop leadership skills while learning how to run a community. 🗳️🤝 3. Accessibility Through Full Scholarships 💰🎓 One of the most compelling aspects of Deep Springs College is its commitment to accessibility. As the students shared, the college offers a fully funded education—there’s no tuition, and all students receive scholarships that cover everything, from tuition and room/board to travel costs 🌍. Deep Springs operates on a need-blind admission policy, ensuring that financial barriers don’t prevent talented students from attending. 💸✨ Episode Highlights: full scholarships This episode is perfect for anyone curious about nontraditional colleges that prioritize community, personal growth, and real-world experiences. If you're seeking a college where every student is highly involved in shaping their environment and educational journey, Deep Springs College is an institution to consider. Deep Springs 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 Applications If 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 🔗

🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus. Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀 💬 What We Cover in This Episode: ✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled 🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process 🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?) 🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more 🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices ⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together 🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus 🔁 What they wish they did differently 🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college 💡 What they wish they knew during the application process 📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey 🎁 Why This Episode Matters: This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌 If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast (The CAPP), host John Durante welcomes Rebecca Simons, Director of Admission at Wellesley College, to unpack the application process and what makes a Wellesley education truly transformative. Whether you're wondering how test-optional policies are handled, what really matters in the essay, or how financial aid works at one of the nation’s top liberal arts colleges, this conversation is a must-listen for any student considering a women’s college—or any college, really. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: Wellesley’s holistic approachessay resonatecourse rigortest-optional philosophyneed-based aidinstitutional prioritieswomen’s college experienceMyIntuition 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Wellesley College AdmissionsMyIntuition Net Price Calculator 👂 Why Listen: This episode goes beyond application mechanics and into what really matters: finding the right fit and making empowered choices. If you're even considering applying to a selective liberal arts college, Rebecca's advice will ground and guide you. 🔁 Follow + Share: Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen! And don’t forget to share with a student or family navigating the college process. 🎓✨ Other Related Links from Rebecca: https://www.wellesley.edu/admission-aid/connect-with-wellesley https://www.wellesley.edu/admission-aid/apply https://www.wellesley.edu/w100 https://careereducation.wellesley.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 Applications If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links...

🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus. Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀 💬 What We Cover in This Episode: ✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled 🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process 🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?) 🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more 🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices ⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together 🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus 🔁 What they wish they did differently 🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college 💡 What they wish they knew during the application process 📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey 🎁 Why This Episode Matters: This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌 If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️ I had the great honor of welcoming back Jeff Selingo, New York Times bestselling author, journalist, and higher ed thought leader, for a follow-up conversation on the ever-changing world of college admissions. Jeff’s newest book, Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You, challenges families to think differently about what makes a college a “good fit.” Here’s what we covered in this insightful episode ⬇️ ✨ Key Topics Discussed Application InflationTest-Optional PoliciesneedYield ManagementFull-Pay FamiliesInstitutional PrioritiesReturn on InvestmentCollege ScorecardHidden GemsAdvice for JuniorsbeforeAdvice for Seniors 🌟 Jeff reminds us: finding a “dream school” is about fit, belonging, and opportunity — not just rankings or name recognition. 📚 Learn more about Jeff and his work: jeffselingo.com https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/ —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus. Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀 💬 What We Cover in This Episode: ✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled 🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process 🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?) 🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more 🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices ⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together 🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus 🔁 What they wish they did differently 🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college 💡 What they wish they knew during the application process 📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey 🎁 Why This Episode Matters: This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌 If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Cara Franke, Executive Director of Strategic Recruitment at the University of Kentucky (UK). Cara offers invaluable insights into UK’s holistic admissions process, the student experience at a large public university, and how applicants — especially out-of-state students — can stand out. Whether you're considering UK or just want to better understand how flagship public institutions make admissions decisions, this episode is a must-listen for students, parents, and counselors alike. 🔑 Top 4 Takeaways: 🎯 Holistic Admissions with Purpose UK uses a comprehensive, student-centered review process. GPA, curriculum rigor, essays, and involvement all matter — and for test-optional applicants, there's ample opportunity to shine through storytelling and substance. 🏫 Big School, Small Feel Despite having over 30,000 students, UK places a strong focus on community, connection, and individualized support, especially in a student’s first year through programs like Living Learning Communities and First-Year Experience initiatives. 💵 Affordability + Aid UK offers robust merit-based scholarships — some awarded automatically — and generous financial aid opportunities. Students and families are encouraged to explore the Scholarship Universe platform 💸 and not overlook stackable awards. 💬 Stand Out by Being Genuine Cara shares what makes personal statements memorable — authenticity and reflection over perfection. Letters of recommendation also matter most when they speak to a student’s character and growth. ✅ 📘 Fast Facts About the University of Kentucky: Location:Enrollment:Top-tier Research:School Spirit:Over 200 academic programs 🧭 Offers exploratory studies for undecided students and strong academic advising to help students discover their path. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links

🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus. Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀 💬 What We Cover in This Episode: ✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled 🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process 🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?) 🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more 🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices ⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together 🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus 🔁 What they wish they did differently 🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college 💡 What they wish they knew during the application process 📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey 🎁 Why This Episode Matters: This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌 If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for. —---------------------------- 👉 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 Applications If 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 Here Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List www.collegeadmissionstalk.com