The College Admissions Process Podcast

John Durante
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The College Admissions Process Podcast

Welcome to "The College Admissions Process Podcast," your ultimate resource for navigating the journey to higher education while receiving application tips and other college advice. I am your host, John Durante, and I am here to introduce you to college admissions representatives, and other professionals in the field of college admissions. Our purpose is to serve you the students and parents, so that you may gain insight straight from the people who ultimately make the decisions. Regardless of whether you will apply to a particular school being highlighted in a given podcast episode, you should listen to all of them, as each guest will give you tremendous insight and advice on every aspect of the college admissions process. Lastly, if you have any questions you’d like me to cover on future episodes, or any comments you’d like to share, please email me at: [email protected] And don’t forget to visit our website at www.collegeadmissionstalk.com So, are you ready? Let’s talk about it.

  1. 3D AGO

    297. MIT - David duKor-Jackson - Director of Admissions

    🎙️Join me in this episode with David duKor-Jackson who is the Director of Admissions at MIT. We’re diving into essential topics like how to find the right fit in your college search and what you can expect from MIT’s holistic review process. Let’s get into it! 🌟Key Highlights: Cross-Disciplinary Spirit at MIT: David shares how the collaborative and interdisciplinary culture at MIT encourages students to merge different fields to innovate and solve real-world problems. It’s all about that cross-disciplinary spirit! 🔬✨ The Holistic Review Process: David walks us through MIT's meritocratic admissions process. Here are the key areas they focus on: Academic Preparedness: They start with your transcripts, examining the rigor of the courses you’ve taken. 📚Essays and Recommendations: These components are your chance to provide meaningful insights about who you are. ✍️Extracurricular Activities: Your involvement and leadership outside the classroom matter greatly. 🎭⚽ Advice for Students: David emphasizes the importance of finding an institution that aligns with your personal and academic goals instead of just chasing prestige. 🎓He encourages you to reflect on who you are now and who you want to become. This self-awareness is crucial in selecting the right college for you. 🤔Use your application to showcase your authentic self. Don’t try to fit into a mold—just be genuine and true to who you are. 🙌 Empowering Student Agency: David makes a powerful point about trusting students in their decision-making process. Sometimes, they just know when a college isn’t the right fit, even before they step out of the car! 🚗💨 Final Thoughts: One key takeaway from our conversation is David’s mantra: “Focus on fit, not prestige.” With over 4,000 colleges in the U.S. alone, finding the place that will truly support your growth and aspirations is essential. 🌍 MIT website MIT Admissions MIT Student Financial Services David duKor-Jackson’s published blogs The specific blog that David mentioned —---------------------------- 👉 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...

    51 min

  2. MAY 5

    296. NC State University - Jon Westover - Associate Vice Provost & Director of Admissions

    🎙️ In this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Jon Westover, Associate Vice Provost & Director of Admissions at NC State University 🌟. This engaging conversation dives into what makes NC State unique, its admissions process, and invaluable advice for families navigating the college application journey. Whether you're considering NC State or looking for insights into the admissions process, this episode is packed with essential takeaways for students and parents alike! 🔑 Top 4 Takeaways from Our Conversation1️⃣ Exceptional Academic Programs and Interdisciplinary Learning Opportunities NC State stands out for its innovative academic offerings like engineering, life sciences, textiles, and design 🛠️🌿🎨.The university encourages students to blend fields of study, fostering innovation through programs like interdisciplinary research projects and dual majors 📚✨.Who thrives here? Students with a curious mindset and a desire to solve real-world problems in a collaborative environment. 2️⃣ Financial Aid and Opportunities for All Students In-state and out-of-state tuition structures differ, but NC State offers competitive scholarships to make education accessible for out-of-state students 💵🌍.Scholarships include merit-based awards and unique opportunities for students in specialized fields 🏆.NC State is dedicated to providing financial resources to students, ensuring accessibility for all backgrounds. 3️⃣ A 94% Retention Rate: Support for Student Success NC State boasts a 94% freshman retention rate 🎉, showcasing its strong commitment to helping students thrive.Transition programs, mentorship opportunities, and extensive academic and personal support services are available to ensure students feel connected and supported 🎓❤️.The university values student well-being and provides resources tailored to diverse learning and personal needs. 4️⃣ Insights into the Holistic Admissions Process NC State takes a holistic approach to admissions, valuing academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and personal stories ✍️📄.The admissions team looks beyond GPA, reviewing transcripts for academic trends and rigor while recalculating GPAs to align with their standards.Engaging essays and personal statements are a chance for applicants to stand out. Jon shares what NC State looks for and offers tips to craft a compelling narrative ✨🖋️. 📍 About NC State UniversityLocation: Raleigh, North Carolina 🌳🏙️.Enrollment: Over 37,000 students, with representation from all 100 counties in North Carolina, all 50 states, and 120+ countries 🌎.Rankings: Ranked among the Top 10 Public Universities for ROI (Return on Investment) by Payscale 💼.Innovation: A leader in research, home to the Centennial Campus, which fosters partnerships with industry leaders like Red Hat and SAS 🧑‍💻🤝. School Spirit: The NC State Wolfpack is legendary for its athletics and campus traditions 🐺❤️🤍. NC State 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...

    42 min

  3. APR 28

    295. University of Massachusetts Amherst - Keira Vollandt - Regional Assistant Director of First-Year Admissions

    🎙️In this exciting episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Keira Vollandt, Regional Assistant Director of First-Year Admissions at UMass Amherst 🎓. We covered everything from academic opportunities and application strategies to financial aid and student life. Whether you're applying to UMass or any other school, this conversation is packed with insights to help students and parents navigate the admissions process. 🔥 Top Takeaways from This Episode 1️⃣ UMass Amherst is More Than Just a School—It’s a Community 🌎 As the flagship public research university of Massachusetts, UMass Amherst offers over 100 majors and a vibrant campus culture rooted in academic excellence, diversity, and public service. The school is part of the Five College Consortium, which allows students to take courses at Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke, and Smith College—expanding both academic and social opportunities! 📚🤝 2️⃣ The Application Process: Holistic, But Strategic 📝 UMass Amherst employs a holistic review process, balancing academic performance, extracurriculars, and personal qualities. Early Action vs. Regular Decision? Applying Early Action can give you an advantage in terms of admissions and merit-based scholarships 💰, especially for out-of-state students! UMass considers GPA and course rigor carefully—not all GPAs are created equal! Taking AP, IB, or honors courses can strengthen your application. 3️⃣ Accessibility & Support for Students with Disabilities ♿ UMass Amherst is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible campus for students of all abilities. The Disability Services Office offers academic accommodations, assistive technology, and support for students who need additional resources. Campus buildings, transportation, and housing are designed to be accessible, ensuring that all students can fully participate in academics and student life. 4️⃣ Student Success & Support Systems ❤️ College can be a big transition, and UMass Amherst offers academic advising, mental health support, and career services to ensure students thrive. Living-learning communities, strong faculty relationships, and over 300 student organizations help students feel connected and supported throughout their college experience. 🎓 Fun Facts About UMass Amherst ✅ Ranked among the Top 30 Public Universities in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report) 🏆 ✅ Home to the #1 Campus Dining in the country—get ready for some delicious food! 🍕🍜 ✅ Located in the scenic Pioneer Valley, offering access to both urban and outdoor adventures 🌿🏙️ UMass Amherst - 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 🔗 Get the eBook Here a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/17smCKRwNBUuTRXZxxT4J3FJpfjie7TXeLreLBxrI-ZI/edit"...

    40 min

  4. APR 21

    294. Swarthmore College - Jim Bock - Vice President and Dean of Admissions

    🎙️In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Jim Bock, Vice President and Dean of Admissions at Swarthmore College. Swarthmore is one of the nation’s most prestigious liberal arts colleges, known for its intellectual rigor, close-knit community, and collaborative spirit. This conversation is a must-listen for students and parents navigating the college admissions process! 🔥 Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode:1️⃣ Swarthmore’s Unique Culture & Academic Excellence 🏫🎓Swarthmore offers a challenging yet supportive environment where students are encouraged to think critically, embrace collaboration, and engage deeply in their learning. With a student-faculty ratio of 8:1, students have direct access to world-class professors and research opportunities. Swarthmore also blends STEM and the liberal arts, ensuring that students graduate with a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for diverse careers. 2️⃣ The Power of the Tri-College Consortium 🤝📖Swarthmore students can take courses and participate in activities at Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges, giving them access to a wider range of courses, professors, and extracurricular opportunities while maintaining the benefits of a small college environment. This academic and social collaboration helps students build a broader network and gain interdisciplinary perspectives. 3️⃣ Application Insights & Holistic Admissions 📝✅Swarthmore reviews applications holistically, looking beyond just grades and test scores to understand the full student. Some key insights: ✔ Test-Optional Policy – Students who don’t submit standardized test scores are still given full consideration. Admissions evaluates academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and essays closely. ✔ Supplemental Essays Matter – Thoughtful, authentic responses that showcase a student’s unique perspective and experiences can make a big difference. ✔ GPA & Academic Rigor – Admissions looks at the context of each student’s high school curriculum, giving weight to AP, IB, and honors courses. 4️⃣ Strong Student Support & Impressive Retention Rate 🎯💡Swarthmore boasts a 96% retention rate, one of the highest in the country! This speaks to the incredible support systems available, including: ✔ Academic advising and faculty mentorship 👩‍🏫 ✔ Mental health and wellness resources 🧘‍♂️ ✔ Career development programs and internships 💼 ✔ Tight-knit residential community that fosters strong friendships 🏡 📌 Quick Facts About Swarthmore College:🏆 Ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the U.S. 📍 Located in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania—just 11 miles from Philadelphia! 🔬 Strong STEM programs within a liberal arts framework 🌱 Deep commitment to sustainability and social responsibility 💰 Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students Swarthmore College Admissions & Aid —---------------------------- 👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on...

    53 min

  5. APR 14

    293. Iona University - Amber Caputo - Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions

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

    37 min

  6. APR 7

    292. Mastering Test Prep & Scholarships with Dr. Shaan Patel from Prep Expert

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

    30 min

  7. MAR 31

    291. University of San Diego - Stephen Pultz - Assistant VP for Enrollment

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

    45 min

  8. MAR 24

    290. How to Win College Scholarships with Monica Matthews

    🎙️ 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/ScholarshipHelpCollegeTalk Monica’s Facebook page that is open to all:  https://www.facebook.com/How.To.Win.College.Scholarships Monica’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 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

    20 min
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About

Welcome to "The College Admissions Process Podcast," your ultimate resource for navigating the journey to higher education while receiving application tips and other college advice. I am your host, John Durante, and I am here to introduce you to college admissions representatives, and other professionals in the field of college admissions. Our purpose is to serve you the students and parents, so that you may gain insight straight from the people who ultimately make the decisions. Regardless of whether you will apply to a particular school being highlighted in a given podcast episode, you should listen to all of them, as each guest will give you tremendous insight and advice on every aspect of the college admissions process. Lastly, if you have any questions you’d like me to cover on future episodes, or any comments you’d like to share, please email me at: [email protected] And don’t forget to visit our website at www.collegeadmissionstalk.com So, are you ready? Let’s talk about it.

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