Don't Force It: How to Get into College without Losing Yourself in the Process

Sheila Akbar, PhD
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  • HOW TO
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

For all the stressed-out parents trying to help their teenagers navigate the complicated world of college admissions. Each episode offers insightful and in-depth conversations with admissions experts and professional educators with practical advice for getting through the process without losing sight of yourself, your kid, or your sanity. From building a strong academic and extracurricular profile, developing the college list, managing standardized tests, to crafting the perfect essay, we've got you covered. Whether you're a seasoned high school parent or a first-timer, join us for candid conversations and expert guidance on making it to, through, and beyond college.

  1. Protect Their College Options: What Rising Juniors Must Do Around Testing This Summer

    JUL 3

    Protect Their College Options: What Rising Juniors Must Do Around Testing This Summer

    In today’s episode, I’m sharing a recent webinar I had with testing expert Akil Bello on how rising juniors can approach standardized testing strategically. We walk through the steps families can take this summer to avoid stress later and keep more college options open. Whether you’re considering test-optional or full prep, this session will help you make a smart, informed decision. Tune in! Akil's bio:  Akil Bello is an educator, speaker, entrepreneur, and testing expert. Akil has worked at every level of the supplemental education industry, advising universities, launching multiple companies, developing dozens of admissions and test preparation programs, training hundreds of instructors, and helping thousands of students achieve success. Akil Bello is an admissions testing expert with no psychometric training, a nationally recognized college admissions policy wonk with no advanced degree, and an entrepreneur of the week and 40 under 40 award winner who never attended business school.  Akil started his career as a proctor but eventually left to launch Bell Curves, a test preparation company where he worked extensively to improve outcomes for low-income and under-represented students. After successfully selling Bell Curves, Akil worked at a leading test preparation company from 2014 to 2018, serving as the Director of Equity and Access, where his focus was on helping public schools, non-profit organizations, and community based organizations understand standardized tests and develop affordable solutions for their students. Since leaving test preparation, Akil has consulted on educational policy and access with universities, political candidates, and even participated in two documentary films, one of which is available on Amazon Prime for a mere $4.99.  Akil recently served as Senior Director of Advocacy and Advancement at FairTest, where he works to build resources and tools to ensure that large scale assessment and evaluation tools are used responsibly and transparently. Currently, he is the Director of College Access and FAFSA Advising at SUNY.  Akil attended the most illustrious HBCU, Atlanta A&T University, and currently resides in New York City with his beautiful wife, two amazing sons, and his internet daughter Enid-Michelle.  Follow Akil at https://www.linkedin.com/in/akil-bello/ Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    53 min
  2. Standout College Essay Secrets: What Parents Must Know by June of Junior Year

    JUN 18

    Standout College Essay Secrets: What Parents Must Know by June of Junior Year

    In today’s episode, I’m joined by Holly Schreiber, Joanna Graham, and Andy Friedman for a deep dive into what really makes a college essay stand out. We share why students should start early—way before senior year kicks in—and how the best personal statements reveal something real, not rehearsed. From creative brainstorming techniques to honest talk about why AI won’t cut it, we cover what works (and what doesn’t). If you want the inside scoop on writing essays that actually matter, don’t miss this one! Register to attend or receive the recording of our upcoming webinar, Protect Their College Options: What Sophomores Must Do Around Testing This Summer: https://signeteducation.com/events Sign up to join our live coaching session and receive personalized insights! Students: https://forms.gle/cRyBSFP9tSEJnsVN6Parents and other Adults: https://forms.gle/v6Nppxix6HPKrRfdAAccess free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    57 min
  3. Elizabeth Hamblet: Seven Steps to College Success

    JUN 5

    Elizabeth Hamblet: Seven Steps to College Success

    In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Elizabeth Hamblet, a leading expert in college disability services, about what families often don’t realize when it comes to accommodations in college. We unpack how support systems shift after high school, which accommodations students can and can’t expect, and how to help your student build the self-advocacy and independence they’ll need to thrive. Whether your student has a 504 plan, an IEP, or simply needs extra support, this episode is full of practical guidance and honest insight you won’t want to miss. Bio Elizabeth C. Hamblet has worked as a learning disabilities specialist in college disability services offices for more than two decades. In addition to working at a university, she is a nationally-requested speaker on preparing students with disabilities for successful college transition. Hamblet is the author of Seven Steps to College Success: A Pathway for Students with Disabilities  (Rowman & Littlefield, 2023) and a concise guide on transition, and her work has appeared in numerous journals and online platforms. She offers advice and information on her website at www.LDadvisory.com and shares resources on numerous social media platforms.  Follow Elizabeth for more expert advice and resources on supporting students with disabilities in the college transition process: Instagram – @ld_advisory Facebook – Elizabeth C. Hamblet, LD Advisory LinkedIn – Elizabeth C. Hamblet Threads – @ld_advisory Bluesky – @echamblet.bsky.social Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    39 min
  4. Alison Slater on College Interviews

    MAY 22

    Alison Slater on College Interviews

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Alison Slater to explore the evolving role of college interviews. Alison shares practical advice for students on how to prepare—from researching schools to refining key talking points—and explains why strong interview skills are becoming even more critical as AI reshapes the admissions process. Whether you're a student or a parent, this is a must-listen conversation about how to stand out in a rapidly changing landscape. Bio Alison attended college far enough from home that her family wouldn’t visit without calling first, but close enough to pop home for a weekend, if she wanted to. She believes in the liberal arts and chose a major she loved, not knowing where it would take her after college. She worked in selective college admissions for fifteen years and consulted one-on-one with students writing college essays and preparing for admissions interviews. She loves working with teenagers. Interviews are her favorite part of the college application because you can learn so much about someone in an interview, but they can also be a missed opportunity when students arrive nervous or unprepared.   Everyone interviews eventually—whether for college or grad school, scholarships, internships, or jobs. Through mock interviews and guided self-reflection, at Interview Prep, Alison helps students learn how to prepare in advance, interview with confidence, and leave a lasting impression each time. A memorable interview is a game-changer in standing out from the crowd, and interviewers can become advocates when selecting candidates for admission, awards, or jobs.  Outside of work, Alison loves crosswords, board games, novels, trying new recipes, and the Oxford comma.  Visit InterviewPrepLLC.com to learn more about their expert coaching for interviews, communication, and professional presence. Use code SIGNET2025 at checkout to receive 10% off all services booked by July 1, 2025. Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    32 min
  5. The Insider’s Guide to College Visits: What Parents Must Know

    MAY 8

    The Insider’s Guide to College Visits: What Parents Must Know

    In today’s episode, college admissions expert Holly Schreiber and I discuss how to transform college visits into strategic tools. We break down the three key types of visits—Fit Finder, Test Drive, and Gut Check—and how they help students not only clarify their preferences but also stand out to schools. Tune in for expert advice on making the most of college visits and keeping your student engaged in the process! Bio Holly has tutored for over a decade and specializes in undergraduate and graduate admissions and is also an expert coach and test prep tutor. She received her BA in Russian from Bowdoin College and her PhD in Comparative Literature and American Studies from Indiana University. She has worked as a tenure track professor at the University of Maine, serving as a MA/PhD advisor and on the graduate admissions committee. Before and during her time with Signet, she has helped over 100 students navigate application essays, program selection, and testing. She loves acting and comedy. Her familiarity with executive function support, standardized testing, writing, and admissions makes her a great holistic advisor to both parents and students alike. She is funny, patient, and meticulously organized. Access the recording of the full webinar and resources by visiting www.signeteducation.com/events Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    40 min
  6. Surviving High School with a Teenage Son

    APR 24

    Surviving High School with a Teenage Son

    Raising a teenage son comes with its challenges—shifting moods, boundary-pushing, and the constant pull of screens. So how do you guide them through high school while keeping your relationship strong? In this episode, I sit down with a panel of experts to tackle the biggest parenting struggles, from getting them to open up to setting rules that actually work. Tune in for practical strategies to navigate these years with more confidence and less frustration. WHO’S ON THE PANEL? Sheila Akbar, President & CEO, Signet Education Your host, and Signet’s resident admissions and test-prep expert, Sheila has worked with hundreds of students and parents through learning challenges. Emmaline C, Executive Function Specialist Emmaline has a Master’s in Child Development from the Harvard School of Education and has helped hundreds of our clients effectively talk to their kids about accepting help. Blair M, Academic Skills Coach and School Director As one of our top coaches and the Director of an excellent private school in Ohio, Blair brings years of experience from both sides of the equation. Andrew F, Academic Skills Coach One of our most popular academic coaches with teenage boys. After a call with Andy, kids go from skeptical to sold that a better way is possible for them. Elaine Taylor-Klaus & Diane Dempster, Parenting Experts Elaine and Diane are Co-Founders of Impact Parents, and bring to the table vast experience working with parents of neurodiverse children and teens. Access resources here: https://signeteducation.com/events/ Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    46 min
  7. All the Questions about Extracurriculars

    APR 10

    All the Questions about Extracurriculars

    How many extracurriculars are enough? Does my teen need to be a star athlete or a club president to stand out? What do colleges actually care about? In today’s webinar, Emmaline and I tackle these burning questions and more. We break down how to choose the right activities, what truly matters in the college admissions process, and how to help your teen find a balance that works. If you’ve ever wondered whether your student is doing too much (or too little), this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence you need. The Insider’s Guide to College Visits: What Parents Must Know Learn how to turn every campus visit into a strategic step toward admissions success. This free masterclass will show you how to make each visit count. Click here to get the replay: https://signeteducation.com/events/ Access free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    31 min
  8. More Testing Changes?! Decoding What Colleges Want in 2025

    MAR 27

    More Testing Changes?! Decoding What Colleges Want in 2025

    In today’s episode, I’m sharing a replay of a recent webinar on test prep. I break down key updates to the SAT and ACT, including the ACT’s shift to digital and its new optional science section coming in April 2025. I also discuss test-optional policies, when to start prepping, and how to use the Common Data Set to make informed decisions. Plus, I share tips on managing stress throughout the process. Don’t miss this essential guide to navigating college admissions testing! Sign up for a chance to be featured on our podcast and get personalized insights! Students: https://forms.gle/cRyBSFP9tSEJnsVN6Parents and other Adults: https://forms.gle/v6Nppxix6HPKrRfdAAccess ACT and SAT diagnostic tests here:  ACT Practice Test - https://www.act.org/content/act/en/students-and-parents/high-school-success/testing-advice-for-the-act/free-act-practice-test.htmlSAT Practice Test - https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/practice/practice-tests/bluebookAccess free resources and learn more about Sheila and her team at Signet Education at signeteducation.com or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaakbar/.

    43 min
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About

For all the stressed-out parents trying to help their teenagers navigate the complicated world of college admissions. Each episode offers insightful and in-depth conversations with admissions experts and professional educators with practical advice for getting through the process without losing sight of yourself, your kid, or your sanity. From building a strong academic and extracurricular profile, developing the college list, managing standardized tests, to crafting the perfect essay, we've got you covered. Whether you're a seasoned high school parent or a first-timer, join us for candid conversations and expert guidance on making it to, through, and beyond college.

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