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: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com And don’t forget to visit our website at www.collegeadmissionstalk.com So, are you ready? Let’s talk about it.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    284. Spelman College - Chelsea Holley - Director of Admissions

    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 exciting episode I had the great privilege of interviewing Chelsea Holley, Director of Admissions at Spelman College. As one of the most prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the country, Spelman is celebrated for empowering African American women through rigorous academics, a supportive campus culture, and a focus on leadership and community engagement. This conversation is not just for those interested in Spelman—it’s packed with valuable insights to help all families navigate the college admissions process. ✨🎓 🏆 Top 4 Takeaways from This Episode1️⃣ The Power of HBCUs in Transforming Lives Chelsea highlights Spelman’s mission to educate and empower African American women, fostering leadership, resilience, and excellence. With an alumni network that includes global leaders like Marian Wright Edelman, Stacey Abrams, and Rosalind Brewer, Spelman continues to shape trailblazers in every field. 🌟💼 2️⃣ Signature Academic Programs Spelman is renowned for programs in STEM, social sciences, and arts, with standout initiatives like the Women in STEM program and partnerships with institutions like Georgia Tech and Emory University. These collaborations provide Spelman students with unique dual-degree opportunities, expanding their career horizons. 🧬🔬 3️⃣ A Culture of Community and Support With a 91% retention rate, Spelman fosters a campus culture where students feel supported and connected. From peer mentoring to faculty engagement, Chelsea explains how the college builds a sense of sisterhood that keeps students thriving throughout their college journey. 🤝🌺 4️⃣ How to Make Your Application Shine Chelsea shares Spelman’s holistic admissions approach, offering advice on crafting compelling essays, impactful recommendation letters, and navigating the test-optional process. She also touches on the benefits of applying Early Decision or Early Action for students seeking to maximize their chances of admission and merit-based scholarships. 📝📈 🎓 Spelman College Fast FactsLocation: Atlanta, Georgia 🌆Founded: 1881, as the first historically Black college for women Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 studentsTop Programs: Biology, Economics, Psychology, and Political Science 📚💡Retention Rate: 91% (national average is around 66%) 📊Alumni Network: 20,000+ alumnae across the globe 🌍 ✨ Additional Insights from This EpisodeResources for students with IEPs and 504 plans ensure academic success through dedicated accommodations and services. ✅📖Chelsea shares trends in personal statements and tips to avoid clichés, emphasizing authenticity and a clear narrative. ✍️Spelman’s test-optional policy empowers students to decide whether their standardized test...

    41 min

  2. FEB 3

    283. USC - Kirk Brennan - Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Admission

    🎙️In this episode, we dive deep into the admissions process, academic offerings, and student resources at USC with Kirk Brennan, Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Admission. Whether you're a student, parent, or counselor, you’ll gain valuable insights to help you navigate the college admissions process. 🎓 🎯 Key Takeaways from This Episode: USC’s Unique Programs and Opportunities 🌍🎭📚 USC is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, offering unique programs that allow students to combine their passions. From the World Bachelor in Business to its celebrated School of Cinematic Arts, USC provides opportunities that stand out. Plus, being in the heart of Los Angeles connects students with internships, research opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene, enhancing the overall college experience. Crafting a Standout Application ✏️📜✅ Learn what USC looks for in a standout application. Kirk Brennan shares tips on how to showcase your authentic self through personal statements and supplemental essays. He also highlights the importance of course rigor over just GPA, explaining what USC values most when reviewing transcripts. Avoid common pitfalls and elevate your application to shine in a competitive pool. Test-Optional and Financial Aid Insights 💰📊🎓 Did you know USC is test-optional? Discover how many admitted students chose not to submit standardized test scores. Plus, Kirk discusses the variety of scholarships and financial aid options available and how students can position themselves for merit-based awards. 🏫 About USC: Located in Los Angeles, USC is home to a diverse student body and offers over 150 majors and minors. With strong alumni networks, cutting-edge facilities, and a commitment to fostering innovation, USC is a top choice for students worldwide. 🌴☀️ 📌 Additional Highlights: Resources available to help students transition and succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. 💡🤝An overview of application types (Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision) and how they can impact your chances of admission or merit aid. 📆✔️Kirk’s top three pieces of advice for students and families preparing for the college admissions process. 📝💡 USC Admissions 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

    51 min

  3. JAN 27

    282. SUNY Maritime - Alex El Helou - Associate Director of Admissions

    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 insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, we dive deep into what makes SUNY Maritime a standout institution for students interested in maritime and technical fields. 🚢I had the pleasure of speaking with Alex El Helou, Associate Director of Admissions at SUNY Maritime, who shared valuable insights into their unique programs, hands-on learning experiences, and tips for navigating the admissions process. Whether you're a prospective student, a parent, or a college counselor, this episode offers a wealth of information to guide your college research! 🔍✨ 🎓Here are 3 key takeaways you won’t want to miss: 🌊 Unique Academic Programs and Real-World Training SUNY Maritime offers specialized programs in fields like marine transportation, engineering, and international business, preparing students for careers in the maritime industry and beyond. The curriculum is heavily integrated with hands-on training and real-world experiences 🚢, including opportunities to work aboard the school’s training ship. These practical experiences set SUNY Maritime students apart in an industry that values hands-on expertise. 👨‍✈️ The Regiment of Cadets: A Unique Student Experience One of the most distinctive aspects of SUNY Maritime is its Regiment of Cadets. While participation is optional, Alex explains the day-to-day life of a cadet and how this structured program helps develop leadership, discipline, and teamwork skills 🛥️. It’s a key feature of SUNY Maritime’s approach to education, offering students a chance to grow in both academic and professional dimensions. 📑 Holistic Admissions and Test-Optional Policy SUNY Maritime takes a holistic approach to its application review process, looking beyond just numbers and test scores to understand each applicant’s story. Although the school is test-optional, Alex provides valuable insights into the percentage of accepted students who chose not to submit test scores. This discussion will help students feel more confident in their application strategies ✍️, especially for those considering going test-optional. 📢 Don’t forget to listen to the full episode for additional tips and advice from Alex, including his top three pieces of advice for students and parents navigating the college admissions process! 🌟 Maritime College Admissions

    24 min

  4. JAN 20

    281. Susquehanna University - Nickala Hagarty - Associate Director of Admission

    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 sit down with Nickala Hagarty, the Associate Director of Admission at Susquehanna University. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from campus updates and popular academic offerings to a breakdown of Susquehanna’s holistic review process and expert tips on how to make your application stand out. Whether you're a student considering Susquehanna University or simply navigating the college admissions process, this episode is packed with useful information for all families.Top 4 Takeaways:1️⃣ Holistic Admissions and Test-Optional Policies: Susquehanna University continues to follow a holistic review process, meaning they look at much more than just grades and test scores 📄. Susquehanna is truly test-optional and families can feel confident that applying without scores won’t hurt a student’s chances, as long as the rest of the application showcases strengths. 2️⃣ Academic and Extracurricular Excellence: Susquehanna University offers a wide range of popular academic programs, with business, creative writing, and health sciences among the top choices 📚. In terms of student life, the university boasts over 120 clubs and organizations, so students have endless ways to get involved on campus. Nickala also emphasized that leadership roles and involvement in extracurriculars are more important than ever in the admissions process, so students should make these experiences a priority in their applications. 3️⃣ Essay and Letters of Recommendation Tips: Personal statements remain a key part of a successful application. Nickala advised that authenticity is crucial when crafting a compelling essay ✍️. For letters of recommendation, she highlighted that impactful examples often come from teachers who truly know the student’s academic and personal growth, making them more meaningful. 4️⃣ Support for Students with IEPs and 504 Plans: Susquehanna University is dedicated to supporting students with individual needs. For those coming from high school with IEPs or 504 plans, the university offers a variety of accommodations and services to ensure continued support throughout their college experience 🧑‍🏫. Susquehanna University Fast Facts:Located in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, Susquehanna University is a liberal arts institution offering more than 100 majors and minors across a broad range of disciplines.Known for its GO Program 🌍, all students participate in off-campus learning experiences, which could be study abroad or service learning, fostering global awareness and intercultural competencies. The campus community is driven by close student-faculty relationships, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, ensuring personal attention and support. a...

    21 min

  5. JAN 13

    280. Notre Dame - Brendan Corsones - Associate Director of Admissions

    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 exciting episode I had the pleasure of interviewing Brendan Corsones, the Associate Director of Admissions at Notre Dame 🏫, one of the most prestigious universities in the U.S. 🇺🇸. Brendan shared invaluable insights about the admissions process at Notre Dame, including key facts about campus culture, student life, application tips, and what makes this university stand out from the rest. 🧑‍🎓✨ Here are the top 4 biggest takeaways from our conversation that will help families on their college admissions journey: 👇 1. Notre Dame’s High Retention Rate: A Sign of Strong Student Support 💪Did you know that Notre Dame boasts a notably high retention rate? 🎓 This means a large percentage of first-year students return for their sophomore year, which is a great indicator of how well the university supports students academically, socially, and emotionally. 🏫 Brendan explains that this is due to a strong sense of community, meaningful relationships with professors, and plenty of resources for student success. Key Takeaway: A high retention rate reflects a college’s commitment to helping students thrive! 🌟 2. The Holistic Admissions Process: What Notre Dame Values 🌍When applying to Notre Dame, it's essential to understand that their admissions process is holistic. 📝 They look at more than just grades and test scores; they want to learn about your character, passions, and unique experiences. 🔍 Brendan shares that Notre Dame values students who not only excel academically but who also demonstrate leadership, service, and a desire to make an impact in the world. 🌎 Key Takeaway: Focus on showcasing your full self—academic achievements, extracurriculars, and personal growth. 🌱 3. Test-Optional Policy: Should You Submit Test Scores? 📊With Notre Dame’s test-optional policy, students have the choice to submit standardized test scores or not. 📚 Brendan discusses how students should decide based on how well their test scores reflect their academic strengths and how they compare to their overall application. If your test scores are strong and complement your other materials, go ahead and submit them. If not, focus on your essays, transcript, and other strengths! 💥 Key Takeaway: You don't have to submit test scores if they don’t serve you—focus on the strengths that truly shine! 🌟 4. Supplemental Essays: Be Authentic and Tell Your Story ✍️Most universities, including Notre Dame, ask for supplemental essays as part of their application. ✨ These essays are your chance to show who you really are beyond your grades and test scores. Brendan encourages applicants to be authentic and share personal stories that align with the university’s values. It’s not about impressing them with what you think they want to hear—it’s about being real! 💬 Key...

    50 min

  6. JAN 6

    279. Manhattan University - Benjamin Boivin - Director of Undergraduate Admissions

    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 of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Benjamin Boivin, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Manhattan College. Benjamin shares exciting updates about the campus since our first interview in 2022, along with valuable tips for prospective students and their families as they prepare for the college admissions process. 🎧 Here are some of the key takeaways from our conversation: 1. Exciting New Developments on Campus 🏫✨ Since my last interview with Manhattan College in 2022, Benjamin highlights several new developments, from campus renovations to expanded academic offerings, that are enhancing the student experience. Tune in to hear what’s new and how these changes might impact future students! 2. Engineering & Business Opportunities 💼🔧 Manhattan College’s strong reputation in engineering and business is reinforced through unique partnerships, cutting-edge facilities, and internship opportunities. Benjamin provides insight into how students in these programs gain a competitive edge in their fields by accessing real-world experiences. 3. Holistic Application Review 🔍✏️ The admissions team at Manhattan College takes a holistic approach when reviewing applications, looking beyond just GPAs. Benjamin explains how they review transcripts in context and what qualities and experiences stand out during the review process. Learn how students can present their best selves in their applications! 4. Advice on Personal Statements & Essays 📝🎯 Crafting a compelling personal statement is crucial in the admissions process. Benjamin offers expert advice on how students can create an essay that resonates with the admissions committee. Plus, hear about examples that have stood out in the past! 💡 Bonus Tip: Manhattan College considers demonstrated interest in the admissions process. Benjamin shares how attending campus visits, virtual events, and engaging with the college can positively impact your application. Be sure to listen to the full episode for even more insights, including Benjamin’s top three pieces of advice for students and families navigating the college admissions process! 🚀 Manhattan University Admissions

    34 min

  7. 12/30/2024

    278. My Interview with Sam from The Financial Samurai Podcast

    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 The Financial Samurai Podcast Links: About The Financial Samurali Podcast The Financial Samurai Podcast www.financialsamurai.com Monica Romero Matthews - Scholarship Resources: Click Here for Monica's Scholarship Website Click Here for Monica's Facebook Group

    42 min

  8. 12/23/2024

    277. Stevens Institute of Technology - Carlos Cano - Director of Undergraduate Admissions

    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 🎙️ Inside Stevens Institute of Technology with Carlos Cano, Director of Undergraduate Admissions Welcome to another insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast! Today, I had the pleasure of interviewing Carlos Cano, the Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Stevens Institute of Technology. If you're considering a future in technology, business, or interdisciplinary fields, you won’t want to miss this episode! Stevens is renowned for its innovative academic programs, cutting-edge career development opportunities, and its commitment to preparing students for success. 🚀 Here are the top 4 takeaways from this episode: 1. 💡 Technology & Innovation at the CoreStevens Institute of Technology is technology-forward in everything they do. From academic programs in engineering, computer science, and beyond, to campus-wide initiatives, Stevens integrates technology into all aspects of the student experience. Whether you're studying AI, data science, or business, you’ll be immersed in an innovative environment that prepares you for the future of work. 2. 🔄 Interdisciplinary Learning OpportunitiesStevens encourages students to blend their technical skills with interests in areas like business, social sciences, or the arts. The university offers unique programs and minors, so you can customize your degree and graduate with a skill set that is both broad and deep, making you competitive in the job market. 🎨💻📊 3. 🎓 Co-op and Career Development: A Distinct AdvantageThe co-op and internship programs at Stevens are some of the most robust in the nation. Students get the chance to gain real-world experience at leading companies, giving them a distinct edge upon graduation. 💼 Carlos emphasized that these programs are designed to help students build their professional networks and career pathways, ensuring they are job-ready from day one. 🏆 4. 📄 Holistic Transcript ReviewCarlos shared that Stevens looks at each applicant’s transcript holistically, focusing not just on GPA but also on trends in academic performance and rigor of coursework. He explained that they do not recalculate the GPA but instead review the context of the student's academic journey. This allows them to understand the applicant’s growth and potential beyond the numbers. 📊 Bonus Insights: Stevens Institute of Technology is located in Hoboken, New Jersey, just minutes away from New York City. 🌆 This proximity gives students amazing opportunities for internships and networking with top companies.The school has a 97% job placement rate within six months of graduation, a...

    32 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: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com 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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