The College Admissions Process Podcast

John Durante
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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. 6D AGO

    348. Marist University - Kelli Nienstedt — Assistant Director of Student Activities

    🎙️In this return visit to the podcast, Kelli Nienstedt — formerly in the admissions office and now Assistant Director of Student Activities — brings a unique dual perspective on what makes the Marist University experience stand out 🦊. Whether you’re applying to college, supporting your student, or guiding others through the process, this episode is filled with helpful insights, student support strategies, and admissions tips you won’t want to miss. 🔑 Top 3 Takeaways for Students & Families:1. 🎯 What Makes a Strong Marist ApplicantKelli shares what stood out during her time on the admissions committee: ✅ Academic rigor within reason (don’t overload on APs if it hurts your performance) ✅ Authentic involvement in extracurriculars and leadership ✅ A clear sense of fit with Marist’s values and campus culture 2. 🧠 Support for Neurodiverse Students and Those with IEPs/504 PlansMarist offers two major support options: The Office of Accommodations and Accessibility, providing extended time on tests, alternative testing locations, and note-taking support — all included with tuition.The Learning Support Program, which offers weekly sessions with a learning specialist for a separate fee. Plus, academic support includes: 📚 Writing & Tutoring Centers 🗓️ One-on-one advising 💼 Internship coordinators by major 3. 🌍 A Truly Global (and Fun!) Campus ExperienceMarist’s campus in Florence, Italy 🇮🇹 is the most popular study abroad destination — but students also explore Ireland, London, and Asia through the ASAP program. And when they’re not studying abroad, students enjoy: 🎭 Broadway trips, 🏟️ Yankees and NFL games, 🎬 movie nights, 🐐 goat yoga, casino nights, and more — thanks to 120+ student clubs and the Student Activities Office. 💬 Bonus Highlights:Marist recentlytransitioned from college to university in 2025 — a major milestoneThe Focus Program supports undecided students with exploratory coursework and alumni interviewsPractical advice on navigating test-optional admissions and making the right submission decision Kelli’s Top 3 Tips for Students & Families: Visit campuses and picture yourself there 👀Explore life beyond academics 🎨Enjoy the process — it can be fun! 🎉 📍 About Marist University Located along the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, NY 🌉, Marist offers a strong liberal arts foundation paired with professional preparation across disciplines — all in a welcoming, tight-knit community with global reach. 🔗 CLICK HERE to learn more about Marist University Marist Student Involvement a href="https://www.marist.edu/study-abroad" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    18 min

  2. DEC 15

    347. QuestBridge National College Match - Taylor Erickson - QuestBridge Scholar & Admissions Counselor at the University of Notre Dame

    QuestBridge Home Page QuestBridge National College Match QuestBridge Resource Library Feel free to reach out to Taylor with any questions at: taylor.admissions@nd.edu Notre Dame Admissions Home Page🎙️QuestBridge National College Match with Taylor Erickson (Notre Dame Admissions)In this episode, Dr. John Dante speaks with Taylor Erickson, a QuestBridge Scholar alumna and admissions counselor at the University of Notre Dame, about navigating the QuestBridge National College Match. Taylor shares her personal journey from applying as a high-achieving, low-income student to working in admissions, offering practical insights for students, families, and counselors. Learn how to stand out in applications, craft authentic essays, secure strong recommendations, and stay organized through this competitive process. 🔑 Key TakeawaysUnderstanding QuestBridge 🌟 Connects high-achieving, low-income students with early admission and full four-year scholarships at top U.S. colleges.💰 Scholarships cover tuition, housing, meals, and more — valued at over $325,000.🏫 Students rank colleges for the Match, but unmatched finalists can still apply to partner schools via regular decision. Application Process & Timeline 📅 📝 College Match Application: September submission.🏆 Rank Colleges: Up to 15 schools.📄 Finalist Requirements: Submit supplemental materials by early November.🎉 Match Notification: December. Taylor’s Personal Journey 💡 Taylor pursued QuestBridge to afford college and was drawn to Notre Dame after a pivotal premed-focused event.Key lesson: admissions isn’t just about four years; it’s about joining a lifelong community. Thriving as a QuestBridge Student 🌱 📚 Academic Excellence: Challenge yourself with rigorous coursework and demonstrate curiosity.🙋 Ask for Help: College is different from high school — seek guidance from professors and peers.🤝 Support Network: QuestBridge Scholars Network chapters provide mentorship, community, and resources. Application Tips 📝 📊 Stay Organized: Use a spreadsheet for essays, recommendations, and supplemental materials.✍️ Be Authentic: Essays should highlight a meaningful chapter of your life.🖨️ The “Printer Test”: Would someone who knows you recognize your essay without your name?🔍...

    20 min

  3. DEC 8

    346. Pomona College - Paola Franco -Assistant Dean of Admissions and Transfer Coordinator

    🎙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: What it means to learn at a place where “education happens everywhere”Pomona’s commitment to diversity, global engagement, and civic impactNew programs like Data Science and Global Gateway Courses in Mexico, Morocco, Hawaii, and moreA deep dive into Pomona’s holistic admissions review, including the five “Valued Qualities” (ICAC, PICL, CSEP, CNB, Personal Traits)How applicants should decide whether or not to submit standardized test scores (spoiler: Paola’s “pizza slice” metaphor is a must-hear)How GPA, rigor, and course context are reviewed — and the important role of the school profileSupport for neurodiverse students and those with IEP or 504 plansPomona’s commitment to affordability, including meeting 100% of demonstrated need without loansSpecific resources for transfer students and how Pomona builds community across experiencesThoughts on AI in the application process and what authenticity really means in a college essayThe story behind Pomona’s beloved number 47 and its annual celebration “4/7 Day” ✅ 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 a...

    41 min

  4. DEC 1

    345. Hunter College, CUNY - Jarvis Dieujuste - Admissions Advisor

    🎓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? 🌇 Located in the heart of Manhattan, Hunter is deeply integrated with NYC’s cultural, professional, and research opportunities.📚 Strong programs in nutrition and wellness, business (via a new certificate program), and selective options like Macaulay Honors College.🧠 Committed to academic support and accessibility for students with IEPs, 504 plans, or those who are neurodiverse.🌍 Over 75% of students receive financial aid. 📞 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 a...

    22 min

  5. NOV 24

    344. Salve Regina University - Jim Fowler - VP for Enrollment Management

    🎙️ 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 a href="http://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    49 min

  6. NOV 17

    343. Florida Tech - Nick Galli - Admissions Counselor

    🎙️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: 🔗a...

    29 min

  7. NOV 10

    342. Wayne State University — Dr. Charles Cotton, Vice Provost for Strategic Enrollment Management

    🎙️ 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) ✍️ Wayne State is a Carnegie R1...

    32 min

  8. NOV 3

    341. University of Denver - Todd Rinehart - Vice Chancellor for Enrollment

    🎙️ 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 DU celebrates its 10th National Hockey Championship — ranked #1 in the nation!Learn about DU’s Four-Dimensional (4D) Student Experience, focused on: 1️⃣ Academics – Expanding intellectual growth 2️⃣ Character & Ethics – Building integrity and purpose 3️⃣ Well-being – Supporting mental and physical health 4️⃣ Career & Purpose – Preparing for meaningful professional lives🌍 Study Abroad: 70%+ of students participate; scholarships and aid apply abroad.🎓 Academics: A liberal arts foundation with standout programs in Business, Engineering, and Global Studies. 🧠 Holistic Review: What DU Really Looks For Admissions seeks great classmates and community members, not just strong GPAs.✍️ Essays: Be authentic — write to reveal who you are, not to impress.📚 Rigor in Context: Take challenging courses where possible, but don’t overload.🧾 Recommendations: Offer insight into character, work ethic, and engagement. 🎯 Test-Optional Policy & Financial Aid 🧪 Tests Optional: Submit SAT/ACT only if scores strengthen your file — academics matter most.💰 Financial Aid: Don’t fear the sticker price — DU offers generous merit and need-based aid.🎓 Automatic consideration for major scholarships like the $40,000 Chancellor’s Award.🧾 FAFSA + CSS Profile required for full aid review. 📈 Enrollment, Waitlist & Smart Questions to Ask DU receives ~20,000 apps annually, enrolling ~1,300 first-years.🕓 Waitlist is not ranked; decisions depend on class needs — express genuine interest to your regional counselor.🤔 Families should focus on long-term outcomes and value, not just rankings or salary data. 💬 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...

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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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