The College Admissions Process Podcast

John Durante
  • 4.7 (127)
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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. 9m ago

    377. United States Coast Guard Acedemy - CAPT Drew Behnke, Director of Admissions, and Katherine Fainer, Deputy Director of Admissions

    Navigating Admissions at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy: Purpose, Service, and the 200-Week JourneyWhat does it really take to earn a place at the United States Coast Guard Academy — and succeed once you arrive? In this episode, I sit down with CAPT Drew Behnke, Director of Admissions, and Katherine Fainer, Deputy Director of Admissions, to explore one of the most mission-driven college pathways in the nation. With a humanitarian focus on saving lives, no congressional nomination requirement, and a rigorous STEM-based leadership curriculum, this is a college experience unlike any other. We discuss what admissions truly values, how resilience and physical readiness shape the selection process, and why graduates are expected to lead real-world missions almost immediately after commissioning. If your student feels called to serve — and wants meaningful responsibility from day one — this is a conversation worth hearing. Key HighlightsA humanitarian mission centered on search and rescue, law enforcement, and environmental protectionThe only federal service academy with no congressional nomination requiredA true “whole person” review emphasizing rigor, resilience, and adaptabilityFitness as a professional obligation, not just an extracurricularGraduates stepping into operational leadership within weeksThe AIM Summer Program as a powerful preview — and pipeline — to admission This episode clarifies the pathway, raises the bar, and challenges students to consider service at the highest level. United States Coast Guard Academy Admissions ---------------------------------- 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    1h 3m

  2. May 25

    376. What Admissions Officers Really Look For | Inside Nazareth University Admissions

    In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I am joined by Amanda Brady, Dean of Admissions at Nazareth University, for an honest and insightful conversation about the realities of today’s college admissions process—and what students often misunderstand when applying to college. Amanda shares how applications are truly reviewed at Nazareth University, why context matters more than perfection, and what separates memorable essays from forgettable ones. She also discusses the growing role of AI in higher education, the importance of demonstrated interest, and why students should focus less on rankings and more on finding the right fit. The conversation also highlights the unique student experience at Nazareth, including hands-on learning opportunities, community engagement, study abroad experiences, and innovative academic programs designed to prepare students for the future. In this episode, you’ll learn: What admissions officers notice immediately in an applicationThe biggest mistakes students make with college essaysHow to explain academic struggles or gaps effectivelyWhy demonstrated interest can matter more than students realizeHow Nazareth supports ambitious student goals and career explorationWhat families should know about test-optional admissions and Early Decision Whether you are a student preparing your applications, a parent navigating the process, or a counselor supporting families, this episode offers practical advice and valuable insight directly from a dean of admissions. Nazareth University Admissions ---------------------------- 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    32 min

  3. May 18

    375. Inside Denison University Admissions: What Applicants Should Know

    In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with representatives from Denison University to take a closer look at the admissions process at a highly selective liberal arts college. From Denison’s philosophy of the “multi-interested” student to a behind-the-scenes look at how applications are reviewed, this conversation offers valuable insights for students and families navigating the college search. Featured GuestsJesse Leary Yagher – Director of Recruitment, Denison UniversityCaitlin Ladda – Director of Selection, Denison UniversityGrace Ostrosky – Current sophomore, studying Creative Writing & Journalism Key TakeawaysThe “Multi-Interested” Student Denison encourages exploration. Students are not expected to declare a major right away and have the flexibility to discover their academic interests through their sophomore year. The Transcript Matters Most Denison places significant emphasis on the high school transcript as the strongest predictor of future success, supporting their long-standing test-optional approach. A Truly Holistic Review Applications are reviewed by real people—often beginning with a territory manager who understands the context of a student’s high school. Authenticity in essays matters far more than trying to sound “perfect.” Research & Mentorship Opportunities Programs like the Summer Scholars initiative give students the opportunity to conduct faculty-mentored research, with funding and housing support. A Campus That Continues to Evolve Denison continues to expand its academic offerings, including programs in Finance and Data Analytics, along with new campus facilities like Noble Hall. Demonstrated Interest Engaging with Denison—through interviews, visits, or virtual events—can play a meaningful role in the application process. Denison Admission & Financial Aid 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    48 min

  4. May 11

    374. Lehigh University - Bruce Bunnick - Director of Admissions

    🎙️ It was an honor to welcome back Bruce Bunnick, Director of Admissions at Lehigh University, to discuss how this R1 research university maintains the heart of a liberal arts college. They cover Lehigh’s interdisciplinary academics, holistic admissions process, and strategies for students navigating a test-optional environment. Key Takeaways ✅ The Lehigh Identity: ~6,000 undergrads across Arts & Sciences, Business, Engineering, and Health. Interdisciplinary options let students mix majors and minors across fields.Holistic Review & Personal Voice: Essays matter—“give voice to an otherwise voiceless application.” A memorable essay can tip the scales. ✍️Context is Key: Students are evaluated within their high school context; use available resources rather than feeling pressured to pad your resume. 📚Strategic Testing: Test-optional (~50% submit). Take exams if helpful, but only report scores that truly reflect your academic performance. 🎓Support for All Learners: Disability services, writing, and math centers support students with IEPs/504 plans or unique learning needs. 🧩Financial Literacy: Use the Net Price Calculator early and contact financial aid to explore scholarships. 💰 Notable Quotes 💬 "The personal essay provides a window into that student and their world... I will remember a student because of what they wrote about themselves." — Bruce Bunnick"This is still a decidedly humanistic process... there are people reading those applications. We don't have an algorithm that determines what is the best fit." — Bruce Bunnick Lehigh University Admissions 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    51 min

  5. May 4

    373. University of Alaska Fairbanks - Palmer H. Muntz - Senior Regional Admissions Counselor

    🎙️ University of Alaska Fairbanks: Research, Adventure, and a Test-Free Admissions Process What’s it really like to attend the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)—the smallest flagship university in the U.S. and a major research powerhouse? In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante speaks with Palmer H. Muntz, Senior Regional Admissions Counselor at UAF, for a behind-the-scenes look at academics, campus culture, and admissions. 🏔️ Why Students Choose UAF A welcoming, inclusive campus with strong Indigenous representationIdeal for adventurous, independent students—indoors or outdoorsLGBTQ- and military-friendly community 🔬 Big Research, Small Campus Feel 7,000 students | 11:1 student–faculty ratio💡 URSA grants up to $6,000 for undergraduate research🚀 Home to the only university-owned rocket range in the world🌍 National leader in climate and Arctic research 📄 Admissions Made Simple Test-free (SAT/ACT not considered)No essays, no holistic reviewDecisions based on major, coursework, and grades 💰 Affordability Matters Automatic merit scholarships (Nanook Pledge)WUE tuition for eligible statesIn-state tuition after 12 months in Alaska 🎯 Final Takeaway: Choose an affordable “sure thing,” stay open-minded, and remember—transferring is always an option. Links Shared by Palmer: University of Alaska Fairbanks - www.uaf.edu/admissions/ Western Undergraduate Exchange – www.wiche.edu/wue Life in Sub-Arctic Alaska Video - https://youtu.be/RPhTz6pXZi4 The 40 Below Club - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2214146376/ UAF’s “The College Tour” episode - https://www.thecollegetour.com/watch/university-of-alaska-fairbanks/ My LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/palmermuntz/ ------------------------------------------------- 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    38 min

  6. Apr 27

    372. UC Santa Cruz - Jasmine Tule and Beatrice Atkinson-Myers

    🎙️ Episode: Exploring UC Santa Cruz – Holistic Admissions, Research, and Student Life 🌊🌲 In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host Dr. John Dante sits down with Jasmine Tule and Beatrice Atkinson-Myers to explore the unique educational experience at UC Santa Cruz. As the second-smallest campus in the UC system, UCSC offers a close-knit community nestled between the Redwood Forest and the Pacific Ocean, with a strong focus on environmental stewardship, social justice, and interdisciplinary research. 💡 Inside this episode, you’ll learn about: How 75% of students engage in research projects before graduation 🌱🔬Innovative programs like the Global and Community Health major and humanistic approaches to AI ethics 🤖❤️A holistic, test-free admissions process, evaluating academic growth from 9th–11th grade 📈The role of Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) and strategies for maximizing the activities section ✍️How students with disabilities can self-advocate to get the support they need ♿Resources and guidance for the 30% of students entering as transfers 🔄Major financial aid opportunities, including the Undergraduate Dean’s Award and UCSC’s high-ranking financial aid excellence 💰 Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, this episode is packed with insights to help you understand UCSC’s admissions, student experience, and financial support options. UC Santa Cruz Admissions & Aid University of California's Application for Undergraduate Admissions and Scholarships Personal Insight Questions A-G Academic Subject Requirements UC Transfer Admissions Guarantee UC Transfer Admission Planner ------------------------------ 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    42 min

  7. Apr 20

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

    In this episode, Dr. John Durante welcomes back Carlos Cano, the Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. Carlos provides an insider's look at how Stevens evaluates applicants, the introduction of a groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence major, and the university’s commitment to affordability through the new "Stevens Investment" program. Whether you are a student aiming for a career in STEM or a parent navigating the "passenger seat" of the admissions journey, this conversation offers practical advice on standing out in a competitive field. Key Takeaways: • New Affordability Initiatives: Stevens has introduced "The Stevens Investment," a program starting for the Fall 2026 class that meets 100% of tuition needs for families with an income of less than $75,000. • Cutting-Edge Academics: Stevens is launching one of the nation's few undergraduate majors in Artificial Intelligence for Fall 2026. • The Stevens Philosophy: The institution operates under the motto "Inspired by humanity, empowered by technology," focusing on bridging the gap between technical innovation and real-world impact. • Application Insights: ◦ Test-Optional Policy: Stevens will remain test-optional through Fall 2029, as internal data shows little difference in performance between students who submit scores and those who do not. ◦ Evaluation Process: Applications are reviewed by two to five readers who look for reasons to admit, focusing heavily on academic rigor (especially Calculus for engineering applicants) and demonstrated interest. ◦ Holistic Review: The team values quality over quantity in extracurriculars and encourages students to use the additional information section to provide context for personal circumstances or "intangibles". • Institutional Priorities: Current goals include increasing the female population in STEM and expanding the student body’s geographic diversity to represent all 50 states. Expert Advice for Families: • For Students: "Drive the process." Be the one communicating with admissions and making the final decisions. Stay organized and prioritize campus visits to ensure the "vibe" is the right fit. • For Parents: Act as the "biggest cheerleader" from the passenger seat. Support the journey without taking the wheel. • On Essays: Avoid common pitfalls like the "generic sports injury" story unless it reveals a deeper, unique discovery. Use the supplemental essay to specifically connect your goals to Stevens’ unique offerings. Memorable Quote: "This process at the end of the day is supposed to be fun for everyone involved... take the opportunities when you need to to take a step back and reenter and refocus so that when the victories come, you're ready to celebrate them in earnest." — Carlos Cano ------------------------------------------------- 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    59 min

  8. Apr 13

    370. University of Idaho - Casey Campbell - Assistant Director of Admissions

    🎙️ In this episode I speak with with Casey Campbell, Assistant Director of Admissions at University of Idaho, about what makes the Vandal experience unique: 🌟 Campus Culture: The “Hello Walk” keeps students and faculty connected through friendly greetings—every day. 🔬 Early Research Access: Two-thirds of undergrads engage in research, often before senior year. 📅 Rolling Admissions & Financial Planning: Apply early to secure housing and plan finances. 💰 Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE): Save ~$16k/year for western students—stackable with GPA-based scholarships. ✏️ Additional Info Section: Use it to explain context for grades or outside responsibilities. 🌲 Experiential Learning: Programs like “Semester in the Wild” let students research in Idaho’s wilderness. 🤝 Student Support: CDAR & Raven Scholar programs provide personalized support for all students. Casey’s Top Tips for Applicants: 1️⃣ Do Your Research – Make sure U of I offers what you need. 2️⃣ Reach Out – Admissions counselors are here to help. 3️⃣ Visit Campus – Virtual or in-person, get a feel for the environment. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: ZeeMee, Scholarship Universe, Vandal Gateway Program 💡 Analogy: U of I = a professional-grade research lab with the warmth of a family dinner table—top-tier resources, small-community feel, and yes…everyone says hello. Home | University of Idaho Admissions | University of Idaho Experiential learning | University of Idaho Visit — virtual and campus tours | University of Idaho A very busy day in the life | University of Idaho engineering student ---------------------------------------------- 📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 👉 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. 🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off. 📚 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 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com ​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

    28 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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