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. 9H AGO

    352. Rhodes College - Megan Starling - Director of Admission

    🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante sits down with Megan Starling, Director of Admission at Rhodes College 🎓 — a nationally recognized liberal arts institution located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. Known for its tight-knit community and powerful blend of classroom learning and real-world experience, Rhodes offers students a unique place to learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you're a student building your college list or a parent navigating the admissions maze, this episode provides must-hear insights into how Rhodes reviews applications, what they look for in an ideal candidate, and how students can take full advantage of what the school — and city — has to offer. 🌟 🔑 Top Takeaways from the Episode:✅ 1. Memphis Matters: Location as a Learning Laboratory 🏙️ Rhodes isn’t just located in Memphis — it’s deeply connected to it. Megan shares how the college’s partnerships with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, FedEx, and Memphis nonprofits offer students transformative research, internship, and service opportunities across disciplines — from biology to business to urban studies. “Being in a major metropolitan city allows our students to walk to meaningful experiences that build their resumes while they’re still undergrads.” ✅ 2. Holistic Admissions: What Really Counts at Rhodes 📝 Rhodes has long used a holistic approach to application review. Megan emphasizes that academic rigor is key — but how they define that rigor depends entirely on the context of each high school. No formulas. No rigid GPA cutoffs. “We really look at the transcript to understand what was available to the student and what they chose to take advantage of. That’s how we define rigor.” 📌 Rhodes does not recalculate GPA, and their team carefully evaluates each course — including AP, IB, dual enrollment, and honors — within a student’s unique academic environment. ✅ 3. Authenticity Over AI: The Role of Essays & Recommendations 💬🤖 With the rise of AI tools, Megan doubles down on the importance of authentic storytelling in personal statements and supplements. “The students who really stand out are those who write in their own voice — who make me feel like I know them by the end of their essay.” She also shares tips for recommendation letters (hint: choose someone who truly knows you), and common pitfalls to avoid in writing. 🎓 Quick Facts About Rhodes College: 📍 Located in Memphis, TN, a cultural and economic hub🧠 Over 50 majors, with standout programs in neuroscience, business, biology, and international studies💼 80%+ of students complete internships or research🧬 Direct partnerships with institutions like St. Jude👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Average class size: ~14 students💰 Generous merit-based scholarships and need-based aid🤝 Test-optional since 2021 and staying that way Rhodes College Admissions —---------------------------- 👉 This...

    49 min

  2. JAN 12

    351. University of Oregon - Joelle Rankins Goodwin - Senior Associate Director for Recruitment and Outreach

    🎙️ In this insightful episode, we welcome back the University of Oregon to the podcast! Joelle Rankins Goodwin provides an inside look at what’s new on campus since their last feature in 2023, what joining the Big Ten means beyond athletics, and how students can strategically navigate the UO admissions process. Whether you're applying this fall or just beginning your college research, this episode is packed with relevant, timely, and honest insights for all students and families 🧠💡. 🟢 Top 4 Takeaways for Students & Families:1. 🎯 A Truly Holistic Admissions ProcessJoelle shares that UO’s admissions review is contextual and holistic, focusing not just on academics, but also personal achievements, essays, and extracurricular involvement. No GPA cutoff, no test score mandate — just a thoughtful review of each student’s story. 📝 Pro Tip: Essays and letters of recommendation help humanize the application — authenticity matters more than perfection! 2. 🏛️ Academic Powerhouses within a Public UniversityFrom the prestigious Clark Honors College (small-class liberal arts experience within a major research university) to standout programs like Lundquist College of Business and the School of Journalism and Communication, UO offers rigorous, hands-on opportunities across disciplines. 🌍 Fun Fact: The School of Journalism at UO is one of the oldest and most respected in the country! 3. 🤝 The Big Ten Move = More Than Just SportsWhile fans are buzzing about Oregon Ducks football, Joelle explains how Big Ten membership expands academic collaboration and so much more! 🧬 Translation: More cross-campus research, academic partnerships, and increased visibility on the national stage. 🐤 Quick Facts About the University of Oregon:📍 Location: Eugene, Oregon – a vibrant college town with access to coastlines, mountains, and forests 🌲👩‍🎓 Undergrad Enrollment: ~20,000 students🏅 Test-Optional: Yes – for all applicants💼 Strong Programs: Business, Journalism, Environmental Studies, Education, Architecture, and more🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Student Life: Over 300 student organizations, robust support for first-gen and out-of-state students, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion🌟 Mascot: The Oregon Duck 🦆 Scholarship Websites mentioned in the podcast episode: fastweb.com scholarships.com —---------------------------- 👉 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 a href="https://www.prepexpert.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    38 min

  3. JAN 5

    350. The University of the South - Sewanee - Sarah Butler - Assistant Dean of Admission, Office of Admission & Financial Aid

    🎙️ Inside Sewanee Admissions – What You Need to Know! 📍 Guest: Sarah Butler, Assistant Dean of Admission, Office of Admission & Financial Aid Are you considering a liberal arts college that combines academic rigor, strong community, and stunning natural surroundings? 🌲📚 Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Sarah Butler from Sewanee: The University of the South, where we unpack what makes Sewanee unique — and what students and families need to know before applying. 🔑 TOP 3 TAKEAWAYS for Your College Research Journey: 1️⃣ 🎓 A Place for the Intellectually Curious Sewanee is a liberal arts college with a strong academic foundation, a low student-faculty ratio, and a faculty that is both deeply invested and highly accessible. Students benefit from: Small classes and rigorous discussions 💬Funded research, internships, and travel opportunities through the Sewanee Pledge ✈️💼A distinctive academic calendar and immersive learning experiences Sarah explains how Sewanee supports students who are “intellectually curious and community-minded” and thrive when fully engaged both in and out of the classroom. 2️⃣ 📄 Inside the Holistic Admissions Process From GPA context to essays, Sarah walks us through how applications are reviewed at Sewanee, sharing: They do not recalculate GPAs but evaluate them in the student’s academic context 📊Honors, AP, IB, and dual enrollment courses are recognized for their rigorTest-optional policy is truly optional, and applicants are not penalized for withholding scores 📝 Sarah also offers great advice on how to decide whether to submit SAT/ACT scores based on whether they add value to your application. 3️⃣ 🤝 Demonstrated Interest & Early Application Insights While Sewanee does track demonstrated interest, Sarah emphasizes it’s not about checking boxes — it's about building a genuine relationship with the school. She encourages: Visiting campus if possible 🚗Joining virtual info sessions and regional events 💻🌎Connecting with current students or your admission counselor For students applying Early Decision or Early Action, Sarah clarifies the differences and explains how applying early can benefit students who are confident in their choice. ✨ BONUS ADVICE: At the end of the episode, Sarah shares three must-hear tips for students and families navigating the college process — advice grounded in empathy, experience, and a deep understanding of student success. 🌐 CLICK HERE to learn more about Sewanee and start exploring. Sewanee Admissions & Aid admission.sewanee.edu —---------------------------- 👉 This episode is brought to you...

    35 min

  4. 12/29/2025

    349. College of Charleston - Ashley Holdridge - Regional Assistant Director of Admissions

    🎓 In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast we welcome back the College of Charleston 🌴, this time featuring Ashley Holdridge, Regional Assistant Director of Admissions. Building on the college’s original appearance in Episode 195 📚, Ashley offers fresh insight into what continues to make Charleston a vibrant and attractive destination — especially for students from the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions 🗺️. Ashley shares a compelling overview of academic life at Charleston, where a liberal arts foundation 🧠 meets career-ready pathways 💼 in high-impact programs like: Marine biology 🌊Business 💰Education 🧑‍🏫The arts 🎭 From internships at the Charleston Music Hall 🎶 to hands-on field research on the water 🐚, real-world experiences are deeply woven into the student journey. 🔍 In this episode, we explore: The holistic admissions review process 🔄, including how applications are evaluated through two key lenses 👓: academic performance and everything beyond the classroomHow Charleston uses a contextual review 🔎, understanding students based on what was available to them in their high school environmentWhy depth > breadth 📈 when it comes to extracurricular activities — it’s not about doing it all, but doing it wellHow a thoughtful and reflective personal statement ✍️ can show resilience, growth, or key turning pointsA host of student support services 🤝, such as: The First Year Experience Program 🎉 Peer mentoring 👥 The popular Majors and Minors Fair 📖 Advice on navigating the waitlist ⏳ and how to connect with your regional admissions counselor 📬 (hint: she says go for it!) 💡 Ashley also encourages students to ask deeper questions 🤔 when researching schools — ones that focus on values, vibe, and fit ❤️, not just rankings or prestige. ✨ Don’t miss Ashley’s top 3 pieces of advice for students and families just starting the college journey: Visit campuses when possible 🧭Learn how to manage your “free time” in college (spoiler: it’s not always free! ⏰)Show yourself and others grace throughout the process 💗 Whether you’re considering the College of Charleston 🌟 or simply looking to understand how admissions teams evaluate applicants in 2025 and beyond, this episode is packed with clear advice, encouragement, and expert perspective. a href="https://charleston.edu/admission/index.php" rel="noopener...

    16 min

  5. 12/22/2025

    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

  6. 12/15/2025

    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

  7. 12/08/2025

    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

  8. 12/01/2025

    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
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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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