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

    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

  2. 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

  3. APR 6

    369. Claremont McKenna College - Jennifer Sandoval-Danc - VP for Admission & Financial Aid

    🎙️ Claremont McKenna College: Mission, Fit & Holistic Admissions Guest: Jennifer Sandoval-Dance, VP for Admission & Financial Aid at CMC In this episode, Jennifer returns to break down what’s new at Claremont McKenna and what truly matters in their admissions review. If you’re applying to CMC—or any selective liberal arts college—this is a must-listen. 🌟 What We Cover: • New academic and campus developments, including the Open Academy and the Kravis Department of Integrated Sciences • How CMC’s mission of leadership and responsible citizenship drives everything—from courses to the review process • What the two-officer holistic review really looks like 👀 • How to approach the CMC supplemental essays, especially mission alignment + Open Academy • What CMC looks for in transcripts, rigor, and academic context 📚 • Test-optional advice (and future testing considerations) • How to communicate leadership and impact in the Activities section • Guidance for students with IEPs/504s and how to think about disclosure • Why financial fit conversations need to start early 💸 • Jennifer’s top advice for applicants and families navigating this process 🎯 Whether you're just starting your search or finalizing applications, this conversation offers clear and actionable guidance straight from CMC’s admissions leadership. 🎧 Tune in and share with a student exploring CMC or the Claremont Colleges! Open Academy Kravis Department of Integrated Sciences Robert Day Sciences Center Accessibility Services 📬 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

  4. APR 1

    368. Agnes Scott College - Miya Walker - Director of Admission

    🎓 Navigating the Admissions Journey with Agnes Scott College In this episode of The College Admissions Process podcast, Dr. John Durante sits down with Miya Walker, Director of Admission at Agnes Scott College, to explore what makes this historic women’s college truly distinctive. Located in Decatur, Georgia—just minutes from downtown Atlanta—Agnes Scott offers a close-knit, academically rigorous community designed to help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. 🌍 The Summit Experience Miya breaks down Agnes Scott’s signature Summit Experience, a required three-pillar program that prepares students for life after college: Global Journeys: A funded, first-year experiential travel opportunity that builds a global mindset ✈️Professional Success: Career exploration, mentorship, and post-graduate planning 💼Leadership Development: Leadership (LDR) courses that help students define how they lead within a community 🧭 📝 Admissions Insights & Deadlines Agnes Scott uses rolling admission, with decisions typically released within 2–4 weeks once an application is complete. The college has been test-optional for 15 years and is now recommendation-optional, reinforcing its commitment to access and equity. The January 15 priority deadline is especially important for merit scholarships, including the Presidential Scholarship. 🔍 The Holistic Review Process Miya shares what the admissions team looks for—“thrivers” who will flourish in a collaborative environment. Key advice includes using the Additional Information section to provide context, fully capturing responsibilities in the Activities section, and ensuring the personal statement clearly answers the prompt and stays focused on the applicant. 💰 Affordability & Support Agnes Scott offers strong financial support, including merit scholarships ranging from $25,000–$32,000 and the Atlanta Grant for out-of-state and international students. The college is FAFSA-only (no CSS Profile) and works closely with families to plan for all four years. 💬 Final Advice Miya encourages students to visit campuses to find where they truly belong—and reminds families that, even in a stressful process, there is still room for joy and grace along the way ❤️ Agnes Scott College - Admission & 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

    54 min

  5. MAR 30

    367. Inside College Admissions at Skidmore College: Essays, Test-Optional Advice, and What Really Matters

    Creative Thought Matters: Navigating Admissions at Skidmore CollegeEpisode OverviewIn this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante sits down with Dr. Janessa Dunn, Director of Admissions at Skidmore College, to pull back the curtain on the admissions process at one of the nation’s premier liberal arts colleges. Located in the quintessential college town of Saratoga Springs, Skidmore is a campus where “Creative Thought Matters” and interdisciplinary exploration are central to the student experience. In this conversation, Dr. Dunn shares how admissions officers evaluate applications, what truly stands out in the review process, and how students can best present their authentic selves. Whether you're curious about how to stand out among more than 12,000 applicants or simply want to learn what makes Skidmore’s campus community so distinctive, this episode offers valuable insights for students and families navigating the college admissions journey. What Listeners Will Learn • How admissions officers review applications using a holistic process • What makes a college essay truly stand out • When it makes sense to submit SAT or ACT scores at a test-optional school • What admissions officers really look for in letters of recommendation • The right—and wrong—way to use the Additional Information section of an application • What makes the student experience at Skidmore unique Key Highlights from the Episode The “Crust of the Pie” Analogy Dr. Dunn explains Skidmore’s holistic review process using a memorable pie metaphor. Learn the four key components that form the “crust” of a strong application and how your high school transcript helps tell your academic story. The 75/25 Essay Rule Why should most of your essay focus on the meaning behind your experiences? Dr. Dunn explains why roughly 75% of a compelling college essay should focus on reflection rather than simply retelling events. To Submit or Not Submit Test Scores With approximately 65% of the most recent incoming class applying test-optional, Dr. Dunn offers candid advice on how students should decide whether their SAT or ACT scores strengthen their application. Beyond the Grades: Letters of Recommendation What makes a recommendation letter stand out? Dr. Dunn explains why admissions officers value teachers who can speak to a student’s character, curiosity, and the “intangibles” that go beyond the transcript. The “Additional Information” Trap Learn how to use this often-overlooked section of the application effectively—including when bullet points can help provide useful context—and the one mistake students should avoid. Life at Skidmore From a completely nut-free dining hall ranked among the best in the country to a student “test kitchen,” Dr. Dunn shares what makes the Skidmore campus experience both distinctive and welcoming. Skidmore Admissions & 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

    44 min

  6. MAR 23

    366. UC Berkeley - Jua Howard - Assistant Director of Admissions

    🎙️ UC Berkeley Admissions with Jua Howard — Assistant Director of Admissions returns with powerful insights you won’t want to miss. 💛💙 ⭐ What Makes Berkeley Stand Out UC Berkeley isn’t just the UC flagship — it’s a global powerhouse in research, innovation, and public service. 🌎 📚 Academics That Push Boundaries 150+ majors across top colleges, a brand-new College of Computing, and elite dual-degree programs like M.E.T. (Engineering + Business). Plus: student-taught Decal classes (yes, even Taylor Swift economics!) and global dual-degree options in France and Hong Kong. 🌍📖 💡 A Mission of Service & Change From the Free Speech Movement to Cal in the Capital, Peace Corps leadership, and social-impact competitions—Berkeley students step up. ✊💼 📝 Inside UC Berkeley Admissions Berkeley is test-free and fully holistic. They evaluate you in the context of your high school—no cross-school comparisons. Key notes: • Only 10th–11th grade grades used for UC GPA. • Self-reported app—but it must be accurate. • Use the additional comments sections to explain your story and context. • Senior year rigor matters. A lot. 🎓 🔗 This conversation is packed with clarity, strategy, and insider perspective from someone who reads the applications. Don’t miss it. Berkeley Admissions: https://admissions.berkeley.edu/ Admissions Email List: https://admissions.berkeley.edu/signup/ Virtual Tour: https://www.youvisit.com/tour/berkeley Berkeley Financial Aid: https://financialaid.berkeley.edu/ UC Berkeley Academic Catalog: https://undergraduate.catalog.berkeley.edu/ Undergraduate Research: https://research.berkeley.edu/ ----------------------------------------------------- 📬 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 14m

  7. MAR 18

    365. Sarah Lawrence College - Jennifer Gayles - Director of Admission & Inclusive Outreach

    🎙️In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Jennifer Gayles to unpack what makes Sarah Lawrence College one of the most distinctive liberal arts environments in the country. We dive into SLC’s interdisciplinary, writing-intensive curriculum and its signature four-year faculty mentorship model that supports every student from day one. 📚🧠 Jennifer also opens the door to SLC’s holistic admissions review, breaking down how essays are evaluated, the importance of optional materials, and what “rigor” truly means in context. Her guidance on supplemental essays, interviews, creative portfolios, and self-reflection is incredibly useful for any student considering a liberal arts path. 📝💡 She closes with grounded advice for applicants—stay reflective, create healthy boundaries around college conversations at home, and make sure your voice leads your writing. 🌱💬 🎧 Listen and explore more resources: The College Admissions Process Podcast 🌐 www.collegeadmissionstalk.com Sarah Lawrence College 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

  8. MAR 16

    364. Drew University - Alyson Remsing - Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management

    🎙 Episode Summary: Join Alyson Remsing - Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management at Drew University as she gives an inside look at the "University in the Forest"—and its holistic admissions process. From Early Decision perks to maximizing your application, this episode is packed with insights for students and families. 🌳 Key Highlights: Campus + City: Safe, green campus in Madison, NJ, just 50 minutes from NYC, with programs at Wall Street and the UN.Early Decision Benefits: Priority registration, special perks, and yes, even on-campus parking for freshmen.Holistic Review: Counselors assigned by region “champion” your file, making school visits meaningful.Activities Matter: Focus on quality over quantity. Use the Common App’s 150-character limit wisely, and upload a full resume for depth.Explaining Dips: Use the Additional Information section (or meet one-on-one) to contextualize academic challenges.Support & Success: Programs for students with IEPs/504s, plus summer boot camps for college readiness.Financial Clarity: Over 85% of students receive aid. Early Read provides financial estimates before committing. Drew University Admissions & 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

    36 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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