The College Admissions Process Podcast

📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts🎙️ In this episode, Dr. John Durante sits down with returning guest Dr. Jen Gagne from the Colorado School of Mines (Mines) to explore the university’s hands-on, collaborative culture, holistic admissions review, and exciting new innovations. 🚀Dr. Gagne shares how Mines develops world-class scientists and engineers while emphasizing community, authenticity, and purpose-driven learning.🔧 Key Highlights🤝 Engineering a Collaborative Community“Engineer Our Engineers” – Mines builds collaboration, not competition.🪨 The M Climb: Students carry hometown rocks up Mount Zion to symbolize “we climb together.”⚙️ From cycling champs to esports and intramurals — everyone supports each other through shared rigor.🧠 Hands-On Learning & Innovation🪓 Real-world resources: the Edgar Experimental Mine, Labriola Innovation Hub, and McNeel Center for Entrepreneurship.🚀 Mines students founded Orbital Mining Corp., winning $500K from NASA’s Watts on the Moon Challenge!🧪 Undergrads dive into research early through programs like MURF and SURF, tackling real-world problems like lithium battery recycling and women’s health innovations.📄 Holistic Admissions ReviewMines reviews everything: transcript, essays, LORs, and personal context.🔬 Academic rigor matters — especially in math and science — but effort and growth count too.🗣️ Strong recommendations highlight persistence, character, and communication skills.📝 Use the “Additional Information” section to explain any personal challenges.⚛️ The New Supplemental Question💡 “What element on the periodic table best represents you — and why?”Dr. Gagne encourages authentic, creative responses that reflect who you truly are.✍️ Also required: “Why do you want to be an Ordigger and what do you want to study?”🏫 Institutional Priorities & Admissions TipsMines must enroll at least 55% in-state students.Demonstrated interest matters! Out-of-state applicants should attend virtual events or reach out directly.📐 Coursework: 4 years of math (through pre-calc/trig), 3 years of lab science (chem or physics required).💼 Career Connections & Financial Aid1,600+ companies recruit at Mines each year — the largest career fair in the Rockies!💰 Merit awards: up to $8K/year in-state and $16K/year out-of-state (test optional).Additional competitive scholarships available via a separate application.🔮 Looking Ahead: The Quantum CommonsMines broke ground on Quantum Commons — the largest quantum ecosystem in the U.S. ⚡Offering grad-level programs and an undergrad minor in quantum engineering.🎧 Tune in to hear Dr. Gagne’s insights on authenticity, opportunity, and what it truly means to “climb together” at Mines.

📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante welcomes back the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) — this time with guest Meg Werth, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions. Meg provides deep insights into one of the most innovation-forward institutions in the U.S. 🇺🇸🔬🎨 Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, this conversation offers valuable guidance on navigating RIT’s tech-savvy, hands-on approach to education and admissions.💡 Top 4 Takeaways for Families:1️⃣ RIT’s Commitment to Experiential Learning Is Second to NoneRIT students dive into hands-on, career-building experiences from the moment they arrive on campus. With one of the largest and oldest paid cooperative education (co-op) programs in the country, students gain real-world experience — and income 💼 — before graduating. Engineering majors, for example, complete a full year of paid, full-time work experience built right into the curriculum. Even better? No tuition is charged while students are on co-op.2️⃣ New Economy Majors and Interdisciplinary Innovation 🔄RIT has created an exciting category called "New Economy Majors" in direct response to the rapidly evolving job market. These interdisciplinary programs combine liberal arts, tech, science, design, and business in fresh and future-focused ways. Think Motion Picture Science 🎬, Human-Centered Computing 🧠💻, and Robotics & Manufacturing Engineering 🤖. Plus, all students complete an “immersion” in an area outside their major, reinforcing well-rounded skill development.3️⃣ Study Abroad Made Easy — and Affordable 🌍✈️With global campuses in Croatia, Dubai, Kosovo, and China, RIT gives students the opportunity to experience the world without transferring credits or paying extra tuition. RIT also offers faculty-led trips, international co-ops, and research abroad, helping students build global competencies and career readiness.4️⃣ Clear, Holistic Admissions Review + Transparent GuidanceRIT is test-optional, but not test-ambiguous. Students are guided to submit SAT/ACT scores only if they fall within the published “Academic Profile” for their desired program. Meg emphasizes that applicants are never penalized for withholding scores, and that RIT places a strong focus on course rigor, meaningful extracurriculars, and alignment with the student’s intended major. ✍️ Personal statements are a chance to add depth and share your voice — not repeat what’s already on the application.🎓 More Highlights:📍 The SHED (Student Hall for Exploration and Development) is a cutting-edge facility supporting everything from performing arts to engineering projects — all under one glass roof in the heart of Brick City 🧱✨💰 All students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, and aid is consistent across Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision plans🎭 RIT values performing arts and offers a scholarship program for students participating in music, theater, dance, stage crew, and more🚀 Entrepreneurship is thriving on campus thanks to the Simone Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship🧭 RIT’s exploration programs allow students to enter undecided within a college (like engineering or liberal arts) without losing time toward graduation📊 94% of graduates from “New Economy” majors are employed or in graduate school shortly after graduation🧠 Advice from Meg Werth to Students and Families:Start your research early and reach out to admissions counselors — they’re here to help!Stay organized with deadlines and requirements 🗓️Choose a college based on fit, not rankings, and visit campuses to get the full pictureBe authentic in your application and personal statement — let your voice shine!RIT Admissions📬 Contact RIT Admissions:If you have any questions or want to schedule a visit, reach out to the RIT Undergraduate Admissions team at admissions@rit.edu or visit rit.edu/admissions for more.🧡 If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a student, family, or school counselor you know! Subscribe, leave a review, and follow The College Admissions Process Podcast for more expert insight from schools across the country.🎙️

📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING ENGAGEMENTSIn this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host Dr. John Durante sits down with Dr. Angel Perez, CEO of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), for a powerful conversation about college admissions, access, affordability, and authenticity.Dr. Perez shares his inspiring journey from growing up in the South Bronx as a first-generation college student to becoming one of the most influential leaders in higher education today—offering insight every student, parent, counselor, and educator should hear.🔑 Key Topics in This EpisodeCollege Admissions Advocacy: How NACAC works to improve college access and affordability, especially for students in under-resourced schools.Essential Admissions Resources: Why families should explore nacacnet.org for college fairs, essay workshops, and trusted guidance.The Truth About Selectivity: Most colleges admit the majority of applicants—and are looking for authentic student stories, not perfection.The Future of College Fairs: How NACAC is evolving fairs into college and career festivals that connect education to the future of work.Advice for Students: Why being authentic in essays and applications matters more than trying to fit a perceived mold.Visit NACACDr. Angel Perez - Website—----------------------------👉 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante welcomes Rachel Marlowe, Admissions Counselor at Franklin & Marshall College, to explore how F&M supports students through a deeply personalized, community-first approach to admissions. ❤️📚 From transparent financial aid to what “fit” really means at a liberal arts college, this conversation is packed with value for students, families, and counselors navigating the college process.✅ Whether you're curious about merit scholarships, what makes a standout essay, or how to show authentic interest, Rachel offers key insights from the inside. Plus, you'll get an unexpected pitch for why Lancaster, PA might just be your new favorite college town! 🏙️🌾🎧 Top 3 Takeaways:1️⃣ Your Application = Your Scholarship ApplicationAt F&M, there’s no extra work to be considered for merit-based scholarships 💰—no additional essays or forms. If you apply, you’re already in the running. Rachel explains how this approach reflects their “heart-forward” philosophy and respect for students’ time. 💖2️⃣ Community Fit Matters as Much as AcademicsF&M admits students who will thrive in a small, tight-knit campus environment. With a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of 17 👥, the college values how students contribute outside the classroom just as much as how they perform inside it. Rachel shares what their team looks for: involvement, global perspectives, and a genuine connection to the community. 🌍🤝3️⃣ Location, Location, Lancaster!You’ll hear a glowing tribute to Lancaster, PA, which Rachel calls a “hidden gem.” 🍽️🎨🌳 From a vibrant food and arts scene to nearby outdoor adventures (Susquehanna River! Appalachian Trail!), students get the best of both city and rural life. Plus, Lancaster’s rich history is intertwined with F&M’s founding in 1787 🇺🇸📜.✨ Bonus Highlights:What "demonstrated interest" looks like at a place that truly wants to get to know youRachel’s candid story of how she fell in love with F&M (spoiler: she literally stumbled onto campus) 🌟Why she tells students: “Your uniqueness is your superpower” 🦸‍♀️🦸‍♂️🎯 Advice to Students & Families:Don’t be afraid to lean into what makes you differentBuild relationships with admissions counselorsTrust the process—you’ll find your fit (even if it takes a transfer to get there!)🔗 CLICK HERE to learn more about Franklin & Marshall College—----------------------------👉 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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-------------------------------------------------------🎙️ Navigating the Digital SAT, National Merit, and Scholarship Successwith Dr. Shaan Patel (CEO & Founder of Prep Expert)In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO and Founder of Prep Expert and title sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. A board-certified dermatologist and Shark Tank success story (Mark Cuban deal), Dr. Patel breaks down what families must understand right now about the Digital SAT, the PSAT, and how high test scores can unlock life-changing scholarships.🔍 Key Insights from the Conversation🧠 Why the Adaptive Format MattersThe Digital SAT adjusts by module. Strong performance on Module 1 is essential to unlock the harder Module 2—the only path to top scores.🏆 PSAT = Scholarship OpportunityThe PSAT isn’t “just practice.” Top 1% scorers can earn National Merit recognition, leading to full or half-tuition scholarships at 100+ colleges.📈 Testing Is Making a ComebackWith many colleges—including Ivies and major state schools—reinstating test requirements, high scores matter more than ever for admissions and merit aid, especially amid grade inflation.✏️ Proven Test-Taking Strategies📝 Use Scratch Paper—AlwaysWriting out work boosts accuracy and frees mental bandwidth, even on a digital exam.✍️ Writing Section Red FlagsPassive constructions (“being,” “is why,” “is because”) are almost never correct.➗ Hard Math TipWhen stuck between two answers, the “uglier” option (square roots, fractions) is often right on higher-level questions.📚 Beat the Clock the Right WayStudents lose time debating answers—not reading. Elimination strategies cut decision time dramatically.🚀 Action Steps for Families1️⃣ Start prep in 9th or 10th grade—especially to be ready for the 11th-grade PSAT2️⃣ Practice with the College Board Blue Book App3️⃣ Pair strong content with proven strategies to reach the 99th percentile4️⃣ Explore Prep Expert’s courses or 1:1 college counseling support🔗 Resourceswww.PrepExpert.comCollege Board Blue Book —-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS🎓 Podcast Show Notes: Colorado State University (CSU)Guest: Heather Daniels, Executive Director of Admissions, Colorado State UniversityHost: Dr. John Durante, The College Admissions Process Podcast📍 About Colorado State UniversityLocated in Fort Collins, Colorado, about an hour north of Denver and at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.A land-grant university known for agriculture, engineering, business, natural resources, and liberal arts.Mission-driven with a strong focus on access, service, and real-world impact.📊 Admissions & Enrollment HighlightsBy state mandate, approximately 55% in-state and 45% out-of-state enrollment.Nearly 40,000 applications for an incoming class of about 5,550 students.Accessible admit rate of approximately 87–88%.No formal waitlist; some applications may be held to review senior-year grades.🧠 Holistic Review ProcessAcademic performance and course rigor matter most—but context matters.Admissions officers consider each student’s story and circumstances.Test-optional and effectively test-free: scores are not used for admission, scholarships, financial aid, or placement.Essays are encouraged to be authentic and reflective, not formulaic.💰 Affordability & TransparencyApplications are free for Colorado residents.Families are encouraged to use the Net Price Calculator and plan for all four years.Scholarship opportunities and criteria are clearly outlined on CSU’s website.💡 Advice for ApplicantsBe yourself—authenticity matters.Finish senior year strong; grades still count.Visit a variety of campuses to understand fit.Ask questions—admissions offices are there to help.Colorado State University - Admissions —----------------------------👉 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS🎙️ 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 wayRhodes College Admissions—----------------------------👉 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts

🎙️ 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.comscholarships.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 www.PrepExpert.com—-----------------------------Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎙️ Inside Sewanee Admissions – What You Need to Know!📍 Guest: Sarah Butler, Assistant Dean of Admission, Office of Admission & Financial AidAre 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 CuriousSewanee 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 experiencesSarah 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 ProcessFrom 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 InsightsWhile 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 counselorFor 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 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com

🎓 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.College of Charleston—----------------------------👉 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with LinksClick Here To Join The Podcast Email Listwww.collegeadmissionstalk.com