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Oct. 22, 2023

Mastering College Admissions: Tips and Insights from Ian Schachner of Cornell University

Mastering  College Admissions: Tips and Insights from Ian Schachner of Cornell University

In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," I sat down for a follow-up episode with Ian Schachner, the Senior Associate Director at Cornell University's ILR Admissions Office, to decode the intricate world of college admissions.  Ian offered a wealth of knowledge, insights, and practical tips to empower students and parents as they navigate this pivotal phase of their academic lives.  Whether you intend to apply to Cornell or not, Ian’s insights into how to navigate the process are a must for anytone going through the process.  

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE PODCAST EPISODE.

Here's a glimpse of what you can expect from this engaging episode, and why you won't want to miss it:

  1. Admissions: The HR of Academia
    • Ian masterfully draws a parallel between college admissions and human resources, shedding light on the meticulous process of selecting the right candidates from a pool of highly qualified applicants. Learn the key components that Cornell seeks in its prospective students.
  1. The Secret to Cornell's Impressive Retention Rate
    • Ian unveils the enigmatic secret behind Cornell's outstanding 96% retention rate. Find out what keeps students content and eager to return to campus year after year.
  1. Finding the Perfect Fit for You
    • Ian advises students to ponder whether Cornell is the right fit for them. He shares essential factors to consider when determining if the institution aligns with their goals and aspirations.
  1. Crafting Compelling Supplemental Essays
    • Ian provides valuable guidance on creating standout supplemental essays. Learn how to avoid the copy-and-paste trap and demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding of Cornell's programs.
  1. Crafting the Perfect Application Package
    • Ian sheds light on the art of presenting your application as a compelling "marketing package." Discover how to make the most of the limited space and make a memorable impression on admissions counselors.
  1. The Test-Optional Landscape
    • Get a comprehensive overview of Cornell's test-optional policy and the evolving trend of standardized testing in college admissions. Find out the percentage of students admitted without submitting test scores and where this policy might be headed in the future.
  1. Decoding Being Deferred and Waitlisted
    • Understand the differences between being deferred and waitlisted, and what steps students can take if they find themselves in either category, all while keeping their dream of attending Cornell alive.
  1. Balancing Uneven High School Offerings
    • Ian addresses the evaluation process for students coming from schools with differing numbers of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, ensuring a fair and equitable assessment.
  1. Navigating Financial Aid and Scholarships - Gain insights into Cornell's approach to financial aid and scholarships, as well as the available resources to help students and families make higher education more affordable.
  2. Preparing for the College Admissions Journey - To wrap up, Ian shares additional advice for students and their parents as they embark on the college admissions process, making it a smoother and more successful experience.

Whether you're a student aiming for your dream college or a parent supporting your child on this journey, this episode is packed with actionable advice and eye-opening information.

Share and Support! Share this blog and the podcast episode with fellow students, parents, and educators who are seeking clarity in the complex world of college admissions.  Good luck to all!

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