349. College of Charleston - Ashley Holdridge - Regional Assistant Director of Admissions
π In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast we welcome back the College of Charleston π΄, this time featuring Ashley Holdridge, Regional Assistant Director of Admissions. Building on the college’s original appearance in Episode 195 π, 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 πΊοΈ.
Ashley shares a compelling overview of academic life at Charleston, where a liberal arts foundation π§ meets career-ready pathways πΌ in high-impact programs like:
- Marine biology π
- Business π°
- Education π§π«
- The arts π
From internships at the Charleston Music Hall πΆ to hands-on field research on the water π, real-world experiences are deeply woven into the student journey.
π In this episode, we explore:
- The holistic admissions review process π, including how applications are evaluated through two key lenses π: academic performance and everything beyond the classroom
- How Charleston uses a contextual review π, understanding students based on what was available to them in their high school environment
- Why depth > breadth π when it comes to extracurricular activities — it’s not about doing it all, but doing it well
- How a thoughtful and reflective personal statement βοΈ can show resilience, growth, or key turning points
- A host of student support services π€, such as:
The First Year Experience Program π
Peer mentoring π₯
The popular Majors and Minors Fair π
Advice on navigating the waitlist β³ and how to connect with your regional admissions counselor π¬ (hint: she says go for it!)
π‘ Ashley also encourages students to ask deeper questions π€ when researching schools — ones that focus on values, vibe, and fit β€οΈ, not just rankings or prestige.
β¨ Don’t miss Ashley’s top 3 pieces of advice for students and families just starting the college journey:
- Visit campuses when possible π§
- Learn how to manage your “free time” in college (spoiler: it’s not always free! β°)
- Show yourself and others grace throughout the process π
Whether you’re considering the College of Charleston π 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.
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π 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 π―π
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Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
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