353. Colorado State University - Heather Daniels - Executive Director of Admissions
🎓 Podcast Show Notes: Colorado State University (CSU)
Guest: Heather Daniels, Executive Director of Admissions, Colorado State University
Host: Dr. John Durante, The College Admissions Process Podcast
📍 About Colorado State University
- Located 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 Highlights
- By 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 Process
- Academic 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 & Transparency
- Applications 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 Applicants
- Be 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
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