Episodes

🎙️ The College Admissions Process Podcast Episode Title : Colleges That Change Lives – A Conversation with Executive Director Ann Marano Guest : Ann Marano, Executive Director, CTCL.org 🌟 Episode Summary : In this powerful follow-up conversation with Ann Marano , Executive Director of Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL) , we explore what makes this collection of schools so impactful—and why CTCL remains a beacon for families looking beyond prestige and rankings. Whether you're just starting the co...

Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Duke University - Undergraduate Admissions Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List The College Application Process Podcast - Social Media Links In this follow-up episode I had the great pleasure of speaking with Christoph Guttentag, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions at Duke University. We delved into Duke's admissions process, academic programs, campus life, and essential tips for prospective students and ...

🎙️ In this episode, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Charlotte Low, Senior Admissions Counselor at Seattle University! We dive deep into the academic offerings, application process, and financial aid opportunities at Seattle U, a highly regarded Jesuit institution located in the heart of Seattle. Whether you’re a prospective student or a parent navigating the college admissions process, this conversation provides valuable insights that apply to all families. 📌 Top 4 Takeaways from Our C...

Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links 👉 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 Applications If you're looking for helpful...

🎙️In this episode, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Derek Nettingham , the Director of Undergraduate Recruitment at The University of South Florida (USF) — a high-impact public research university with campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee . Derek shared key insights into USF’s admissions process, institutional values, and the countless opportunities that help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you're a Florida resident or applying from acro...

Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links Episode Highlights: Comparing Big State Schools and Ivy League Admissions with Experts from Michigan State and Brown University In this episode I am joined by two distinguished guests: Larry Alterman, Manager of East Coast Recruitment at Michigan State University, and Logan Powell, Associate Provost for Enrollment and Dean of Admission at Brown University. Together, they explore the nuanced differences and surprising similarities between the admission...

🎙️ In this episode I’m joined by Grace Petry , Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS) , to give you a closer look at what makes this historic liberal arts college in Geneva, New York, a truly distinctive place for personal and academic growth. 🎓🌿 Whether you're a student navigating your college list, a parent looking for the right fit for your child, or a counselor seeking to understand what makes HWS stand out—this episode is full of practical tips an...

🎙 Unlocking Admissions at George Washington University with Lindsey M. Owens 🎙 Are you considering George Washington University (GW) for your college journey? 🏛️ Located in the heart of Washington, D.C. , GW offers unparalleled access to world-class internships, research opportunities, and a dynamic urban campus experience. In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , I sit down with Lindsey M. Owens, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at GW , to uncover key insights i...

🎙️In this episode, Matt Harris 🏅, Assistant Director of High School Review at the NCAA Eligibility Center 🏈, joins us to provide essential insights into the college recruitment and eligibility process for student-athletes. 🏃‍♂️ Key Takeaways: Understanding NCAA Eligibility and Division Differences 🏆📊 Matt explains the eligibility requirements for NCAA Division I 🏈, Division II 🏀, and Division III 🏐 schools. He highlights the differences in recruitment , eligibility , and scholarships 🎓 across di...

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , host John Durante is joined by Dr. Bryan Gross , Vice President for Enrollment Management and Athletics at Hartwick College 🦅. Together, they unpack the college’s application review process, how Hartwick stays rooted in its mission and values, and what families should focus on as they navigate today’s evolving admissions landscape. Whether you're a student, parent, or counselor, this episode is full of practical advice and behind-th...

🎉 Episode 300: Mastering the College Essay with Kate Anderson & Laurie Wax ✍️📚 Welcome to the special 300th episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast ! 🎙️ I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from my amazing listeners and the many admissions experts who have shared their invaluable insights along the way. Thank you for being a part of this journey! 🙌 In this milestone episode, I’m joined by Kate Anderson and Laurie Wax, two seasoned admissions professionals, to dive deep i...

🎙️ Inside the Private Admissions World: An Interview with Akbar Rahel, Director of Admissions at Prep Expert 📌 Episode Summary : In this insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , I sit down with Akbar Rahel , the Director of Admissions at Prep Expert — our podcast’s title sponsor — to discuss the realities and ethics behind private college counseling. This episode is a must-listen for students, parents, and college counselors looking to better understand how private admissio...

🎙️ Inside Binghamton University Admissions: What’s New & How to Stand Out! 🚀 In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , I sit down with Douglas Harrington, Associate Director of Admissions at Binghamton University , to uncover the latest updates, expert application tips, and what makes Binghamton a top choice for students! 🎓💡 🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode: ✅ What’s New at Binghamton? 🏫🔬 – Since my last interview in 2023 (Episode #138), Binghamton has continued to grow and in...

🎙️Join me in this episode with David duKor-Jackson who is the Director of Admissions at MIT. We’re diving into essential topics like how to find the right fit in your college search and what you can expect from MIT’s holistic review process. Let’s get into it! 🌟 Key Highlights: Cross-Disciplinary Spirit at MIT : David shares how the collaborative and interdisciplinary culture at MIT encourages students to merge different fields to innovate and solve real-world problems. It’s all about that cross...

🎙️ In this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Jon Westover , Associate Vice Provost & Director of Admissions at NC State University 🌟. This engaging conversation dives into what makes NC State unique, its admissions process, and invaluable advice for families navigating the college application journey. Whether you're considering NC State or looking for insights into the admissions process, this episode is packed with essential takeaways for students and parents alike! 🔑 Top 4 Takeaways ...

🎙️In this exciting episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Keira Vollandt, Regional Assistant Director of First-Year Admissions at UMass Amherst 🎓. We covered everything from academic opportunities and application strategies to financial aid and student life. Whether you're applying to UMass or any other school, this conversation is packed with insights to help students and parents navigate the admissions process. 🔥 Top Takeaways from This Episode 1️⃣ UMass Amherst is More Than Just a Schoo...

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , I had the great pleasure of speaking with Jim Bock, Vice President and Dean of Admissions at Swarthmore College . Swarthmore is one of the nation’s most prestigious liberal arts colleges , known for its intellectual rigor, close-knit community, and collaborative spirit . This conversation is a must-listen for students and parents navigating the college admissions process! 🔥 Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode: 1️⃣ Swarthmore’s Unique Cu...

🎓In this episode we welcome Amber Caputo, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Iona University. Amber shares valuable insights into Iona’s application review process, academic offerings, and the supportive community that sets Iona apart. Whether you’re a student, parent, or college counselor, this episode is packed with actionable advice and insider tips to help you navigate the college admissions journey. 🌟 Highlights from This Episode : Iona’s Close-Knit Community & Service Opport...

📚Mastering Test Prep & Scholarships with Dr. Shaan Patel from Prep Expert 🎓 In this value-packed episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , I sit down with Dr. Shaan Patel , Founder and CEO of Prep Expert 🧠, to dive deeper into the world of standardized test prep, scholarships, and strategies for success in the digital age! 🎯 💡 Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Navigating the Digital SAT: Dr. Patel shares the latest insights and tips to help students smoothly transition to the...

🎙️ Insider Tips from Stephen Pultz, Assistant VP for Enrollment at the University of San Diego 📚 In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , host John Durante sits down with Stephen Pultz, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment at the University of San Diego (USD), to explore key aspects of the college admissions process, the unique offerings at USD, and expert advice for prospective students and their families. Whether you're a high school student, parent, or college counselor,...

🎙️ How to Win College Scholarships with Monica Matthews 💰 Are you searching for ways to make college more affordable? In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , I sit down with Monica Matthews , scholarship expert and creator of www.how2winscholarships.com to uncover the best strategies for finding and winning scholarships! 🎓✨ 🚀 Top 3 Takeaways from This Episode: 1️⃣ Avoid the Biggest Scholarship Mistakes ❌ – Monica shares the most common missteps students and parents make, from...

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , I had the privilege of speaking with Martha Stolze, Director of Admissions at Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin. 🌟 Known for its innovative liberal arts education, Beloit offers students the chance to grow academically, socially, and personally. Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help guide your college admissions journey. 🎓 🎯 Key Takeaways from This Episode 🌍 Standout...

🎙 In this insightful conversation with Dr. Ramon Blakley, Interim Director of Admissions, University of Texas at Austin, we explore the University of Texas at Austin's approach to admissions, academic offerings, and support for students. Whether you're considering UT Austin or just navigating the college application process, this episode is packed with actionable advice and key takeaways for students and parents alike. 🔑 Some Key Takeaways 1️⃣ Retention Rate and Student Support 🏫 UT Austin boast...

🎧 In this insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast , host John Durante interviews Jared Pierce, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Babson College. This episode is packed with valuable tips for students, parents, and college counselors to better understand Babson’s unique academic offerings, the admissions process, and how to make a standout application. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or looking to explore interdisciplinary opportunities, Jared offers expert advi...