John Durante, Ed.D. – Guiding Families Through the College Admissions Process

For many families, the college admissions process can feel overwhelming, confusing, and stressful. My mission is to simplify the journey—helping students and families move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

As principal of Syosset High School since 2010, I’ve guided thousands of students and families through the challenges of high school and beyond. Inspired by supporting my own daughters through the process, I launched The College Admissions Process Podcast, featuring over 300 episodes and reaching 15,000–20,000 downloads per month. Families nationwide trust it for in-depth conversations with the admissions professionals who shape incoming classes.

Building on these insights, I authored Straight From the Admissions Office, a book distilling actionable advice from admissions leaders—offering families clarity on what really matters when preparing for college.

What My Presentation Offers

My customizable presentations (including Q&A) are designed to help families:

  • 🎯 Simplify the Admissions Journey – Break down the process into clear, actionable steps.

  • 🎯 Gain Insider Perspectives – Learn directly from admissions professionals and hear what they truly look for in applicants.

  • 🎯 Receive Tailored Guidance – Presentations are customized for your group, school, or community to meet your specific needs.

Delivered virtually or in person, sessions combine the practical experience of a high school principal with insider insights from admissions professionals—empowering families to make informed decisions.

 

Why Work With Me

  • Decades of Experience – Years of working with students, families, and educators on high school and college preparation.

  • Proven Reach – Podcast and book insights gathered from hundreds of admissions interviews.

  • Actionable Takeaways – Families leave with tools and strategies they can apply immediately.

  • Interactive & Engaging – Time for Q&A ensures your group gets answers to the questions that matter most.

Who Will Benefit

  • Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs)

  • High school or middle school student groups

  • Community organizations supporting families and students

  • Any group looking to simplify the college admissions journey

Ready to Book a Presentation?

📩 Email me at john@collegeadmissionstalk.com to schedule a virtual or in-person session for your group.

"Families leave feeling more confident, informed, and empowered—ready to tackle the college admissions process without fear or confusion."

What Attendees Are Saying About John Durante’s Presentations

Insightful, Data-Driven, and Actionable
"John’s presentation provided practical, real-world guidance straight from admissions experts. The use of actual audio clips from admissions officers made the information come alive and clarified what colleges are really looking for."

Comprehensive and Relatable
"The presentation covered everything—from the Common Data Set and school profiles to essays, letters of recommendation, and strategies for reach, target, and likely schools. John’s flow of information was extremely clear and easy to follow."

Engaging and Memorable
"I loved the audio clips and examples from the podcast episodes. Hearing admissions reps speak directly helped reinforce the points and kept the session engaging. The clips were just the right number and perfectly timed."

Helpful for Parents, Students, and Counselors Alike
"John’s explanations of institutional priorities, what is in a student’s control, and how to align personal statements, transcripts, and recommendation letters were invaluable. Even experienced counselors found the evidence-backed insights useful for guiding students."

Practical Advice on Essays and Applications
"The essay writing section was excellent—keeping it about YOU, avoiding overused topics, and tailoring supplemental essays to each school’s mission. John made the process simple, actionable, and approachable."

High-Quality, Trustworthy, and Continuously Updated
"The information is accurate, clear, and relevant. John’s podcasts and presentations provide a wealth of insights, and he keeps everything updated as admissions trends and institutional priorities change."

Unique Approach and Personal Stories
"John blends real-world anecdotes, analytical data, and firsthand admissions perspectives in a way that makes the college admissions process understandable and actionable for everyone."

Audience-Focused and Interactive
"The slides were simple, clear, and easy to follow. The presentation balanced information for both newcomers and experienced counselors, with helpful resources like links to podcast episodes, QR codes, and actionable takeaways."

Highly Recommended
"John’s work is incredibly valuable. His presentations are a must for families starting the college admissions journey and for counselors seeking credible, practical guidance. The combination of personal insight, real data, and direct input from admissions professionals sets his work apart."

Receiving the John B. Muir Award at the NACAC Conference in Columbus, Ohio, for leveraging media to make an impact in college admissions.