🎙 Episode: Inside Michigan State Admissions with Larry Alterman

In this episode, host Dr. John Durante welcomes back Larry Alterman, Assistant Director and Manager of East Coast Recruitment at Michigan State University (MSU). Larry gives an insider’s look at what’s new on campus and shares how students can shine in MSU’s holistic review process. 🌟

Key Highlights & Takeaways:

• 🏫 What’s New at MSU: Explore major campus developments including a massive STEM teaching & research building, a new Multicultural Center, and a 293,000-square-foot fitness & wellness center opening this May.
• 🤝 The Philosophy of Support: MSU is serious about student success—free math tutoring for engineering students five nights a week, plus dedicated writing and mental health centers.
• 📊 Demystifying Institutional Priorities: Learn how MSU manages a freshman class of 9,300–9,600 students and hear the truth about admit rates—over 75% of colleges admit 50%+ of applicants.
• 📝 Inside the Holistic Review: Admissions counselors are advocates looking for reasons to admit you. Larry shares what he notices as a first reader and why standout “hooks” in essays or activities matter.
• ⚠️ Senior Year Counts: Senior-year rigor is critical—don’t let “senioritis” hurt your application during second-level reviews.
• 💡 Mastering the Common App: Make the most of the often-overlooked Additional Comments box to provide context for grade dips or unique circumstances.
• 🧪 Test Optional Reality: MSU remains test-optional. Larry explains why grades and course rigor often matter more than test scores.

Larry’s Top 3 Tips:

1. 📒 Stay Organized: Track your journey in a notebook.
2. 🔍 Do Primary Research: Go straight to official university websites.
3. 🎉 Have Fun: College prep is also a time for bonding with family—enjoy it!

Resources Mentioned:

• (https://msu.edu) Michigan State University Official Website (https://msu.edu)

• (https://www.nacacattend.org/fairs) NACAC College Fairs (https://www.nacacattend.org/fairs)

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