👉 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.

🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.

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with Dr. Shaan Patel (CEO & Founder of Prep Expert)

In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO and Founder of Prep Expert and title sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. A board-certified dermatologist and Shark Tank success story (Mark Cuban deal), Dr. Patel breaks down what families must understand right now about the Digital SAT, the PSAT, and how high test scores can unlock life-changing scholarships.

🧠 Why the Adaptive Format Matters

The Digital SAT adjusts by module. Strong performance on Module 1 is essential to unlock the harder Module 2—the only path to top scores.

🏆 PSAT = Scholarship Opportunity

The PSAT isn’t “just practice.” Top 1% scorers can earn National Merit recognition, leading to full or half-tuition scholarships at 100+ colleges.

📈 Testing Is Making a Comeback

With many colleges—including Ivies and major state schools—reinstating test requirements, high scores matter more than ever for admissions and merit aid, especially amid grade inflation.

📝 Use Scratch Paper—Always

Writing out work boosts accuracy and frees mental bandwidth, even on a digital exam.

✍️ Writing Section Red Flags

Passive constructions (“being,” “is why,” “is because”) are almost never correct.

➗ Hard Math Tip

When stuck between two answers, the “uglier” option (square roots, fractions) is often right on higher-level questions.

📚 Beat the Clock the Right Way

Students lose time debating answers—not reading. Elimination strategies cut decision time dramatically.

1️⃣ Start prep in 9th or 10th grade—especially to be ready for the 11th-grade PSAT

2️⃣ Practice with the College Board Blue Book App

3️⃣ Pair strong content with proven strategies to reach the 99th percentile

4️⃣ Explore Prep Expert’s courses or 1:1 college counseling support

www.PrepExpert.com

College Board Blue Book

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Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications

If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:

🔗...

🎓 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

1. Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, about an hour north of Denver and at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
2. A land-grant university known for agriculture, engineering, business, natural resources, and liberal arts.
3. Mission-driven with a strong focus on access, service, and real-world impact.

📊 Admissions & Enrollment Highlights

1. By state mandate, approximately 55% in-state and 45% out-of-state enrollment.
2. Nearly 40,000 applications for an incoming class of about 5,550 students.
3. Accessible admit rate of approximately 87–88%.
4. No formal waitlist; some applications may be held to review senior-year grades.

🧠 Holistic Review Process

1. Academic performance and course rigor matter most—but context matters.
2. Admissions officers consider each student’s story and circumstances.
3. Test-optional and effectively test-free: scores are not used for admission, scholarships, financial aid, or placement.
4. Essays are encouraged to be authentic and reflective, not formulaic.

💰 Affordability & Transparency

1. Applications are free for Colorado residents.
2. Families are encouraged to use the Net Price Calculator and plan for all four years.
3. Scholarship opportunities and criteria are clearly outlined on CSU’s website.

💡 Advice for Applicants

1. Be yourself—authenticity matters.
2. Finish senior year strong; grades still count.
3. Visit a variety of campuses to understand fit.
4. Ask questions—admissions offices are there to help.

Colorado State University - Admissions

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👉 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.

🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at...

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante sits down with Megan Starling, Director of Admission at Rhodes College 🎓 — a nationally recognized liberal arts institution located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. Known for its tight-knit community and powerful blend of classroom learning and real-world experience, Rhodes offers students a unique place to learn, grow, and thrive.

Whether you're a student building your college list or a parent navigating the admissions maze, this episode provides must-hear insights into how Rhodes reviews applications, what they look for in an ideal candidate, and how students can take full advantage of what the school — and city — has to offer. 🌟

✅ 1. Memphis Matters: Location as a Learning Laboratory 🏙️

Rhodes isn’t just located in Memphis — it’s deeply connected to it. Megan shares how the college’s partnerships with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, FedEx, and Memphis nonprofits offer students transformative research, internship, and service opportunities across disciplines — from biology to business to urban studies.

“Being in a major metropolitan city allows our students to walk to meaningful experiences that build their resumes while they’re still undergrads.”

✅ 2. Holistic Admissions: What Really Counts at Rhodes 📝

Rhodes has long used a holistic approach to application review. Megan emphasizes that academic rigor is key — but how they define that rigor depends entirely on the context of each high school. No formulas. No rigid GPA cutoffs.

“We really look at the transcript to understand what was available to the student and what they chose to take advantage of. That’s how we define rigor.”

📌 Rhodes does not recalculate GPA, and their team carefully evaluates each course — including AP, IB, dual enrollment, and honors — within a student’s unique academic environment.

✅ 3. Authenticity Over AI: The Role of Essays & Recommendations 💬🤖

With the rise of AI tools, Megan doubles down on the importance of authentic storytelling in personal statements and supplements.

“The students who really stand out are those who write in their own voice — who make me feel like I know them by the end of their essay.”

She also shares tips for recommendation letters (hint: choose someone who truly knows you), and common pitfalls to avoid in writing.

🎓 Quick Facts About Rhodes College:

1. 📍 Located in Memphis, TN, a cultural and economic hub
2. 🧠 Over 50 majors, with standout programs in neuroscience, business, biology, and international studies
3. 💼 80%+ of students complete internships or research
4. 🧬 Direct partnerships with institutions like St. Jude
5. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Average class size: ~14 students
6. 💰 Generous merit-based scholarships and need-based aid
7. 🤝 Test-optional since 2021 and staying that way

Rhodes College Admissions

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👉 This...

🎙️ In this insightful episode, we welcome back the University of Oregon to the podcast! Joelle Rankins Goodwin provides an inside look at what’s new on campus since their last feature in 2023, what joining the Big Ten means beyond athletics, and how students can strategically navigate the UO admissions process. Whether you're applying this fall or just beginning your college research, this episode is packed with relevant, timely, and honest insights for all students and families 🧠💡.

Joelle shares that UO’s admissions review is contextual and holistic, focusing not just on academics, but also personal achievements, essays, and extracurricular involvement. No GPA cutoff, no test score mandate — just a thoughtful review of each student’s story.

📝 Pro Tip: Essays and letters of recommendation help humanize the application — authenticity matters more than perfection!

From the prestigious Clark Honors College (small-class liberal arts experience within a major research university) to standout programs like Lundquist College of Business and the School of Journalism and Communication, UO offers rigorous, hands-on opportunities across disciplines.

🌍 Fun Fact: The School of Journalism at UO is one of the oldest and most respected in the country!

While fans are buzzing about Oregon Ducks football, Joelle explains how Big Ten membership expands academic collaboration and so much more!

🧬 Translation: More cross-campus research, academic partnerships, and increased visibility on the national stage.

1. 📍 Location: Eugene, Oregon – a vibrant college town with access to coastlines, mountains, and forests 🌲
2. 👩‍🎓 Undergrad Enrollment: ~20,000 students
3. 🏅 Test-Optional: Yes – for all applicants
4. 💼 Strong Programs: Business, Journalism, Environmental Studies, Education, Architecture, and more
5. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Student Life: Over 300 student organizations, robust support for first-gen and out-of-state students, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion
6. 🌟 Mascot: The Oregon Duck 🦆

Scholarship Websites mentioned in the podcast episode:

fastweb.com

scholarships.com

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👉 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.

🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.

📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit

🎙️ Inside Sewanee Admissions – What You Need to Know!

📍 Guest: Sarah Butler, Assistant Dean of Admission, Office of Admission & Financial Aid

Are you considering a liberal arts college that combines academic rigor, strong community, and stunning natural surroundings? 🌲📚 Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Sarah Butler from Sewanee: The University of the South, where we unpack what makes Sewanee unique — and what students and families need to know before applying.

🔑 TOP 3 TAKEAWAYS for Your College Research Journey:

1️⃣ 🎓 A Place for the Intellectually Curious

Sewanee is a liberal arts college with a strong academic foundation, a low student-faculty ratio, and a faculty that is both deeply invested and highly accessible. Students benefit from:

1. Small classes and rigorous discussions 💬
2. Funded research, internships, and travel opportunities through the Sewanee Pledge ✈️💼
3. A distinctive academic calendar and immersive learning experiences

Sarah explains how Sewanee supports students who are “intellectually curious and community-minded” and thrive when fully engaged both in and out of the classroom.

2️⃣ 📄 Inside the Holistic Admissions Process

From GPA context to essays, Sarah walks us through how applications are reviewed at Sewanee, sharing:

1. They do not recalculate GPAs but evaluate them in the student’s academic context 📊
2. Honors, AP, IB, and dual enrollment courses are recognized for their rigor
3. Test-optional policy is truly optional, and applicants are not penalized for withholding scores 📝

Sarah also offers great advice on how to decide whether to submit SAT/ACT scores based on whether they add value to your application.

3️⃣ 🤝 Demonstrated Interest & Early Application Insights

While Sewanee does track demonstrated interest, Sarah emphasizes it’s not about checking boxes — it's about building a genuine relationship with the school. She encourages:

1. Visiting campus if possible 🚗
2. Joining virtual info sessions and regional events 💻🌎
3. Connecting with current students or your admission counselor

For students applying Early Decision or Early Action, Sarah clarifies the differences and explains how applying early can benefit students who are confident in their choice.

✨ BONUS ADVICE:

At the end of the episode, Sarah shares three must-hear tips for students and families navigating the college process — advice grounded in empathy, experience, and a deep understanding of student success.

🌐 CLICK HERE to learn more about Sewanee and start exploring.

Sewanee Admissions & Aid admission.sewanee.edu

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👉 This episode is brought to you...

🎓 In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast we welcome back the College of Charleston 🌴, this time featuring Ashley Holdridge, Regional Assistant Director of Admissions. Building on the college’s original appearance in Episode 195 📚, 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 🗺️.

Ashley shares a compelling overview of academic life at Charleston, where a liberal arts foundation 🧠 meets career-ready pathways 💼 in high-impact programs like:

1. Marine biology 🌊
2. Business 💰
3. Education 🧑‍🏫
4. The arts 🎭

From internships at the Charleston Music Hall 🎶 to hands-on field research on the water 🐚, real-world experiences are deeply woven into the student journey.

🔍 In this episode, we explore:

1. The holistic admissions review process 🔄, including how applications are evaluated through two key lenses 👓: academic performance and everything beyond the classroom
2. How Charleston uses a contextual review 🔎, understanding students based on what was available to them in their high school environment
3. Why depth > breadth 📈 when it comes to extracurricular activities — it’s not about doing it all, but doing it well
4. How a thoughtful and reflective personal statement ✍️ can show resilience, growth, or key turning points
5. A host of student support services 🤝, such as:

The First Year Experience Program 🎉

Peer mentoring 👥

The popular Majors and Minors Fair 📖

Advice on navigating the waitlist ⏳ and how to connect with your regional admissions counselor 📬 (hint: she says go for it!)

💡 Ashley also encourages students to ask deeper questions 🤔 when researching schools — ones that focus on values, vibe, and fit ❤️, not just rankings or prestige.

✨ Don’t miss Ashley’s top 3 pieces of advice for students and families just starting the college journey:

1. Visit campuses when possible 🧭
2. Learn how to manage your “free time” in college (spoiler: it’s not always free! ⏰)
3. Show yourself and others grace throughout the process 💗

Whether you’re considering the College of Charleston 🌟 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.

🎙️In this return visit to the podcast, Kelli Nienstedt — formerly in the admissions office and now Assistant Director of Student Activities — brings a unique dual perspective on what makes the Marist University experience stand out 🦊. Whether you’re applying to college, supporting your student, or guiding others through the process, this episode is filled with helpful insights, student support strategies, and admissions tips you won’t want to miss.

1. 🎯 What Makes a Strong Marist Applicant

Kelli shares what stood out during her time on the admissions committee:

✅ Academic rigor within reason (don’t overload on APs if it hurts your performance)

✅ Authentic involvement in extracurriculars and leadership

✅ A clear sense of fit with Marist’s values and campus culture

2. 🧠 Support for Neurodiverse Students and Those with IEPs/504 Plans

Marist offers two major support options:

1. The Office of Accommodations and Accessibility, providing extended time on tests, alternative testing locations, and note-taking support — all included with tuition.
2. The Learning Support Program, which offers weekly sessions with a learning specialist for a separate fee.

Plus, academic support includes:

📚 Writing & Tutoring Centers

🗓️ One-on-one advising

💼 Internship coordinators by major

3. 🌍 A Truly Global (and Fun!) Campus Experience

Marist’s campus in Florence, Italy 🇮🇹 is the most popular study abroad destination — but students also explore Ireland, London, and Asia through the ASAP program.

And when they’re not studying abroad, students enjoy:

🎭 Broadway trips, 🏟️ Yankees and NFL games, 🎬 movie nights, 🐐 goat yoga, casino nights, and more — thanks to 120+ student clubs and the Student Activities Office.

1. Marist recentlytransitioned from college to university in 2025 — a major milestone
2. The Focus Program supports undecided students with exploratory coursework and alumni interviews
3. Practical advice on navigating test-optional admissions and making the right submission decision

Kelli’s Top 3 Tips for Students & Families:

1. Visit campuses and picture yourself there 👀
2. Explore life beyond academics 🎨
3. Enjoy the process — it can be fun! 🎉

📍 About Marist University

Located along the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, NY 🌉, Marist offers a strong liberal arts foundation paired with professional preparation across disciplines — all in a welcoming, tight-knit community with global reach.

🔗 CLICK HERE to learn more about Marist University

Marist Student Involvement

QuestBridge Home Page

QuestBridge National College Match

QuestBridge Resource Library

Feel free to reach out to Taylor with any questions at: taylor.admissions@nd.edu

In this episode, Dr. John Dante speaks with Taylor Erickson, a QuestBridge Scholar alumna and admissions counselor at the University of Notre Dame, about navigating the QuestBridge National College Match. Taylor shares her personal journey from applying as a high-achieving, low-income student to working in admissions, offering practical insights for students, families, and counselors. Learn how to stand out in applications, craft authentic essays, secure strong recommendations, and stay organized through this competitive process.

Understanding QuestBridge

• 🌟 Connects high-achieving, low-income students with early admission and full four-year scholarships at top U.S. colleges.
• 💰 Scholarships cover tuition, housing, meals, and more — valued at over $325,000.
• 🏫 Students rank colleges for the Match, but unmatched finalists can still apply to partner schools via regular decision.

Application Process & Timeline 📅

1. 📝 College Match Application: September submission.
2. 🏆 Rank Colleges: Up to 15 schools.
3. 📄 Finalist Requirements: Submit supplemental materials by early November.
4. 🎉 Match Notification: December.

Taylor’s Personal Journey 💡

• Taylor pursued QuestBridge to afford college and was drawn to Notre Dame after a pivotal premed-focused event.
• Key lesson: admissions isn’t just about four years; it’s about joining a lifelong community.

Thriving as a QuestBridge Student 🌱

• 📚 Academic Excellence: Challenge yourself with rigorous coursework and demonstrate curiosity.
• 🙋 Ask for Help: College is different from high school — seek guidance from professors and peers.
• 🤝 Support Network: QuestBridge Scholars Network chapters provide mentorship, community, and resources.

Application Tips 📝

• 📊 Stay Organized: Use a spreadsheet for essays, recommendations, and supplemental materials.
• ✍️ Be Authentic: Essays should highlight a meaningful chapter of your life.
• 🖨️ The “Printer Test”: Would someone who knows you recognize your essay without your name?
• 🔍...