The College Admissions Process Podcast

John Durante

Let's Talk About It

  • 52 minutes 55 seconds
    207. Lehigh University - Bruce Bunnick - Director of Admissions

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    —----------------------

    📚🎓 In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," I had the great pleasure of interviewing Bruce Bunnick, who is the Director of Admissions at Lehigh University. Bruce and I explored their unique academic offerings, holistic application review process, while gaining valuable insights into the vibrant campus life at Lehigh.

    🌟 Some Key Takeaways:

    • Academic Distinctions: Discover Lehigh University's standout academic programs and unique opportunities that set it apart from other institutions. 🏫
    • Extracurricular Experiences: Learn about the diverse extracurricular activities and campus life experiences that await students at Lehigh. 🎉
    • Holistic Application Review: Gain insights into Lehigh's holistic approach to application evaluation, covering academic records, extracurriculars, recommendation letters, and more. 📚
    • Crafting Standout Essays: Get expert advice on crafting standout essays that authentically reflect a student's personality and aspirations. 📝
    • Impactful Recommendation Letters: Understand what makes a recommendation letter truly impactful and how students should approach choosing recommenders. 💌
    • Test-Optional Trend: Explore the test-optional trend and its impact on admission, along with Bruce Bunnick's predictions for the future. 📊
    • Addressing Educational Disparities: Learn how Lehigh considers the variation in available Advanced Placement courses among different high schools. 🎓
    • Support for Students with IEPs: Discover the opportunities Lehigh offers to students that had Individualized Education Plans (IEP) in high school for continued success on campus. 🌈
    • Homeschooling Application Process: Gain insights into the unique aspects of the application process for homeschooled students and the review process from the admissions office. 🏡
    • Bruce's Insights: Explore topics not covered in the questions, as Bruce Bunnick shares additional insights and perspectives. 🤔
    • Top Three Pieces of Advice from Bruce: Wrap up the episode with Bruce's top three pieces of advice for students and parents navigating the college admissions process. 🚀

    Lehigh University - Undergraduate Admissions

    Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links

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    The College Application Process Podcast - Social Media Links

    www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

    13 May 2024, 4:00 am
  • 1 hour 21 minutes
    206. UC Berkeley - Jua Howard - Assistant Director of Admissions

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    —-----------------------

    UC Berkeley Admissions  

    UC Berkeley Virtual Tour  

    UC Berkeley Academic Guide  

    UC Berkeley Campus Life  

    Thriving Initiatives  

    Financial Aid and Scholarships Office  

    Financial Aid Cal-culator (Net Price Calculator)  

    Scholarships  

    Cal Athletics  

    A - G Academic Subject Requirements  

    Personal Insight Questions

    NCAA Website

    6 May 2024, 4:00 am
  • 22 minutes 26 seconds
    205. Marquette University - Inside the Admissions Office: Expert Insights, Tips, and Advice - Mario Walker - Admissions Counselor

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    —---------------------------

    Marquette University - Admissions

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    1 May 2024, 4:00 am
  • 30 minutes 27 seconds
    204 - Jeff Selingo - Higher Education Author & Journalist

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    —--------------------------

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    Jeff Selingo has written about higher education for more than two decades and is a New York Times bestselling author of three books. His latest book, Who Gets In & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, was published in September 2020 and was named among the 100 Notable Books of the year by the New York Times. A regular contributor to The Atlantic, Jeff is a special advisor for innovation and professor of practice at Arizona State University. He also writes a bi-weekly newsletter on all things higher ed called Next, and co-hosts the podcast, FutureU. He lives in Washington, DC with his family.

    Jeff Selingo Home Page

    Link to Jeff's Books

    www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

    29 April 2024, 4:00 am
  • 52 minutes 44 seconds
    203. UCLA - Karly Brockett - Senior Associate Director of Admissions

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    —--------------------------------

    Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links

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    The College Application Process Podcast - Social Media Links

    www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

    UCLA - Admission

    🎙️ In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," we dive into the world of UCLA with the Senior Associate Director, Karly Brockett. Gain valuable insights into UCLA's distinctive features and the nuances of the college application process. 🎙️

    Here is what you can expect to hear from this episode:

    🏫 UCLA's Uniqueness:

    Explore what sets UCLA apart within the University of California system. Karly provides an overview of academic programs, campus culture, and unique offerings that make UCLA a standout institution.

    🔍 Key Components of Application Review:

    Discover the key elements UCLA looks for in the application review process, including insights into building a diverse incoming freshman class.

    🚫 Application Mistakes:

    Karly sheds light on common pitfalls in the application process and offers valuable tips on how applicants can avoid them, making the journey less overwhelming.

    📚 Transcript and GPA Evaluation:

    Understand the significance of transcripts and how UCLA evaluates them. Gain insights into GPA recalculations and the role they play in the overall review process.

    📝 Personal Insight Questions (PIQs):

    Learn about the UC system's Personal Insight Questions, how applicants should approach them, and hear a memorable example that stuck with Karly.

    🌍 In-state vs. Out-of-state Applications:

    Explore the differences in the application process for in-state and out-of-state students, providing clarity for prospective applicants.

    🚫 Test-Free Admissions Policy:

    Understand the UC system's test-free policy and its impact on the application process, shedding light on how applicants are evaluated without standardized test scores.

    🏆 Extracurricular Activities:

    Uncover how extracurricular activities influence the evaluation of an applicant's community contributions, with insights into the variation based on intended courses of study.

    🔄 Transfer Student Considerations:

    Delve into the unique considerations transfer applicants face and discover how they can best prepare for a successful application to the UC system.

    🎓 Top Three Pieces of Advice:

    Karly concludes the episode with her top three pieces of advice for students and parents navigating the college admissions process.

    22 April 2024, 4:00 am
  • 42 minutes 45 seconds
    202. Villanova University - Erica Woods - Senior Associate Director - Villanova University

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    —-------------------

    🎓 In this episode we dive into the world of admissions with Erica Woods, Senior Associate Director in the Office of Undergraduate Admission at Villanova University. Erica shares invaluable insights into what makes Villanova stand out and offers essential advice for prospective students and parents preparing for the college journey. 

    Here are some key takeaways:

    Mission-Driven Education: Discover how Villanova's rich history and mission shape its vibrant community today, setting it apart from other universities. 🏛️

    Fostering Engagement and Collaboration: Learn the secret behind Villanova's impressive 96% retention rate and how it fosters a collaborative and engaging learning environment both inside and outside the classrooms. 🤝

    Application Review Process: Erica walks us through Villanova's application review process, highlighting key components and shedding light on the university's approach to standardized test scores. 🤔

    Beyond Academics: Explore the qualities and experiences that Villanova values in its applicants beyond academic achievements, and discover what tends to stand out in successful applicants. 🌟

    Navigating Application Numbers: With a surge in applications, understand how Villanova determines the right balance of acceptances and rejections, ensuring a diverse and dynamic student body. 📈

    Supporting Student Success: Erica shares insights into the support systems Villanova offers its students, ensuring their continued success on campus, including accommodations for students with diverse needs. 🧑‍🎓

    Listen to this enlightening conversation to gain invaluable advice and insights to help you navigate the college admissions process with confidence! 🎧

    Villanova University - Admissions

    17 April 2024, 4:00 am
  • 49 minutes 39 seconds
    201. Duquesne University - Marisa M. Germinario - Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions

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    —-------------------------

    🎓 In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," we learn about the unique offerings of Duquesne University with Marisa Germinario, the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions. Marisa speaks about everything that Duquesne offers both inside and outside of the classroom, while providing insights on the following and so much more!

    🏛️What Sets Duquesne Apart: Discover what makes Duquesne University stand out among other institutions and what aspects make it attractive to prospective students.

    🌟 Student Life: Learn about the vibrant student life at Duquesne, including activities beyond the classroom and weekend adventures.

    📝 Application Review Process: Marisa walks us through the process of how applications are reviewed at Duquesne, emphasizing key factors considered during evaluation.

    💡Top Tips: Marisa shares her top tips for students and their parents as they go through the college search process.

    Duquesne University: duq.edu

    Admissions: Undergraduate Admissions (duq.edu)

    Scholarships and Affordability: https://www.duq.edu/admission-and-aid/paying-for-school/undergraduate/affordability.php

    Majors: Academic Programs (duq.edu)

    ZeeMee App DU-specific Landing Page: https://colleges.zeemee.com/colleges/duqu/interested

    15 April 2024, 4:00 am
  • 1 hour 8 minutes
    200. The Truth About College Admission (2nd Edition) with Rick Clark - Author, Assistant Vice Provost & Executive Director of Admission at Georgia Tech

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    —----------------------

    In this episode we had the great pleasure of welcoming back Rick Clark who is the co-author of The Truth About College Admission - 2nd Edition and the Asst. Vice Provost & Executive Director of Admission at Georgia Tech. 

    Here are some of the things Rick and I spoke about, along with so much more:

    📘 Overview of "The Truth About College Admission":

    Rick takes us through the inspiration behind the second edition, exploring changes and trends in the dynamic world of college admissions.

    💡 Controlling the Controllables in College Admission Uncertainty:

    Rick delves into factors applicants can control, emphasizing mindfulness amid uncertainties. He sheds light on navigating the college process, focusing on what matters and accepting elements beyond control.

    🏛️ Institutional Priorities & Admissions Goals:

    Rick unravels the intricacies of institutional priorities, explaining how colleges set goals, emphasizing the impact on individual applicants, and shedding light on the evolving landscape of college admissions.

    📚 Holistic Admission & GPA's Role:

    Explore the holistic admission process and the role of GPA in context. Rick provides clarity on how colleges assess students from diverse high schools, considering the nuances of their academic journeys.

    📝 Avoiding Wedges in the College Process:

    Learn from real examples in Clark's book about avoiding family wedges during the college application process. He shares advice on fostering healthy communication and steering clear of potential pitfalls.

    💰 Financial Aid and Need Awareness:

    Rick explains the difference between need-blind and need-aware schools, offering insights into the crucial role financial aid plays in the college admission process.

    📊 Decoding College Rankings:

    Delve into the intricacies of college rankings with Clark, exploring their flaws and how individuals should approach them. Gain valuable perspectives on the often-misleading world of college rankings.

    🏞️ Maximizing College Visits:

    Clark shares key tips from his book on making the most of college visits, emphasizing their importance in determining fit and overall satisfaction with a chosen institution.

    🔍 Admissions Representatives' Perspectives:

    Explore what admissions representatives look for in applicants, understanding the significance of high school context and course offerings in the decision-making process.

    🎓 High School Acceptance Limitations:

    Clark addresses common beliefs about colleges limiting acceptances from specific high schools, providing clarity on this widely debated topic.

    Unasked Questions & Final Insights:

    Clark shares additional insights and reflections, addressing any unasked questions and providing a well-rounded perspective on the college admissions journey.

    🌟 Top 3 Pieces of Advice for College Applicants:

    Discover Clark's top three pieces of advice for students and parents gearing up for the college admissions process.

    This is a must for anyone navigating the college process as we dived into a comprehensive exploration of college admissions realities with Rick Clark.🎙️🎓

    The Truth About College Admission Website

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    10 April 2024, 4:00 am
  • 1 hour 27 seconds
    199. UNC Chapel Hill: Exclusive Insights from Jason McGrath - Associate Provost and Director of Undergraduate Admissions

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    —-----------------------

    UNC Chapel Hill Admissions

    🎙️ In this episode of "The College Admissions Process Podcast," we dive into the heart of UNC Chapel Hill's admissions process with Jason Mc Grath, the Associate Provost and Director of Undergraduate Admissions. Gain valuable insights to navigate the complex world of college applications and understand what makes UNC Chapel Hill stand out.

    UNC Chapel Hill's Uniqueness:

    • 🌟 Explore the unique aspects that define UNC Chapel Hill.
    • 🎓 Learn about offerings inside and outside the classrooms that set the university apart.

    High Retention Rate Secrets:

    • 🤔 Uncover the secrets behind UNC's impressive 97% retention rate.
    • 🏡 Discover what keeps students happy and eager to return each year.

    Qualities Valued in Applicants:

    • 🎯 Understand the specific characteristics UNC values in its applicants.
    • 📚 Gain insights into what sets successful candidates apart.

    Holistic Application Approach:

    • 🔄 Explore the holistic approach to application review at UNC.
    • 📝 Tips for presenting a well-rounded and thorough application.

    Managing Increased Applications:

    • 📈 Navigate the challenge of rising application numbers.
    • 🤷‍♂️ Learn how UNC determines acceptances, waitlists, and denials.

    Out-of-State Admission Impact:

    • 🌍 Understand the impact of out-of-state limitations on the application process.
    • 🚀 Advice for out-of-state applicants to stand out.

    Legacy Considerations:

    • 🏛️ Delve into the role of legacy in the application review process.
    • 🤔 Does being a legacy candidate make a difference?

    Specialized Programs and Schools:

    • 🎨 Explore how application reviews differ for specific programs or schools.
    • 📓 Learn about any unique requirements for certain majors.

    Addressing Varied High School Offerings:

    • 🏫 Navigate the application review process for students from diverse high schools.
    • 📊 How UNC considers different high school offerings.

    Test-Optional Trends:

    • 📚 Explore UNC's test-optional policy and its impact.
    • 📈 Discover the percentage of admitted students who didn't submit test scores.

    Future of Test-Optional Admissions:

    • 🔮 Predictions on the test-optional nature of admissions in the coming years.

    This episode equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate the college admissions process successfully. Gain a deeper understanding of UNC Chapel Hill's unique approach and valuable advice from Jason Mc Grath for a successful college journey. 🎓✨

    8 April 2024, 4:00 am
  • 25 minutes 52 seconds
    198. Saint Peter's University - Inside the Admissions Office: Expert Insights, Tips, and Advice - Mason Traino - Senior Assistant Director of Transfers

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    —-----------------------------

    Saint Peter's University - Admissions

    3 April 2024, 4:00 am
  • 30 minutes 21 seconds
    197. Pepperdine University - Inside the Admissions Office - Gianna Mack - Admission Counselor

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    —-------------------------------

    Pepperdine - Undergraduate Admission

    Academic Advising for AP & IB Courses

    Campus Visits & Tours

    Virtual Application Workshop

    Admission Interviews

    Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links

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    The College Application Process Podcast - Social Media Links

    www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

    1 April 2024, 4:00 am
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