In this episode, host Michelle McAnaney talks with Sean Dermody, a junior at the University of Virginia and current campus tour guide, about how families can get the most out of college tours. With a longtime personal connection (dating back to when Sean was 5 months old!) conversation is both warm and informative, offering valuable behind-the-scenes insights into what college tours are really like and how to approach them strategically.

Sean shares his experience becoming a UVA tour guide, how he personalizes his tours and how students and parents can ask meaningful questions to get past the scripted basics. He also talks about lingering after the tour, the most and least helpful questions he’s received, and how families can connect with the right tour guide to learn about specific interests.

The episode wraps with a spotlight on UVA, plus a reminder that any time is a good time to take a tour—summer included—and sign up info for The College Spy’s Summer Application Bootcamp.

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College Spotlight

University of Virginia

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Episode Highlights

1:42 Meet Sean Dermody - the funny story about how Michelle and Sean know each other

8:43 The worst part of UVA (spoiler: finding an open spot at the gym!)

11:44 The best questions Sean has been asked on a tour12:55 Parents + tours

18:40 How to customize your tour to fit your student's interest

19:20 Sean's experience of working with The College Spy to build a list & work on his application

21:21 A great essay tip to bring the reader along with you (celebrating Sean's 5 minute mile!)

22:22 The best way to jumpstart your applications this summer

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Links & Contact

Register for The College Spy Bootcamp sessions this August: https://thecollegespy.com/coursesandcamps/the-college-spy-boot-camp

Learn more about The College Spy and the admissions advisory services offered by Michelle and her team: https://thecollegespy.com/

Contact Michelle McAnaney at [email protected]