In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel sits down with Arun Alagappan, founder and president of Advantage Testing, one of the most respected names in academic tutoring and test preparation. A Princeton and Harvard Law alum, Arun has spent nearly four decades redefining what tutoring can and should be: an uplifting, empowering experience that fosters both academic mastery and lifelong curiosity.

Arun shares his journey from his very first tutoring session as a teenager to building Advantage Testing into a nationally recognized institution. He reflects on the clarity it took to leave a traditional legal career path for education, the principles that continue to guide his work, and the vital role of empathy, attention, and kindness in effective teaching.

The conversation also explores:

• The origins of Advantage Testing and what inspired Arun to make tutoring his life’s work

• What makes a great tutor beyond test scores and credentials

• Ethics in tutoring, addressing concerns around pressure and fairness

• Managing anxiety in academics and testing with conscious learning strategies

• Equity and access through the Advantage Testing Foundation and university partnerships

• The role of parents in supporting, not pressuring, their children’s learning journey

• What truly drives student success: grit, resilience, intellectual curiosity, and joy in learning

Arun’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that tutoring, when done with integrity and care, is not just about acing a test. It is about equipping young people with the confidence and tools to thrive far beyond the classroom.

Guest: Arun Alagappan – Founder and President of Advantage Testing, educator, thought leader, and advocate for educational equity.

Learn more: admittedly.co/programs 

Follow Admittedly on Instagram and TikTok: @admittedlyco 

Follow Advantage Testing on Instagram: @advantagetesting

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a strategic pause to break down the seismic shifts hitting higher education right now—and what they mean for your application this year. From sweeping funding cuts at top universities, to uncertainty for international students, to new pressures for changes in campus culture, the landscape is changing fast.

Thomas unpacks how these forces intersect with admissions strategy, why legacy students may have an edge once again, and why you still can’t rely on luck or shortcuts. This is the episode to hear if you want to stay ahead of the curve and play this year’s admissions game with eyes wide open.

Key Takeaways:

• Funding Cuts Have Ripple Effects: Multi-million-dollar hits to endowments mean less money for research, professors, and student services. While no one is officially admitting it, full-pay and legacy applicants could benefit as schools seek financial stability.

• International Students Face More Uncertainty: Visa approvals may be shakier, and aid for non-U.S. students could shrink. If you’re applying from abroad, diversify your list globally and take a long-term view toward grad school opportunities.

• “Non-Controversial” Is the New Campus Buzzword: Universities are feeling pressure to avoid volatile environments. Expect closer scrutiny of your online presence.

• This Is Not Carte Blanche: Even with shifts in seat allocation, hyper-selective schools will still reject most applicants. Strategy, rigor, and impact still matter more than ever.

The bottom line? This may be a year of advantage for certain applicants, but the bar for admission remains sky-high. Your best play is to get strategic, stay authentic, and present your story with discipline and clarity.

Are you feeling these changes in your own application plans? Share your thoughts with Thomas directly @admittedlyco on Instagram and TikTok. For deeper guidance, join our free monthly webinars and explore resources at www.admittedly.co.

In this special episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel sits down with Dr. Peggy Burich-Smith, a senior counselor at Admittedly and a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience in independent school leadership. Together, they explore what it really takes to raise grounded, successful students—starting in middle school.

From managing the parent-child dynamic during high-pressure school years to navigating high school admissions with authenticity and strategy, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and heartfelt perspective.

Peggy brings her unmatched insight from decades as a middle school head, director of studies, and college counselor to this candid conversation about early adolescence, parenting, and how to build a strong foundation for the road ahead.

Whether you're a parent of a middle schooler or thinking ahead to high school and college applications, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and expert advice on how to support your child—without losing sight of what matters most.

For more resources and counseling support, visit www.admittedly.co

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel walks through everything students and families need to prepare as the Common App opens on August 1. From how to set up your account to the mistakes students often make in the academic and activities sections, this is a clear, practical guide to starting the application season the right way. 

Key Takeaways:

• Getting Started with the Common App: Why you should create your account early, what to expect when you log in, and the key things to get right from the beginning.

• Academic History & Activities: How to report your coursework and grades accurately, what matters most in the activities section, and common mistakes students make when trying to “stand out.”

• Honors & Awards: What counts as an award, how to present them effectively, and when it’s okay to leave this section blank.

• The Common App Essay: How to choose the right prompt, what colleges are really looking for, and why clarity and self-awareness matter more than gimmicks or polish.

• Optional Sections & Strategy: How to decide whether to use the Additional Info section, and how to align every part of your application with your broader story.

The Common App can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Use this episode as your launchpad—then join us live on August 3, 2025 for Thomas’ free live webinar with a full Common App walkthrough + live Q&A to go even deeper and get your questions answered.

Register here and explore more resources built for this season.

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process: applying early.

Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), and Restrictive Early Action (REA) each offer different opportunities—and different risks. And while the internet might tell you that applying early boosts your chances, the truth is more complicated.

We’ll walk you through what these application types actually mean, how colleges use them strategically, and why those higher admit rates aren’t as simple as they seem. We’ll also talk about when early rounds can hurt your application—and how to decide if applying early is right for you.

We’re in your corner. And as the 2025-2026 admissions cycle heats up, we’ll be here with the clarity you need—every step of the way.

We want to hear from you. What questions do you have about essays, resumes, or building your strategy? Drop us a DM—we’re in this together.

Visit www.admittedly.co for more insights and support.

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel addresses student athletes—and the families supporting them. Whether you're competing at the national level or playing for the love of the game, it’s time to unpack how admissions officers actually view athletics.

Thomas breaks down the value of sports in college admissions, the expectations student athletes must meet, and why athletic ability alone won’t carry you through the process. He offers guidance for both recruited and non-recruited athletes—and reminds listeners that sports are one part of a much bigger admissions picture.

Key Takeaways:

• Athletics Aren’t a Free Pass: No one gets into top schools just for being good at a sport. The strongest athletic applicants have rock-solid academics and clear stories beyond the field.
• Recruited or Not, the Work’s on You: Coaches are building teams, not handing out admissions letters. You need to communicate, self-advocate, and show who you are outside of your sport.
• Go Beyond the Game: Branch out into leadership, service, or mentorship. Coach younger students, join clubs, or connect with causes that matter to you. Being a one-dimensional applicant isn’t enough.
• Think Carefully About That Essay: Injury? Tough loss? Yes, it’s personal—but it’s also common. If you’re writing about sports, make sure your voice and perspective are uniquely yours.
• Whether you're aiming for recruitment or just trying to showcase the full picture of who you are, remember: admissions officers want well-rounded, self-aware students. Sports may be a big part of your life, but they shouldn’t be the only thing that defines you.

Are you balancing sports and academics? Wondering what’s next for your student-athlete journey? DM us your questions on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco.

And don’t forget to visit www.admittedly.co for free resources, webinars, and support.

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application: the Additional Information section. With the word count now reduced from 650 to 300 words, this section is no longer a free-for-all—it requires strategy, clarity, and discipline.

Thomas breaks down what this section is actually for, who should use it, and how to avoid the common mistakes that can hurt your application more than help. He also explains how to think about resumes in the context of your application and how the smartest students use every part of the application to support their overall narrative.

Key Takeaways:

• It’s 300 Words—Use Them Strategically: The Additional Info section is no longer a backup personal statement. It’s for critical context only. Don’t use it to repeat your resume or cram in extra accomplishments—use it to clarify, explain, or add value.

• Framing Matters: Ask yourself—what am I trying to communicate? Does this support my overall application strategy, or distract from it?

• Resumes Are a Separate Tool: Many schools allow uploads in their supplements. Keep it clean, relevant, and under two pages. A well-structured resume can fill in the gaps—but only if it’s thoughtful and well-organized.

• Less Is More: The strongest applications are curated, not crammed. This is your chance to be intentional and show maturity in your self-presentation.

There’s a lot more to discuss when it comes to essays and application strategy—so be sure to subscribe, follow us on TikTok and Instagram @admittedlyco, and check out our free monthly webinars and expert resources.

We want to hear from you. What questions do you have about essays, resumes, or building your strategy? Drop us a DM—we’re in this together.

Visit www.admittedly.co for more insights and support.

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a step back from structure and word count to focus on what matters most when writing your college essay: the story itself. It’s that time of year when the pressure to write “the perfect essay” starts to build—but before you start typing, you need a clear foundation.

This episode is all about helping you find your story, understand what colleges are really looking for, and begin your essay process with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Your Story Is the Only Story That Matters: The Common App essay isn’t a report or a resume. It’s a moment of insight—into you. Don’t chase a prompt or a gimmick. Don’t copy the essays you see online. Start with self-reflection and honesty.
• Don’t Just Tell—Show: One of the biggest mistakes students make is summarizing their growth instead of illustrating it. Let the reader walk through the moment with you. Use specifics. Invite them in.
• Simple Is Powerful: Admissions officers are reading hundreds of essays. If your voice is authentic and clear, it will stand out. Avoid over-complicating your structure or language. Let your story breathe.
• No Trauma Required: The best essays aren’t necessarily dramatic. Many standout essays are grounded in small moments—written with heart, self-awareness, and intention.
• How Do You Find Your Topic? Through deep reflection. We share some of the key questions to ask yourself as you start the process, and real-life examples of students who transformed ordinary experiences into extraordinary essays.

Writing your essay isn’t about finding a magic formula—it’s about getting to the heart of who you are. If you’re just getting started, this episode will help you build a strong foundation for everything that follows.

Have questions about your essay? DM us on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco—we’re here to support you.

Visit www.admittedly.co for more free resources and expert guidance.

You made it through freshman year—now what? In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel tackles the real questions rising sophomores are asking: What should I focus on? How many activities is enough? Do I need APs? Is it too early to think about college?

Whether you're aiming for the top universities, or just want to feel more confident heading into 10th grade, Thomas offers a clear and supportive breakdown of what matters most right now. From extracurricular strategy to GPA and summer planning, this is your roadmap for making sophomore year count—without burning out.

Sophomore year is your time to explore deeply and begin building a foundation that reflects your values, interests, and strengths. You don’t need to do everything—but you do need to start making intentional choices. If you’re overwhelmed, behind, or unsure what to prioritize, this episode gives you a clear place to start.

Have a question or want to share what you’re working on? DM us @admittedlyco on Instagram or TikTok—we’d love to hear from you.

Visit www.admittedly.co for free tools, expert advice, and admissions resources tailored to where you are now.

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel speaks directly to rising seniors and their families. First, congratulations—junior year is done. Now it’s time to look ahead. The next six weeks before the Common App opens are critical. This is when you take everything you’ve done and shape it into a focused, compelling strategy.

Thomas outlines how students should be using this time: revisiting standardized test plans, reflecting on academic interests and potential majors, and identifying the schools and environments that truly fit. He emphasizes the importance of deeper research, from courses to campus culture, and how these insights should inform your application narrative.

• Start With Testing: ACT and SAT scores are becoming more important. Decide now if you need to retake your test, and explore free resources, tutoring, or study groups to help you succeed.

• Build Your College Framework: Work backward—think about your intended major, then identify the right-fit schools. Research deeply and critically: course offerings, campus culture, and opportunities for involvement.

• Strategize for Essays: Don’t write yet, but start reviewing last year’s supplemental essay prompts to understand what different schools value. Shape your approach based on what each school is actually looking for.

• Summer Isn’t Just for Applications: Highly selective schools expect you to be engaged. Volunteer, get a job, read, or explore something that moves you forward. This is your final summer—use it well.

• Advice for Parents: Support your student, but give them room to process. If your child doesn’t want to share their essay, that’s okay—find a third-party expert to help with feedback.

• Get Ahead on the Common App: Create your account and start basic data entry. Getting organized now will save stress later.

You don’t need to have everything figured out today—but you do need to start moving with purpose. Thoughtful planning now can make the difference between a chaotic senior year and a strategic, confident one.

Where are you in the process? We’d love to hear from you—DM us on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco with your questions or concerns.

Visit www.admittedly.co for free resources, tools, and expert support to help you stay on track.