Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

Question of the week: Looking for a good parenting book recommendation? Raising teenagers is not easy, and it can leave us wondering what the "right way" to parent is if we want to raise resilient, independent young adults.

Have a question you'd like answered? Reach out to us on social media @admittedlypodcast or send us an email at [email protected]

Our host Thomas Caleel gives his top book recommendation for any parent looking to help their child find success in the college application process and beyond.

Check out "How To Raise an Adult" by Julie Lythcott-Haims. You can grab your copy HERE.

About Thomas Caleel

Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants.

Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

Fostering Intellectual Curiosity: A Conversation with Educator, Matt Gainsley

In this episode, your host, Thomas Caleel, sits down with his long-time friend and esteemed educator, Matt Gainsley. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Matt has been inspiring and stimulating intellectual curiosity in students for more than two decades. Join us as we explore the importance of intellectual curiosity, the evolving dynamics in education, and the impact of parental involvement, and why a college degree doesn't necessarily define who you are.

Want to be a guest? Send us an email at [email protected] to apply!

Key Points:

• The importance of intellectual curiosity in the learning process is the primary focus of this episode.
• Thomas and Matt discuss the shifting dynamics in education, where parents, students, and schools interact in unique ways today.
• Matt shares his personal journey into teaching, and how when he started college he didn't necessarily think he was going to end up in education.
• Matt reflects on the changing teacher-student relationships and emphasizes the need for students to take responsibility for their own learning.
• Parents' role in supporting their children's education is vital, but there should be a balance between involvement and allowing the child to grow independently.
• The frenzy around college admissions and early childhood education is discussed, with Matt offering valuable insights on achievement and finding the right school.
• The concept of a "good school" is explored, highlighting the importance of a school that works best for an individual's needs and goals.
• How Matt 'walks the walk' by teaching a class on the "History of Hip Hop" something he is deeply passionate about.
• Why universities now recognize the value of depth of involvement and passion in applicants.
• Encourages students to pursue their passions, even if it means deviating from the conventional path.
• Willingness to embrace interests fosters deeper connections with fellow humans and enriches lives.

Parents, students, and educators alike can gain valuable lessons from this conversation on how to navigate the changing landscape of education and support the growth of young minds.

About Thomas

Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants.

Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this episode, host Thomas Caleel discusses the pros and cons of attending college. In response to many messages and comments from listeners saying "college is a waste of time" we encourage you to sit back and think about your own goals and abilities and make an educated decision on what is best for you. And if college is the answer, well, you are in the right place.

Have your own question you'd like answered? Email us at [email protected] or send us a DM on instagram @admittedlypodcast.

Key Points

• College may not be for everyone and that is okay.
• We need to respect everyone's decisions and life paths, there is no right answer
• Alternative paths to a lucrative career include the military, trade school, community college, and internships.
• College opens up opportunities by teaching you how to learn, connecting you to new people, and exposing you to new career paths that you may not be aware of.

About Thomas

Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants.

Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this episode, our host Thomas Caleel is diving into some common questions about college admissions and applications this time of year.

Want to submit a question? Send us a DM on Instagram @admittedlypodcast or email us at [email protected]

Question 1: What SAT or ACT score do I need?

Standardized testing requirements have evolved, especially after COVID. Many schools now consider a holistic approach to admissions, seeking to increase diversity and offer opportunities for students to present themselves in the best light. For some, taking the test may help bolster their academics, while for others, it could demonstrate their capabilities during challenging times.

There's no specific score requirement for all schools. Look at the schools you're interested in and check their admissions statistics to understand their average LSAT and ACT scores. Be realistic about where you stand academically and what the data show for each school.

Question 2: What are Legacy Admissions?

Legacy admissions refer to the practice of considering applicants who have family members, like parents or siblings, who attended the same school. While some institutions still consider legacy status, many are moving away from it, focusing on merit and diversity instead. There are excellent schools that don't factor in legacy, so consider your options carefully.

Question 3: What should I write about in my Common App essay?

When crafting your Common App essay, avoid clichés and dig deep to find your unique voice. Show the admissions committee your strategy and what you want to convey about yourself. Avoid reading too many sample essays, as it can influence your writing and prevent you from standing out. Tell your own story, embrace your hardships, and be authentic.

Question 4: Should I disclose my learning accommodations on my application?

Yes, it's advisable to disclose any learning challenges or accommodations you have received in your application. Colleges want to create a welcoming environment for all students, and sharing this information can provide context to your achievements and challenges.

Question 5: How can I pick a major?

Selecting a major doesn't mean deciding your lifelong career. Think about the classes you excel in and enjoy the most. Consider your passions and what subjects you want to explore further. Research majors at your desired schools and find a good fit that aligns with your interests.

About Thomas Caleel

Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants.

Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this week's episode, we tackle an important question from a student in Colorado who is concerned about their final semester grades during their junior year. The student worries that these grades may negatively impact their chances of getting into their dream school. Thomas addresses this issue with valuable insights and advice for both current and rising juniors.

Have a question? DM us on social media @admittedlypodcast or email [email protected] for a chance to have it answered on the show.

Key Points

• Grades in junior year are incredibly important for your college application, but there are some things you can do to help.
• Provide context in the additional information section if there were mitigating circumstances affecting grades.
• Avoid using excuses like "teacher didn't like me" and take responsibility for learning.
• Communicate respectfully with teachers to inquire about grades or potential extra credit opportunities.
• Mitigate the impact of bad grades by excelling in related sections of standardized tests.
• Craft a compelling narrative in the additional information essay to explain the anomaly in grades and demonstrate growth.

About Thomas Caleel

Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants.

Make sure to follow @admittedlypodcast on instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for important updates and subscriber only content.

In this engaging episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Sam Hassell, a fellow admissions professional with a fascinating background in research and academia. Throughout the conversation, Sam and Thomas share valuable insights and strategies for students navigating the college admissions process.

Want to be an expert guest on an Admittedly Podcast episode? Apply HERE

Key Points

• Crafting a focused and compelling narrative is essential in the college admissions process.
• Parallels can be drawn between research storytelling in academia and constructing an admissions story.
• Understanding human behavior and how evaluators perceive applicants is crucial.
• Avoid gratuitous displays of privilege and ensure experiences are conveyed meaningfully.
• Starting early in the admissions process allows for more time to build a strong resume and narrative.
• For late-starting students, creativity and abstraction are necessary to construct a compelling narrative from existing experiences.
• Strategy plays a vital role in selecting the right school and effectively communicating with it.
• Depth and coherence in presenting experiences and achievements are favored over breadth.
• Personal growth and triumph over adversity make for impactful narratives.
• Best way to demonstrate interest for a particular University
• Choosing summer activities that will benefit your college application
• Navigating cost and the best way to receive a merit scholarship

About Sam Hassell

Sam Hassell graduated from the University of Southern California and is a published research scientist, having spent four years in psychology and neuroscience research at Columbia University. Building upon his experiences in research and academia—as well as over a decade in educational services—Sam spearheaded the Great Minds Advising program, a premium college consulting service at Westchester Prep, where he is also currently an owner. His college advising team leverages cutting-edge strategy and insight into the college review process while helping students intricately craft the intellectual depth, niches, and admissions stories that set them apart at even the most elite colleges. Join the Great Minds Advising mailing list at WestchesterPrep.com and find them on instagram @greatmindsadvising

About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants.

Follow Admittedly on social media TikTok: @admittedlypodcast Instagram: @admittedlypodcast

In this episode, host Thomas Caleel addresses an important listener question about taking a gap year. Have a question? Send us an email at [email protected] or DM us on Instagram @admittedlypodcast with your question you'd like answered on the podcast.

Today's question, coming from a student in New York, asks how to determine if a gap year is the right choice and if it will impact the admissions process.

Key Points

• Gap year: Typically more common in UK countries, less common in the US
• Key question: Why are you considering a gap year?
• Overwhelm isn't a strong reason; stress will persist in different forms
• Meaningful reasons: Research or work opportunities with significant impact
• Weighing pros and cons: Consider the benefits and growth potential
• Timing: Depends on the individual student
• Applying senior year and requesting a deferral can be advantageous
• Approach universities with a well-explained request for a gap year
• Many schools may be sympathetic and accommodate a deferral request

Stay connected by subscribing to our email list, and share your thoughts and questions with Thomas. Be part of the ongoing exploration of student experiences and college admissions as we head into another busy admissions season. Thanks for being here!

Season 2 Premiere: This episode highlights the upcoming release of the Common App for university applications. Thomas urges students to pause before writing supplemental essays, as they might change due to the recent affirmative action ruling and stresses the significance of personalizing applications to align with a school's offerings and culture.

Additionally, this episode provides valuable advice for students, emphasizing the importance of fully engaging in summer activities and making the most of internship, job, or research opportunities. Thomas encourages students to maintain records of their experiences and consider requesting informal letters of recommendation. He also offers guidance on using the recommender feature in the Common App strategically and provides insights on dealing with the dilemma of disliking summer activities. The episode concludes by briefly addressing the needs of rising eighth graders applying to prep schools and MBA candidates, advising early preparation and thorough research.

Want to submit a question for Q&A? DM Admittedly on Instagram @admittedlypodcast

Episode Highlights:

• Advice for summer activities, emphasizing engagement and record-keeping
• Extracting valuable lessons from disliked summer activities
• Leveraging relationships for informal letters of recommendation
• Strategic use of the Common App's recommender feature
• Caution in writing supplemental essays before changes are announced
• Personalizing applications by aligning with a school's offerings and culture
• Early action and early decision strategies for high school seniors
• Deep research and personal reflection for the best application strategy
• Advice for rising eighth graders applying to prep schools
• Preparing for MBA program applications, including exam and portfolio preparation

About Thomas Thomas is a parent and alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was director of admissions and financial aid at Wharton School. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to create the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities, he works with diverse and underserved communities to help them become successful college students. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for parents and applicants.

Follow Admittedly on social media TikTok: @admittedlypodcast Instagram: @admittedlypodcast

Episode Overview: In this special "Best of" episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Natasha presents some of the most memorable clips from Season One. Join Thomas, an expert in college admissions, as he shares valuable insights on extracurricular activities and summer planning. Thomas offers guidance on standing out, the value of work experience, sports considerations, the importance of depth in activities, and making the most of summer vacations. JOIN our mailing list for important updates and special bonus features.

Episode Highlights:

1. Episode 4- Finding the Right Activities to Stand Out: Thomas acknowledges the stress surrounding the quest for the best extracurricular activities. He emphasizes the need to avoid blindly following trends and seeking out superficial uniqueness. Instead, he encourages students to focus on personal growth and meaningful engagement.

2. Episode 4- Balancing Work and Extracurriculars: Thomas highlights the importance of understanding individual circumstances when it comes to balancing work and extracurricular activities. He explains how universities now recognize the value of work experience and how it can shape an applicant's character and development.

3. Episode 4- Sports Considerations for College Admissions: Thomas delves into the hard truth about high school sports and their impact on college admissions. He urges students to critically evaluate their athletic abilities and potential for recruitment. While sports teach valuable life lessons, he encourages students to consider other activities that can truly set them apart in a competitive applicant pool.

4. Episode 4- Depth vs. Breadth in Activities: Thomas discusses the significance of depth in activities when building an admission strategy. He advises students to align their activities with their intended majors or areas of interest. Rather than engaging in a wide range of activities, students should seek depth and meaning in their chosen pursuits.

5. Episode 6- Making the Most of Summer Breaks: Thomas stresses the importance of using summer breaks effectively. He cautions against simply indulging in leisure or taking lavish vacations without meaningful engagement. Instead, students should consider activities that foster personal growth, align with their academic goals, and provide valuable experiences.

6. Episode 6- Choosing Academic Summer Programs: Thomas provides insights into choosing academic summer programs. He advises students to carefully examine the offerings and distinguish between third-party programs and those directly offered by universities. Students should consider the relevance of courses to their academic interests and motivations behind selecting specific programs.

7. Episode 8- Live Coaching Session: Identifying Passions and Pursuits: In a live coaching session with Maui, a high school freshman, Thomas helps him explore his current activities and passions. They discuss swimming, music, language learning, and part-time work. Thomas guides Maui in evaluating his abilities and interests to identify activities with potential for further development.

8. Episode 9- Developing Depth and Consistency in Activities: Thomas emphasizes the importance of developing depth and consistency in chosen activities throughout high school. He explains how demonstrating progress and dedication over time helps students stand out as interesting and unique applicants.

9. Episode 9- Avoiding Last-Minute Superficial Activities: Thomas cautions against the temptation to hastily engage in activities without genuine passion or commitment. He highlights the significance of demonstrating a genuine and authentic interest in a pursuit, rather than resorting to shallow experiences.

Tune in to the full episodes to gain valuable insights into extracurricular activities, summer planning, and strategies for making your college application shine. Remember, it's about meaningful engagement, personal growth, and showcasing your unique journey to universities. About Thomas Thomas is a parent and alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was director of admissions and financial aid at Wharton School. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to create the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities, he works with diverse and underserved communities to help them become successful college students. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for parents and applicants.

Follow Admittedly on social media Instagram: @admittedlypodcast

In this special "Best of" episode, former MBA admissions director Thomas Caleel shares valuable insights and tips for high school juniors as they approach the college admission process. The selected clips from Season One cover a range of topics, including the importance of academic performance, how to stand out in extracurricular activities, choosing recommenders, navigating college visits, planning a strategic summer, and the significance of the Common Application opening on August 1. Join Thomas as he draws upon his extensive experience to provide guidance and help students and parents prepare for their educational goals.

Have questions you want answered? Now accepting applications for parents and students to participate in a live 1:1 coaching session with Thomas. Apply HERE Key Highlights:

Clip 1: Importance of Academics in Junior Year: Episode 2

Clip 2: Standing Out in Extracurricular Activities: Episode 2

Clip 3: Choosing Meaningful Extracurricular Activities: Episode 8

Clip 4: Selecting Recommendation Letter Writers: Episode 18

Clip 5: Preparing to Ask for Recommendation Letters: Episode 18

Clip 6: Visiting Colleges and Demonstrating Interest: Episode 18

Clip 7: Planning a Summer with College Admissions in Mind: Episode 18

Clip 8: The Importance of August 1st and Common Application: Episode 19

About Thomas Caleel Thomas is a parent and alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was director of admissions and financial aid at Wharton School. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to create the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities, he works with diverse and underserved communities to help them become successful college students. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for parents and applicants. JOIN our mailing list for important updates and special bonus features.

Follow Admittedly on social media Instagram: @admittedlypodcast