collegepreppodcast's podcast

Strong grades don’t always equal strong test scores—and that disconnect can be frustrating for both students and parents. In this mini-episode, we break down why the SAT and ACT are their own skill set, not a reflection of intelligence or identity.

We talk about:

Bottom line? These tests matter, but they aren’t everything—and they definitely don’t define you.

Email your questions to [email protected] or comment on YouTube (@CollegePrepPodcast)—we may feature them in a future episode.

The post 580: The SAT & ACT Aren’t About Being “Smart” appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.

College admissions are behind us and it’s time to check out and enjoy summer, right? Wrong. This summer is your secret weapon. Why? Because getting into college is just step one. The next challenge is making it all the way to graduation—and most students aren’t ready.

In this episode, we break down the five core skills every student needs to build before they step on campus, based on what actually leads to success, retention, and confidence during the first year.

Here’s what we cover:

Most students are missing at least one of these pillars. And they try to figure it out while juggling classes, deadlines, and a new life on their own. We don’t recommend that.

That’s exactly why we created LAUNCH, our summer prep program for students who want to hit the ground running. It’s packed with the tools, coaching, and guidance students need to feel ready—not just accepted.

Learn more about the program and join us: almamodern.com/launch

Have a question? Email us at [email protected] or comment on YouTube (@CollegePrepPodcast)—we might feature your question in a future episode.

The post 579: 5 Core Skills Every Student Needs BEFORE Day One of College appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.

Your college application isn’t just paperwork—it’s your personal sales pitch. It’s how you present your academic story, your values, and your potential to admissions committees who may only spend a few minutes reviewing it.

In the fourth episode of our College Admissions Essentials playlist, we break down what really goes into an effective application—and how students can approach it strategically, not just as a formality.

We cover:

This episode is both practical and perspective-shifting, helping students realize that while they can’t change their transcript, they can shape the way they present their story—and that work takes time, intention, and clarity.

Have questions? Email us at [email protected] or drop a comment on YouTube (@CollegePrepPodcast)—we might feature your question in a future episode.

The post 578: College Applications 101: Everything You Need to Know (College Admissions Essentials #4) appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.

Getting accepted to college is a huge milestone, but getting in and graduating are two very different challenges. The truth? Most students spend months preparing college applications and almost no time preparing for what happens next.

In this episode, we break down why getting into college doesn’t mean you’re ready for college—and what to do about it before day one.

We introduce the three essential pillars of college success that often get overlooked during the transition:
• Productivity – Managing time and tasks without anyone checking in
• Learning – Meeting higher academic expectations with deeper study skills
• Mindset – Handling failure, finding motivation, and staying emotionally resilient

You’ll learn how to self-assess your strengths and gaps, hear real-world examples of what happens when one pillar is missing, and get clear next steps to start building the skills that matter most—before you even step on campus.

If you or someone you love is heading to college this fall, NOW is the time to prepare for the real college experience.

Start building your foundation today with our free microlectures at almamodern.com/start and learn more about Alma Modern’s Summer College Transition Program, designed to help students master the learning, productivity, and mindset skills they need to thrive.

Prefer to watch? Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CollegePrepPodcast
Have questions? Email us at [email protected] or comment on YouTube (@CollegePrepPodcast)—your question might be featured in a future episode.

The post 577: They Got In! Here’s how they make it to Graduation Day appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.

For students with learning differences or executive functioning challenges, the transition from high school to college can be exciting—but also overwhelming. That’s why we invited Cindy Palmer of Threshold Coaches to share her most essential, experience-tested tips to help neurodivergent students feel confident and supported as they step into college life.

With over 25 years of experience as an educator, therapist, and the founder of a tutoring company focused on diverse learners, Cindy now leads a coaching team that helps students build the skills they need to succeed in and beyond college.

In this episode, Cindy breaks down the Top 10 things neurodivergent students (and their families) should do before college begins, including:
• How to build self-advocacy and independence
• Why it’s important to practice accommodations in high school
• Setting up systems for medication, mental health, and waking up on your own
• What paperwork to prepare—and what questions to ask the disability office
• Tools for transitioning from parent-managed to student-led routines

We also explore how families can support this transition with a gradual shift from “I do” to “You do,” and why learning to say “It’s your call” might be the most powerful step a parent can take.

Want to learn more about working with Threshhold Coaches and supporting neurodiverse students in the transition to college? Visit https://www.thresholdcoaches.com/

Have questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected] or drop a comment on YouTube (@CollegePrepPodcast)—your question might be featured in a future episode!

The post 576: 10 Essential Tips for Neurodivergent Students Preparing for College appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.