Being a writer, whether you’re aiming for a writing career or simply crafting an essay to get into college, is daunting. Julie Gerstenblatt, who is an author and professor, joins us on the podcast to give advice on the writing process and talk about professional publication. With her experience as a college essay coach, she also provides guidance on how to craft the most nerve-racking essay a high school student will write: the college essay.

The transition from middle school to high school can be daunting because the opportunities are endless and choices can feel overwhelming. But, today’s guest, Melanie Talesnick, who is a college counselor, gives advice to parents and students on how to make the transition into this new chapter easier. Melanie talks about the importance of focusing on your student’s interests and creating a four year plan as a guideline to their journey through high school.

How can high school students get to know a college through the lens of a religious perspective when creating their college list? Laura Hosid shares her insights and advice for students who want to explore a college campus through a Jewish lens. Whether it is getting involved in Hillel or a Chabab on campus, studying Judaism, or savoring a kosher meal with friends, there are many ways students can continue to practice their faith on a college campus.

Today’s podcast episode is a little different. We divert from our normal college prep-based conversations and chat with Mandy Edwards, the owner of ME Marketing Services, who helps College Scoops behind the scenes with our social media content and strategy. Want to get the inside scoop on what working in social media is really like? Then, you don’t want to miss this episode of the College Scoops podcast!

Transitioning from highschool to college is not easy. For many students, this will be the first time living independently. For students with physical disabilities and chronic health conditions, the transition can be even more challenging if students are unprepared. Annie Tulkin is an expert in the area of college transition for students with physical disabilities and health conditions. She helps students and families find a school that is the right fit for them from an accessibility standpoint.

The stress of paying for college has increased throughout the years with the escalating costs of tuition. In this episode, Patricia Roberts, shares her personal stories attending and paying for college. Her personal journey led her to write a book for families called Route 529 to help families get started no matter where they are in their education savings journey.

So, you want to be a medical professional? The road to medical school is not easy, but with the right amount of preparation and dedication, it is a viable and fulfilling career option for many. On today’s episode, Dr. Shirag Shemmassian gives prospective medical students advice and information on the application process.

The last two years of the college application process has been nerve wracking for everyone, especially the students. In light of SAT/ACT tests being canceled, colleges and universities transitioning to test-optional, extracurricular activities canceled or halted, families working and learning remotely, we have all had to adapt. Our guest today, Norma Greenberg, has a degree in counseling psychology which offers a unique lens into the college counseling process from a family dynamics perspective. Norma shares how parents can better support their students as they navigate the college admissions process.

Everyone knows the phrase “work smarter, not harder”, but how can you actually do that? Today’s guest is Scott Clyburn who has been a tutoring professional since 2005. Scott provides  helpful advice for students on how to study smarter whether you are in high school or college. Scott touches on how creating organizational systems, meeting professors, and knowing your goals can help you achieve success in higher education.

The student identity has always been an integral part of any teenager or young adult’s life. How can it not be after 12+ years of school where a student’s life constantly revolves around attending classes, studying for exams, doing extracurricular activities, and getting ready for college. After experiencing the same routine for so many years, it leaves little room for self-exploration and discovery. This is why gap years have become increasingly popular among recent graduates to take a break from their formal education in order to pursue other activities and interests. Holly Bull is the President of Center of Interim Programs, which is the first and longest-running independent gap year counseling organization in the United States and was initially founded by Holly’s father, Cornelius Bull. Holly is a life-long gapper herself and will share her story and explain why more and more students are taking advantage of a gap year on the podcast.