Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers

By InGenius Prep

What's Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers about?

Need help navigating the college admissions process? We’re here to help! Every other Monday we’ll bring you exclusive interviews with Former Admissions Officers, graduates from top universities, and admissions experts. Each episode will be filled with application tips and first-hand experiences that will help you get into your dream school. Brought to you by InGenius Prep, the world’s largest team of Former Admissions Officers.

Questions or comments? Email us at [email protected]

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Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers episodes:

04.22.2024
93. USACO and College Applications: A Winning Combination for Computer Science Majors
Are you an aspiring computer science major looking to stand out? On today’s episode, Brian Skinner, founder of Breakout Mentors, walks us through how to best prepare for USACO, one of the most prestigious coding competitions, and how to leverage...
04.09.2024
92. What’s Next After College Decisions? A Guide for Waitlisted, Rejected, and Accepted Students
Waitlisted from your dream school? Struggling with no acceptance offers? Or are you split between multiple acceptances? On today’s episode, Krista Pickett, a Former Admissions Officer from Williams, discusses first some strategies for students to effectively navigate being waitlisted. From...
04.02.2024
91. College Admissions Confidential: Listener Q&A with Former Admissions Officers
Thinking about embellishing your extracurriculars? Wondering if your music teacher is the best person to ask for a letter of recommendation? Running behind in the college application process? On today’s episode, our Former Admissions Officers answer these questions and more...
03.15.2024
90. How We Helped a Physics Major Get Accepted Into Columbia University
With an admit rate of 14.57%, how did we help our student, Maggie, get accepted into Columbia University, her top-choice school? On today’s episode, Kat Jennings, a Former Admissions Officer from NYU, gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how...
02.24.2024
89. Is Research Experience a Must-Have in College Applications?
Do non-STEM students need research experience in their college applications? On today’s episode, Christopher Brown, our Director of Academic Mentorship, shares insider tips on how to create impactful research projects. From discussing how to present challenges to unraveling the criteria...
02.13.2024
88. How to Find Your Unique Voice in College Application Essays
How do you capture an Admissions Officer’s attention through your college essays? On today’s episode, Nivanthi Karunaratne, a Graduate Coach at InGenius Prep, shares her personal journey of self-discovery through music and how it has influenced her approach in helping...
02.05.2024
87. College Admissions Unveiled: How Do Colleges Decide Who Gets Accepted?
How do you convince colleges that you are exactly what they are looking for? On today’s episode, Drew Hazen, a Former Admissions Officer from Northwestern, unveils effective strategies to stand out among a highly competitive pool of accomplished peers. From...
01.29.2024
86. How to Elevate STEM Activities to Stand Out in College Applications
How do students stand out in popular STEM clubs, like robotics? On today’s episode, Stacy Wells Shea, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Rochester, reveals what key qualities set apart standout STEM-related extracurricular activities. From engaging in unique,...
01.19.2024
85. Fencing Your Way to College: Strategies for Admission Success
Wondering when to reach out to coaches or how to stand out in the recruitment process as a fencer? On today's episode, Kevin Dupont, a Former Admissions Officer from Cornell, sheds light on the nuances of the fencing recruitment process...
01.12.2024
84. Starting 2024 Off Strong: Our Advice to Students
Are you applying to colleges this year? Or is your New Year's Resolution to get ahead with your college applications? If so, you're in the right place! On today's episode, our Former Admissions Officers shared their best advice for students...
12.22.2023
83. 11 Students Admitted to MIT Last Round, 21.28% Above the Average Acceptance Rate: What’s Our Admissions Secret?
Want to learn our secrets to how we helped 11 students get admitted to MIT? On today’s episode, Krista Pickett, a Former Admissions Officer from Williams, reveals what it takes to create an outstanding profile that captivates admission committees. From...
12.06.2023
82. Developing Your Competitive Edge: Strategies for a Standout College Application
In college admissions, excellence alone doesn't guarantee acceptance. On today's episode, Marianna Irizarry, a Former Admissions Officer from Stanford, sheds light on the multifaceted qualities that make standout applicants. Drawing from a wealth of experience in law, education, and admissions,...
11.27.2023
81. Ace the Digital SAT: The Ultimate Guide to Scoring in the Top 1%
The new Digital SAT presents hurdles and opportunities for students aiming for top scores. On today’s episode, Jake Adams, Director of Ingenious Test Prep, unveils the strategies essential for scoring in the top percentile. Whether it's understanding the new modular...
11.10.2023
80. ChatGPT vs. Authenticity: Navigating Essay Writing in College Applications
Should you use ChatGPT to write your personal statements? On today's episode, Zak Harris, a Former Admissions Officer from Johns Hopkins, shares his strategies on how to stand out in college essays without the use of AI. To set up a complimentary...
10.25.2023
79. Computer Science in College Applications: Is it the Right Major For You?
What does it mean to be a computer science major in college? On today's episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Elena Li, who went from being a computer science major at Cornell to landing a dream job as a...
10.11.2023
78. A Deep Dive Into Capstone Projects in College Applications
Struggling with how to create passion projects that stand out in college applications? On today’s episode, Maya Gobert, Director of Student Innovation at InGenius Prep, reveals strategies on how to turn your interests into impactful projects that reflect your unique profiles,...
09.27.2023
77. The Art of Passion Projects in College Applications
What is a passion project and why are they so important in college applications? On today's episode, Evan Cudworth, a Former Admissions Officer from UChicago, shares his tips on how to create a passion project that stands out from the...
09.13.2023
76. Exposing Our Secrets: The Insider’s Guide to College Applications
In the highly competitive world of college admissions, even the brightest students face unexpected challenges. On today’s episode, Nick Strohl, a Former Admissions Officer from Yale, reveals why even the best students with impeccable grades are unexpectedly rejected by their...
08.30.2023
75. A Yale Student Shares His Success Story and Top Tips for College Applications
Discover the secrets to securing an acceptance letter from Ivy League schools with insider tips from Shan Lateef, a former InGenius Prep student. Learn how Shan not only earned the top score for his letter of recommendation but also skillfully...
08.16.2023
74. Fine Tuning Success: Musical Talent in College Applications
Want to learn how to effectively showcase your musical talents to stand out from the crowd? On today's episode, Kathryn Scherer, Director of Undergraduate Services at InGenius Prep, uncovers her best strategies for using music to enhance your college application. Whether...
08.03.2023
73. How to Stand Out as a Pre-Med Student in College Applications
From showcasing a genuine passion for medicine to leveraging unique experiences and hobbies, Ryan Creps, a Former Admissions Officer from Brown, reveals his best strategies for making a lasting impression in pre-med applications. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK...
07.19.2023
72. Leadership Experience: The Missing Piece in College Applications
What does leadership really mean to schools and how can students successfully prove these qualities in their college applications? On today’s episode, Maya Gobert, Director of Student Innovation at InGenius Prep, reveals strategies on where to start and the importance of...
07.05.2023
71. How to Succeed as a Computer Science Student in College Admissions
On today’s episode, we reveal strategies that help students stand out when applying to one of the most competitive majors – computer science. Natalia Ostrowski, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Chicago, shares further insight into different programs,...
01.23.2023
70. Early Admissions Case Studies: How Real Students Got Accepted Early to Their Dream Colleges
On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, an InGenius Prep Graduate Coach and our Digital Content Manager, and Vicky Rosenthal Madrid, our Assistant Director of Marketing. We discuss our first three case studies for the 2022-23 cycle of students...
01.09.2023
69. The Top Summer Programs for High School Students and How to Gain Admission to Them
On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA graduate, InGenius Prep Graduate Coach, and writing professor at the University of New Haven. Padya and I discuss the top summer programs and their impact on college applications. Padya...
12.19.2022
68. SAT and ACT Prep: Strategies to Boost College Admissions Test Scores
On today’s episode, we chat with Brad Bailey, the founder of Bailey Test Prep. Brad and I discuss how students can prepare for the SAT and ACT to boost their admissions odds. Brad highlights specific strategies students can use to...
12.05.2022
67. 11th Grade Prep: How High School Juniors Can Prepare Early for College Admissions
On today’s episode, we chat with Kathryn Scherer, InGenius Prep’s Director of Undergraduate Services. Kathryn and I discuss how 11th grade students can maximize junior year to prepare for college admissions. Kathryn explores everything from extracurriculars to course loads and...
11.21.2022
66. How High School Students Can Gain Research Experience to Stand Out in College Admissions
On today’s episode, we chat with Dr. Christopher Brown, InGenius Prep's Director of Academic Mentorships. Chris and I discuss the wide range of strategies high school students can use to gain research experience. Chris reveals how such practical exposure helps...
11.07.2022
65. What a Georgetown Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | Georgetown University
On today’s episode, we chat with Raheel Masood, the Former Associate Director of Admissions at Georgetown University. Raheel and I discuss the components of the Georgetown application and how applicants can stand out. Raheel highlights strategies for prospective students to...
10.24.2022
64. The Future of College Admissions: 2022 National Association for College Admissions Counseling Conference Recap
On today’s episode, we chat with Erin Gu, InGenius Prep’s Chief Education Officer. Erin recently attended the 2022 National Association for College Admissions Counseling Conference. Erin and I discuss what she learned, including changes to FAFSA and the uncertainty surrounding...
10.10.2022
63. 2022-23 College Application Cycle: Analysis of Admissions Changes and Trends
NOTE: We've received notice that it is possible to apply early to both Stanford and USC. If you have any questions, we recommend contacting their admissions offices. On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA graduate, InGenius Prep...
09.26.2022
62. Talent in College Admissions: Highlighting Artistic, Athletic, and Academic Abilities in Applications
On today’s episode, we chat with Kevin Dupont, an athletic recruitment specialist and Former Admissions Officer from UC Berkeley, Tufts, Cornell, and UCSC. Kevin and I discuss the myriad of different ways students can showcase their talents in their college...
09.12.2022
61. First Year College Success Strategies for Incoming University Freshmen
On today’s episode, we chat with Nick Strohl, a former Academic Advisor in the College of Letters and Science Honors Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Yale. Nick and I discuss numerous...
08.22.2022
60. 11 College Admissions Myths: Debunking Common Misconceptions about the College Application Process
On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA graduate, InGenius Prep Graduate Coach, and writing professor at the University of New Haven. Padya and I break down 11 college admissions myths and misconceptions, including: MYTH #1 - True...
08.08.2022
59. What an NYU Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | New York University
On today’s episode, we chat with Lydia Mason, a Former Admissions Reader at and graduate of NYU. Lydia and I discuss the type of students NYU looks for and how applicants can set themselves apart. Lydia reveals the many mistakes...
07.25.2022
58. Creative Writing for College Applications
On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA candidate and InGenius Prep Graduate Coach. Padya and I discuss how students can utilize the principles of creative writing in their college applications. Padya shares examples of students she...
07.11.2022
57. 2021-2022 College Application Cycle Debrief: Admissions Trends and Analysis
On today’s episode, we chat with Erin Gu, InGenius Prep’s Chief Education Officer. Erin and I discuss the admissions trends we’ve identified from the 2021-22 application cycle and how we think these trends will affect future applicants. Erin and I...
06.27.2022
56. What a Johns Hopkins Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | Johns Hopkins University
On today’s episode, we chat with Zak Harris, a Former Admissions Officer at Johns Hopkins University, George Washington University, Bowdoin College, and Regis College. Zak and I discuss admissions at Johns Hopkins, breaking down each component of the application. Zak...
06.06.2022
55. What a United States Naval Academy Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants
On today’s episode, we chat with Pat Williams, the former Director of Admissions at the United States Naval Academy and a current InGenius Prep counselor. Pat and I discuss the paths students can take to these service academies. Pat reveals...
05.23.2022
54. How Students Can Utilize Arts and Performing Experience and Extracurriculars in College Admissions
On today’s episode, we chat with Karen Kerr, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. Karen and I discuss how students can incorporate arts extracurriculars into their college application strategy. Karen highlights...
05.09.2022
53. What a Dartmouth College Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants
On today’s episode, we chat with Heather McCutchen, a Former Admissions Reader at Dartmouth and a current InGenius Prep counselor. Heather and I discuss what makes Dartmouth special and what kind of applicants the college looks for. Heather reviews each...
04.25.2022
52. How Students at Highly Competitive High Schools Can Stand Out in College Admissions
On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, an InGenius Prep Graduate Coach and Columbia MFA candidate. Padya and I discuss the experiences of students who attend highly competitive high schools, and what admissions officers expect from these students. Padya...
04.11.2022
51. Applying to U.S. Universities as an International Student: the Admissions Process and the Student and Postgraduate Experience
On today’s episode, we chat with Victoria (Vicky) Rosenthal Madrid, InGenius Prep’s Assistant Director of Marketing and a former international student at Boston University and Florida International University and Miami Ad School. Vicky and I discuss what international students can...
03.28.2022
50. What a Columbia Admissions Officer Really Looks For | Columbia University
On today’s episode, we chat with a Former Admissions Officer from Columbia University. We discuss what types of students Columbia looks for and what sets it apart from the other Ivy League schools. She highlights what attributes students should showcase...
03.14.2022
49. What a University of Michigan Admissions Officer Really Wants from Applicants
On today’s episode, we chat with Gail Rubin Dauer, a Former Application Review Specialist, at the University of Michigan Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Gail and I discuss what type of students the University of Michigan looks for and how applicants...
02.28.2022
48. Future of College Admissions: 2021 National Association for College Admission Counseling Conference
On today’s episode, we chat with Heather McCutchen, a former Admissions Reader at Dartmouth, and Mary Chobanian, a former Admissions Reader at Harvard and Barnard. Heather and Mary share the insights they gained from the 2021 National Association for College...
02.07.2022
47. What a Duke University Merit Scholarships Director Really Wants from Applicants
On today’s episode, we chat with Melissa Rains, a former Director of Merit Scholarships at Duke University and an InGenius Prep counselor. Melissa breaks down what goes on behind the scenes in the Duke admissions and merit scholarship offices. She...
01.24.2022
46. The ABCs of College Financial Aid: Scholarships, Loans, and More
On today’s episode, we chat with the team behind SMARTTRACK College Funding, National Program Director Cyndi Menegaz and Co-Founder & CFO Scott Greenameyer. Scott and Cyndi break down the different types of college funding and how families can maximize the...
12.13.2021
45. What to Do If You’re Deferred or Rejected from Your Early Decision or Early Action School
On today’s episode, we chat again with Padya Paramita, an InGenius Prep Graduate Coach and Columbia student. Padya and I discuss why students might be deferred or rejected from their early decision or early action college. Padya explains the next...
11.22.2021
44. What a Yale Admissions Officer Really Wants from Applicants | Yale University
On today’s episode, we chat with Nick Strohl, a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Yale University and an InGenius Prep counselor. Nick and I discuss what makes Yale unique compared to other Ivy League and elite colleges, and...

What's Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers about?

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers episodes:

93. USACO and College Applications: A Winning Combination for Computer Science Majors

92. What’s Next After College Decisions? A Guide for Waitlisted, Rejected, and Accepted Students

91. College Admissions Confidential: Listener Q&A with Former Admissions Officers

90. How We Helped a Physics Major Get Accepted Into Columbia University

89. Is Research Experience a Must-Have in College Applications?

88. How to Find Your Unique Voice in College Application Essays

87. College Admissions Unveiled: How Do Colleges Decide Who Gets Accepted?

86. How to Elevate STEM Activities to Stand Out in College Applications

85. Fencing Your Way to College: Strategies for Admission Success

84. Starting 2024 Off Strong: Our Advice to Students

83. 11 Students Admitted to MIT Last Round, 21.28% Above the Average Acceptance Rate: What’s Our Admissions Secret?

82. Developing Your Competitive Edge: Strategies for a Standout College Application

81. Ace the Digital SAT: The Ultimate Guide to Scoring in the Top 1%

80. ChatGPT vs. Authenticity: Navigating Essay Writing in College Applications

79. Computer Science in College Applications: Is it the Right Major For You?

78. A Deep Dive Into Capstone Projects in College Applications

77. The Art of Passion Projects in College Applications

76. Exposing Our Secrets: The Insider’s Guide to College Applications

75. A Yale Student Shares His Success Story and Top Tips for College Applications

74. Fine Tuning Success: Musical Talent in College Applications

73. How to Stand Out as a Pre-Med Student in College Applications

72. Leadership Experience: The Missing Piece in College Applications

71. How to Succeed as a Computer Science Student in College Admissions

70. Early Admissions Case Studies: How Real Students Got Accepted Early to Their Dream Colleges

69. The Top Summer Programs for High School Students and How to Gain Admission to Them

68. SAT and ACT Prep: Strategies to Boost College Admissions Test Scores

67. 11th Grade Prep: How High School Juniors Can Prepare Early for College Admissions

66. How High School Students Can Gain Research Experience to Stand Out in College Admissions

65. What a Georgetown Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | Georgetown University

64. The Future of College Admissions: 2022 National Association for College Admissions Counseling Conference Recap

63. 2022-23 College Application Cycle: Analysis of Admissions Changes and Trends

62. Talent in College Admissions: Highlighting Artistic, Athletic, and Academic Abilities in Applications

61. First Year College Success Strategies for Incoming University Freshmen

60. 11 College Admissions Myths: Debunking Common Misconceptions about the College Application Process

59. What an NYU Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | New York University

58. Creative Writing for College Applications

57. 2021-2022 College Application Cycle Debrief: Admissions Trends and Analysis

56. What a Johns Hopkins Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | Johns Hopkins University

55. What a United States Naval Academy Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants

54. How Students Can Utilize Arts and Performing Experience and Extracurriculars in College Admissions

53. What a Dartmouth College Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants

52. How Students at Highly Competitive High Schools Can Stand Out in College Admissions

51. Applying to U.S. Universities as an International Student: the Admissions Process and the Student and Postgraduate Experience

50. What a Columbia Admissions Officer Really Looks For | Columbia University

49. What a University of Michigan Admissions Officer Really Wants from Applicants

48. Future of College Admissions: 2021 National Association for College Admission Counseling Conference

47. What a Duke University Merit Scholarships Director Really Wants from Applicants

46. The ABCs of College Financial Aid: Scholarships, Loans, and More

45. What to Do If You’re Deferred or Rejected from Your Early Decision or Early Action School

44. What a Yale Admissions Officer Really Wants from Applicants | Yale University

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