In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel answers listener questions from Instagram and TikTok (@admittedlyco) on a range of topics surrounding the college admissions process. He offers advice on balancing academic and extracurricular pressure to avoid burnout, and discusses strategies for applicants not targeting Ivy League schools. Thomas also covers gap years, when to hire a college advisor, international applicants, and how deferred applicants should approach their LOCI.

Key Questions:

• "How do we balance not burning these kids out before they even arrive on campus? Feels like a feedback loop that needs to change. College admissions are expecting more, students are doing more, or doing more elite activities, and then admissions expects these things are the norm."

• "Would you mind addressing how your intent applies to students that aren't looking at the big Ivies?"

• "How to balance life as a teen and top academic achievement in a manner that is healthy and avoids burnout?"

• "Thoughts on a gap year? How do you make the most of a gap year?"

• "As a parent of a rising ninth grader, when do you recommend hiring a college advisor?"

• "How important is having national or international awards for top schools? Is having none going to get you rejected?"

• Advice for international applicants, especially in creating opportunities when extracurricular activities may not be as prevalent in their countries.

• How deferred applicants are reviewed during regular decision and how to strategically approach a letter of continued interest.

Remember, navigating college admissions is all about finding the right balance, staying true to yourself, and focusing on what truly matters. Trust in your unique journey.

Be sure to follow Thomas on Instagram and TikTok at @admittedlyco. Feel free to DM your questions or drop them in the comments—there's a lot of great engagement happening between students, parents, and those with experience!