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What does it mean to provide a truly personalized college experience?
In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I speak with Nick Marter, Executive Director of Admissions at Dominican University New York, about how a smaller university creates meaningful relationships with students while preparing them for success in college and beyond.
Our conversation explores Dominican University's student-centered approach to admissions, academics, career preparation, and affordability. Nick also discusses how the university is thoughtfully integrating artificial intelligence into the classroom while continuing to emphasize the personal connections that help students thrive.
In this episode, you'll learn:Whether you're a student, parent, or school counselor, this episode offers valuable insight into how to evaluate college fit beyond rankings and reputation.
Dominican University New York
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👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
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—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
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What does it take to stand out at one of the nation's leading public research universities? In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Carlos Jimenez, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Admissions and Precollege in the Division of Enrollment Management at the University of Colorado Boulder, for an inside look at how admissions decisions are made at a highly selective flagship institution.
Carlos shares how CU Boulder evaluates applicants through the lens of curiosity, academic rigor, and authenticity while building a dynamic community of students representing a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and interests. From understanding institutional priorities to crafting meaningful application essays, this conversation offers practical guidance for students and families navigating today's competitive admissions landscape.
In this episode, you'll learn:Whether you're just beginning your college search or preparing to submit applications this fall, this episode provides valuable insight into what selective universities are looking for—and how students can present their most authentic selves throughout the admissions process.
CLICK HERE to connect with the University of Colorado Boulder
If you enjoy The College Admissions Process Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with students, families, and educators who are navigating the college admissions journey.
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
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In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I speak with Caitlin Brown, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions at Bryn Mawr College, about what makes Bryn Mawr unique and how students can identify whether a college is the right fit.
They discuss holistic admissions, academic rigor, authentic student voice, and what colleges look for beyond grades and test scores.
Key Takeaways:
• Finding the Right Fit: Bryn Mawr looks for students who will thrive in a collaborative, intellectually curious community and contribute as engaged learners.
• Beyond Traditional Leadership: Admissions teams value impact in many forms — including initiative, responsibility, service, family commitments, and meaningful contributions to a community.
• Holistic Application Review: Caitlin shares how Bryn Mawr evaluates applications carefully, considering the full context of each student’s academic journey and personal experiences.
• The Power of Authenticity: Students do not need a perfect story. They need to demonstrate reflection, growth, and an understanding of who they are.
• Writing Strong Essays: The strongest essays sound like the student. Authentic voice, thoughtful reflection, and genuine connection matter.
• The Tri-College Consortium: Students gain access to expanded academic opportunities through partnerships with Haverford College, Swarthmore College, and the University of Pennsylvania.
• The Value of a Liberal Arts Education: Caitlin discusses how critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability prepare students for an evolving workforce.
Advice for Students and Families:
Start early, explore colleges thoughtfully, ask questions, and focus on finding a community where you can grow and thrive.
Listen now to learn more about Bryn Mawr College and the admissions process from the perspective of a Dean of Undergraduate Admissions.
Bryn Mawr Admissions & Aid
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SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
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In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sat down with Emily Roper-Doten, Dean of Admissions at Brandeis University, to discuss what makes Brandeis unique and how students can strengthen their college applications.
Dean Roper-Doten shares insights into Brandeis University's mission, admissions review process, test-optional policy, Early Decision program, financial aid resources, and the qualities that help students stand out in a highly competitive applicant pool. She also offers practical advice for students and families navigating today's college admissions landscape.
In This EpisodeUnderstanding the Brandeis University ExperienceIf you're interested in Brandeis University, highly selective college admissions, financial aid, test-optional admissions, college essays, or application strategies, this episode provides valuable insights directly from a Dean of Admissions.
Resources-------------------------------
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
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In this episode I sat down with Kevin T. Mathes - Vice President of Enrollment Management & Dean of Admissions at Bucknell University As both a senior leader and alumnus, he offers a clear, insider perspective on what truly defines Bucknell—and what it takes to stand out in its admissions process.
This conversation explores what makes Bucknell a distinctive “big small school,” blending the close-knit feel of a liberal arts college with the opportunities of a larger university. Kevin also shares how admissions decisions are made across different colleges within Bucknell, and why context matters when evaluating a student’s academic record.
Listeners will gain insight into how to approach transcripts, testing decisions in a test-optional landscape, and the role authenticity plays in essays. The discussion also touches on how emerging factors like AI are being viewed in the application process, along with key considerations around financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
The episode wraps with practical, experience-driven advice for families navigating the process—offering a grounded perspective on how to approach decisions with clarity and confidence.
If you're looking for a sharper understanding of selective admissions and how to position yourself thoughtfully, this episode delivers meaningful insight without the noise.
Bucknell University - Office of Admissions
Scholarship Programs - Bucknell University
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
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In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sat down with Victor Thomas, Director of Admissions at Washington University in St. Louis, for an in-depth conversation about what truly matters in today’s highly selective admissions process.
Victor offers a thoughtful and transparent look into how WashU evaluates applicants beyond grades and test scores, while also sharing insights into the university’s collaborative, interdisciplinary culture. From understanding transcript rigor to navigating the debut of WashU’s new Early Action plan, this episode provides valuable guidance for students, families, and counselors alike.
Whether you are applying to a highly selective institution or simply trying to better understand the concept of “fit,” this conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, curiosity, and self-awareness throughout the college admissions journey.
Topics Discussed in This Episode:WashU Admissions
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with students, families, and counselors navigating the college admissions process.
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
Exploring The College of Wooster with Jason McGrath
In this episode, I spoke with Jason McGrath, Vice President for Enrollment Management, about what makes The College of Wooster a distinctive option for students.
A defining feature of Wooster is its Senior Independent Study (IS), a year-long, faculty-mentored research project required for all students, emphasizing independent thinking and real-world application.
The conversation also highlights Wooster’s holistic admissions process, where applications are reviewed in context, academic rigor is evaluated based on available opportunities, and standardized testing remains optional. Notably, test scores are not considered in scholarship decisions.
Jason shares practical advice for applicants, including how to approach the activities list, what makes a compelling personal statement, and when Early Decision is an appropriate choice.
The episode also explores Wooster’s strong support systems, commitment to personalized learning, and outcomes for graduates.
The College of Wooster - Admissions
Colleges That Change Lives
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
Navigating Admissions at the University of Tennessee with Sheryl Tingling
In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante welcomes back Sheryl Tingling, Regional Admissions Recruiter for New Jersey and New York at the University of Tennessee, for an in-depth look at the university’s evolving admissions landscape.
From expanded access pathways to transparent admissions policies, Sheryl shares valuable insights to help students and families better understand what it takes to be a competitive applicant at UT—while making informed decisions throughout the college process.
Key Topics Covered:
Expanded Pathway Opportunities
The University of Tennessee continues to broaden access through innovative programs such as Verto (study abroad), the Rocky Top Transfer Pathway (in partnership with community colleges), and the UT Access Collaborative with campuses like UT Chattanooga.
Campus Life & Institutional Mission
Learn how UT fosters a culture of discovery and creativity, supported by a vibrant campus experience in downtown Knoxville, featuring more than 450 student clubs and organizations.
Admissions Policies & Approach
A closer look at UT’s in-state guaranteed admission policy and the university’s decision not to offer binding Early Decision—ensuring students and families have the flexibility to make informed financial choices.
Holistic Application Review
Sheryl explains UT’s comprehensive review process, where every application is read by multiple admissions professionals—with no reliance on AI—emphasizing a thoughtful, human-centered evaluation.
Academic Expectations
Understand how UT recalculates GPA based on 16 core academic credits and why standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) remain a required component of the application.
What Makes an Application Stand Out
Practical advice on using the resume to highlight experiences beyond the Common Application and crafting a personal statement that authentically reflects the student’s voice and growth.
Student Support Services
An overview of UT’s Student Disability Services and how students with IEPs or 504 plans are supported throughout the admissions and enrollment process.
University of Tennessee Undergraduate Admissions
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
What makes Howard University one of the most distinctive institutions in higher education? In this episode, Dr. John Durante welcomes Brie Mercedes, Admissions Officer at Howard University, for an insightful conversation about the university's admissions process, its culture, and what students can do to submit their strongest application.
As one of the nation's premier research universities and a nationally recognized HBCU, Howard offers students an environment where academic excellence, leadership, service, and identity intersect. Brie explains how Howard's holistic admissions process goes far beyond grades and test scores, emphasizing authenticity, intellectual curiosity, community impact, and a clear sense of purpose.
Whether you're considering Howard University or simply want to better understand how selective colleges evaluate applicants, this episode offers valuable guidance for students, parents, and school counselors alike.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:Howard's Mission Matters
Howard University seeks students who are committed to leadership, service, and creating meaningful change in their communities. Admissions officers look for applicants whose personal values align with the university's mission.
Authenticity Wins
The strongest applications tell a genuine story. Admissions officers want to understand who students are, how they've grown, and what they hope to contribute to their college community—not simply a list of accomplishments.
Context Is Important
Howard reviews every application holistically, considering the rigor of a student's coursework, academic trajectory, and any circumstances that may have influenced their performance.
Impact Over Activity Lists
Meaningful involvement, sustained commitment, employment, family responsibilities, and community engagement often carry more weight than accumulating numerous leadership titles.
Scholarships Require Initiative
Students should begin searching for external scholarships early and apply broadly. Persistence and consistency can significantly reduce the cost of college.
Memorable Quotes"Howard students are mission-driven, community-minded, and excited to be in an environment where excellence and Black identity reinforce one another." — Brie Mercedes
"Admissions officers can't advocate for students they don't truly know. Make sure your application helps us understand who you are." — Brie Mercedes
"AI can write generally, but only you can tell your story." — Brie Mercedes
Howard University Admissions
Connect with John Durante, Ed.D.If you enjoy The College Admissions Process Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with students, families, and educators navigating the college admissions journey.
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
In this episode, John Durante speaks with David Wagner, Director of Admissions, about what makes St. Olaf distinctive—from its Lutheran-rooted liberal arts foundation to its strong sense of community and purpose. With over 20 years of experience, Wagner provides insight into how the college evaluates applicants and builds a values-driven campus.
Key Topics CoveredMission & Identity: A focus on intellectual exploration, interfaith dialogue, and meaningful contribution
Collaborative Culture: High-achieving, thoughtful students in a supportive, “doer”-oriented environment
Holistic Review Process:
Fit Over Prestige: As a member of Colleges That Change Lives, the focus is on growth and finding the right match
Affordability: Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, with transparent tools and merit opportunities
Resources-------------------------------------
📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free gift
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores.
🎯 Special Offer for Listeners: Use the code COLLEGETALK (one word) at checkout to receive 20% off.
📚 For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com
—-----------------------------
Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:
🔗 Get the Print Copy Here
🔗 Get the eBook Here
Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links
www.collegeadmissionstalk.com
Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
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