Épisodes

  • 398. What Colleges Really Look For: Inside Regis College Admissions with Chris Lydon

    398. What Colleges Really Look For: Inside Regis College Admissions with Chris Lydon
    Oct 26 2026
    In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host Dr. John Durante speaks with Chris Lydon, Vice President for Undergraduate Enrollment and Dean of Admission at Regis College. During Regis College’s centennial year, Chris discusses the college’s supportive campus community, nursing and health sciences programs, and how the admissions team evaluates applicants.The conversation offers practical guidance on academic preparation, test-free admissions, extracurricular involvement, recommendation letters, and writing an authentic college application.In This EpisodeRegis College at 100: Explore its residential community, academic programs, and strengths in nursing and clinical health sciences.A Supportive Campus: Learn about Regis’s commitment to knowing students individually and helping them succeed.Transcript Evaluation: Understand how Regis recalculates GPAs on an unweighted 4.0 scale and considers course rigor in the context of each high school and intended major.Test-Free Admissions: Discover why Regis does not use standardized test scores for admission or merit scholarship consideration.Extracurricular Activities: Learn why commitment, responsibility, and depth of involvement matter more than simply having a long activity list.Recommendations and Essays: Explore how specific anecdotes, authentic storytelling, and thoughtful proofreading strengthen an application.Additional Information: Understand when providing context about academic challenges or disruptions can help admissions officers better understand an applicant.Building Your College List: Consider an essential question before applying: Would you be happy attending the college if it were your only affordable option?Memorable Insights“The transcript is two-dimensional and black and white. Essays, recommendations, and activities are the color of the humans we're considering.” — Chris Lydon“What's the most important year of high school? The answer is the year you're currently in. That is the only year that matters.” — Chris LydonKey takeaway: A strong college application goes beyond grades. Academic choices, personal experiences, meaningful involvement, and authentic storytelling help admissions professionals understand the student behind the transcript.Regis Admission & Aid📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.comLinkedIn ​Instagram Facebook TikTok
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    50 min
  • 397. Suffolk County Community College: Affordable Pathways to College & Career Success

    397. Suffolk County Community College: Affordable Pathways to College & Career Success
    Oct 19 2026
    Pathways to Success at Suffolk County Community CollegeIn this episode, Dr. John Durante welcomes Dr. Katherine C. Aguirre, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs at Suffolk County Community College, to discuss why community college can be a powerful pathway to academic, personal, and career success.Topics include:Why Suffolk County Community College is one of the nation's leading community colleges, offering nearly 100 degree and certificate programs across three campuses.The benefits of small class sizes, personalized faculty support, and a vibrant campus life.How the Honors Program prepares students to transfer successfully to institutions such as Cornell, Yale, Princeton, and UNC Chapel Hill.Strategies for reducing college costs while earning transferable college credits.High-demand programs including Nursing, Cybersecurity, Engineering, Automotive Technology, and Culinary Arts.Opportunities for adult learners through Fast Career certifications and the SUNY Reconnect program, which provides free tuition for eligible students.Admissions tips, including SUNY Free Application Week and how to apply.Whether you're a high school student, parent, counselor, or adult learner, this episode highlights the many affordable pathways available to help students achieve their educational and career goals.ResourcesApply to Suffolk County Community College: sunysuffolk.edu/applyLearn more about the SUNY Reconnect program for eligible adult learners.From Dr. Katherine C. Aguirre:Contact: K. AguirreEmail: Aguirrk@sunysuffolk.edu (Please mention THE CAP PODCAST when reaching out)SUNY Reconnect: www.sunysuffolk.edu/reconnectApply Online: www.sunysuffolk.edu/apply📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.comLinkedIn ​Instagram Facebook TikTok
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    31 min
  • 392. Inside Brandeis Admissions: What Dean Emily Roper-Doten Wants Applicants to Know

    392. Inside Brandeis Admissions: What Dean Emily Roper-Doten Wants Applicants to Know
    Sep 14 2026
    Navigating the Brandeis University Admissions Process with Dean Emily Roper-DotenIn 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 ExperienceThe history and mission of Brandeis University.The institution's commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and intellectual inquiry.How Brandeis combines rigorous academics, research opportunities, and a vibrant arts community.How Applications Are EvaluatedWhy the high school transcript remains the most important part of the application.What admissions officers look for beyond GPA and test scores.The importance of academic growth, course selection, and sustained achievement.Authenticity MattersWhy students should focus on telling their story rather than trying to impress admissions officers.Tips for writing a compelling college essay.How meaningful extracurricular involvement matters more than the number of activities listed.Early Decision, Demonstrated Interest, and Test-Optional AdmissionsWhen Early Decision is the right choice.How demonstrated interest fits into the admissions process.What students should know about Brandeis' longstanding test-optional policy.Innovation in Financial Aid and Career PreparationAn introduction to FAY, Brandeis University's AI-powered financial aid tool.How Brandeis is helping students prepare for careers through innovative assessment of real-world skills.Why Listen?If 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.ResourcesBrandeis University Office of Undergraduate AdmissionsFAYE Financial Aid Estimator -------------------------------📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
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    44 min
  • 396. Inside Bard College Admissions with Tessa Greenhalgh - Senior Assistant Director of Admission

    396. Inside Bard College Admissions with Tessa Greenhalgh - Senior Assistant Director of Admission
    Oct 12 2026
    In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, we welcome back Tessa Greenhalgh, Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Bard College, for an in-depth conversation about what makes Bard one of the most intellectually and socially distinctive colleges in higher education today.Tessa shares how Bard blends rigorous academics with a deep commitment to civic engagement, social justice, and interdisciplinary learning. She also provides an honest look into today’s evolving admissions landscape, including the growing competitiveness of regular decision admissions and how students can present themselves authentically throughout the application process.Whether you are a student exploring colleges that value creativity and critical thinking, or a parent navigating the increasingly complex admissions journey, this episode offers meaningful insights into finding the right college fit.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why Bard is known as a “private college for the public good”Bard’s culture of civic engagement and social impactThe value of interdisciplinary study, joint majors, and the Senior Project requirementWhat admissions officers are truly looking for in the “Why Bard” supplemental essayHow students can effectively use the additional information section of the applicationWhy the order of extracurricular activities matters more than many students realizeBard’s expanded commitment to financial aid, including meeting 100% of demonstrated need for Early Action and Early Decision applicantsHow families can shift their mindset from prestige-driven admissions to identifying genuine college fitTessa’s perspective provides practical advice, thoughtful reflection, and an encouraging reminder that the college admissions process should ultimately help students find a community where they can thrive academically, personally, and socially.Bard Undergraduate AdmissionsCollege That Change Lives-------------------------------📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.comLinkedIn ​Instagram Facebook TikTok
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    49 min
  • 395. Beyond the Acceptance Letter: How Dominican University New York Creates a Personalized College Experience

    395. Beyond the Acceptance Letter: How Dominican University New York Creates a Personalized College Experience
    Oct 5 2026
    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:Why Dominican University's size allows it to provide a highly personalized student experience.How the university supports students from application through graduation.The strength of programs including Nursing, Health Sciences, Business, Education, and Criminal Justice.How AI is being thoughtfully incorporated into the curriculum.Why affordability, transparency, and student success remain central to the university's mission.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-------------------------📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.comLinkedIn ​Instagram Facebook TikTok
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    42 min
  • 389. Inside Admissions at The College of Wooster with Jason McGrath, VP for Enrollment

    389. Inside Admissions at The College of Wooster with Jason McGrath, VP for Enrollment
    Aug 24 2026
    Exploring The College of Wooster with Jason McGrathIn 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 - AdmissionsColleges That Change Lives📬 Join my email list for practical college tips - and a free giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
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    52 min
  • 394. Inside University of Colorado Boulder Admissions: What It Really Takes to Stand Out

    394. Inside University of Colorado Boulder Admissions: What It Really Takes to Stand Out
    Sep 28 2026
    Curiosity to Lead: Inside CU Boulder Admissions with Carlos JimenezWhat 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:Why curiosity is at the heart of CU Boulder's admissions philosophy.How admissions officers evaluate academic rigor by looking at the opportunities available at each student's high school.Why an upward academic trajectory can be just as important as a strong GPA.How CU Boulder defines "fit" across more than 200 academic majors and over 500 student organizations.The role institutional priorities play in shaping each incoming class, including Colorado residency requirements and the university's growing global initiatives.Why authentic storytelling matters more than polished perfection in the age of artificial intelligence.How memorable details in the activities section can help your application stand out.What students should know before applying to highly competitive programs such as Business and Engineering.Why researching individual courses within a major is often more valuable than focusing solely on the major's title.How families can reduce stress by creating healthy boundaries around the college application process.Why regularly checking email remains one of the simplest—and most important—habits during the admissions cycle.Questions every student should ask while visiting a college campus.How to choose recommenders who can provide meaningful context beyond your grades and test scores.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 BoulderIf 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 giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn
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    42 min
  • 388. University of Tennessee Admissions: What Students Need to Know

    388. University of Tennessee Admissions: What Students Need to Know
    Aug 17 2026
    Navigating Admissions at the University of Tennessee with Sheryl TinglingIn 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 OpportunitiesThe 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 MissionLearn 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 & ApproachA 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 ReviewSheryl 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 ExpectationsUnderstand 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 OutPractical 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 ServicesAn 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 giftSPEAKING 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 ApplicationsIf 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 HereAlphabetical List of All Episodes with Linkswww.collegeadmissionstalk.com​Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Shorts
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    29 min