🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey

Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus.

Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀

✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled

🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process

🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?)

🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more

🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices

⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together

🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus

🔁 What they wish they did differently

🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college

💡 What they wish they knew during the application process

📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey

This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌

If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for.

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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. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚

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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

Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List

www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

📍Located in New Haven, Connecticut, SCSU is a mid-sized regional public university that blends academic excellence, real-world preparation, and robust student support — all in an urban setting rich with culture and career access.

1️⃣ Holistic Review with a Personal Lens 💼🧠

SCSU takes a holistic approach to admissions — looking beyond GPA and test scores to consider course rigor, personal stories, and overall academic trajectory. Nilvio shares exactly what stands out during application review and how students can put their best foot forward.

2️⃣ Test-Optional ≠ Test-Irrelevant ✍️📉🧪

Southern remains test-optional, but Nilvio provides clear, actionable advice on when it makes sense to submit SAT/ACT scores. He also explains how those scores are used if submitted, helping families make confident choices.

3️⃣ Student Support is a Pillar, Not an Afterthought 🤝📚🌱

From the First-Year Experience Program to career advising and transition support, SCSU invests deeply in student success — both academically and personally. Students don’t just get in; they’re supported to thrive.

4️⃣ CSCU System Offers Flexibility & Opportunity 🔄🎓🚀

As part of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, Southern students benefit from transfer-friendly pathways, shared academic resources, and greater access to career-aligned programs. This is a game-changer for students considering both two- and four-year options.

📍 Location: New Haven, CT (just 90 minutes from NYC!)

👨‍🎓 Undergraduate Enrollment: Approx. 7,000

📚 Notable Programs: Nursing, Education, Business, Computer Science, Psychology, Social Work, Environmental Systems & Sustainability

💸 Affordability: Competitive tuition with strong financial aid and merit scholarships

🌎 Diversity: SCSU is deeply committed to serving underrepresented populations and advancing social mobility through higher education

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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. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚

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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

🎙️ Real Talk with College Students – Reflecting on the College Search Journey

Welcome to a special episode in our 🎓College Student Reflection Mini-Series on The College Admissions Process Podcast! In this episode, host John Durante sits down with a current college student who has completed at least one full year to reflect on their personal college admissions experience — from researching and applying to adapting to life on campus.

Whether you're a high school student, a parent, or a college counselor, this candid conversation is packed with firsthand insights that can help guide your journey with clarity and confidence. 🚀

✅ Where the student is from, where they went to high school, and where they’re currently enrolled

🧠 When they started thinking seriously about college — and how they approached the process

🎯 Who helped them (school counselor, private counselor, or DIY?)

🏫 Key decision-making factors: location, size, vibe, majors, and more

🚌 How many colleges they visited — and how those visits shaped their choices

⭐ Their top 3 schools and how the final decision came together

🎉 The biggest surprises after arriving on campus

🔁 What they wish they did differently

🎓 Honest advice for students applying to their college

💡 What they wish they knew during the application process

📣 Final advice for students and families just starting the college journey

This episode offers an authentic, unfiltered perspective straight from a college student who's been there. From eye-opening surprises to practical advice, listeners will gain real-world takeaways that demystify the process and encourage thoughtful decision-making. 🙌

If you’re looking to understand what matters most — and what really plays out after enrollment — this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for.

—----------------------------

👉 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. 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

Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List

www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

Key Highlights:

Cross-Disciplinary Spirit at MIT: David shares how the collaborative and interdisciplinary culture at MIT encourages students to merge different fields to innovate and solve real-world problems. It’s all about that cross-disciplinary spirit! 🔬✨

The Holistic Review Process:

David walks us through MIT's meritocratic admissions process. Here are the key areas they focus on:

• Academic Preparedness: They start with your transcripts, examining the rigor of the courses you’ve taken. 📚
• Essays and Recommendations: These components are your chance to provide meaningful insights about who you are. ✍️
• Extracurricular Activities: Your involvement and leadership outside the classroom matter greatly. 🎭⚽

Advice for Students:

• David emphasizes the importance of finding an institution that aligns with your personal and academic goals instead of just chasing prestige. 🎓
• He encourages you to reflect on who you are now and who you want to become. This self-awareness is crucial in selecting the right college for you. 🤔
• Use your application to showcase your authentic self. Don’t try to fit into a mold—just be genuine and true to who you are. 🙌

Empowering Student Agency: David makes a powerful point about trusting students in their decision-making process. Sometimes, they just know when a college isn’t the right fit, even before they step out of the car! 🚗💨

Final Thoughts: One key takeaway from our conversation is David’s mantra: “Focus on fit, not prestige.” With over 4,000 colleges in the U.S. alone, finding the place that will truly support your growth and aspirations is essential. 🌍

MIT website

MIT Admissions

MIT Student Financial Services

David duKor-Jackson’s published blogs

The specific blog that David mentioned

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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. 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

Click Here To Join The Podcast...

🎤 Jeremy Tepper – Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management

RWU takes a team-based approach to supporting students from application through graduation. Jeremy explains how the university’s collaborative structure ensures a seamless and supportive experience, where admissions, student life, and academic support professionals work together to put students first.

👟 Anna Walther – Assistant Director of Admission

Anna emphasizes the importance of campus visits and connecting with the RWU community 🤝. She encourages students to ask meaningful questions and explore campus authentically. Anna also shares how the Alumni and Parent Ambassador Programs offer real insight into student life. As a coach and former student-athlete, she provides practical tips on balancing athletics and academics ⚽📘.

📄 Kyler Jesanis – Sr. Associate Director of Admission

Kyler offers a clear explanation of RWU’s holistic review process, sharing what admissions officers really look for in applications. He talks through how students can stand out, what kinds of essays make an impression, and whether or not to submit test scores in this test-optional environment. Bonus: He highlights the most common application mistakes—and how to avoid them.

🎉 Carol Sacchetti – Associate Dean of Students / Director of Student Programs, Leadership & Orientation

Carol paints a vivid picture of student life at RWU, highlighting signature events their over 70 clubs and organizations, and countless opportunities for leadership and involvement 🎈. She also shares tips for a smooth transition into college life through the university’s welcoming orientation program.

📘 Allison Chase Padula – Assistant Provost for Student Success

Allison discusses RWU’s commitment to academic support and student success. From tutoring and academic coaching to accessibility services and accommodations, RWU ensures every student has what they need to thrive 📚. She also details how the university helps students prepare for the future through career advising, internship connections, and post-grad planning 💼.

• 📍 Located in Bristol, Rhode Island
• 🧠 Over 50 majors and strong programs in Architecture, Marine Biology, Legal Studies, Engineering, and Business
• 🏆 Known for its personalized education and commitment to community engagement
• 🏫 Approximately 4,000 undergraduates
• 🤝 Focus on real-world learning through internships, research, and service opportunities

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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. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com...

From test-optional admissions and merit scholarships to mental health support, campus safety, and Jayhawk spirit, this episode is full of valuable information for students, families, and counselors navigating the college search.

✅ Straightforward Admissions Process

• Test-optional and GPA-based admissions.
• No required essays or letters of recommendation unless appealing a denial.
• Optional short answer: "Why do you want to go to college?" — for insight, not evaluation.

🎯 Scholarship Strategy

• Merit scholarships awarded automatically based on GPA.
• In-state: Up to $5,000/year
• Out-of-state: Up to $16,000/year (brings cost close to in-state level)
• Apply by December 1 for top consideration!
• FAFSA not required, but strongly recommended.
• Stackable with local/private scholarships — a key opportunity for families to reduce cost.

🌍 Geographic & Student Diversity

• About 45% of students come from outside Kansas
• Students from all 50 states and 110+ countries
• Strong regional recruitment efforts in cities like Chicago, Dallas, Denver, and Minneapolis

📚 Student Experience & Support

• 88% freshman retention rate (national average is approximately 70%)
• 500+ student clubs, including unique ones like Flapjacks & Lumberjacks 🥞🪓
• Writing Center, Career Center, and full academic advising
• Hawk Link and TRIO programs for first-gen and underrepresented students
• Mental health resources, psychological services, and Safe Ride 🚐 — a 24/7 transportation service for students

🏈 Athletics & Campus Energy

• 16 Division I sports, including national championship-winning basketball 🏀, Big 12 women’s soccer ⚽, and a revitalized football program
• New $450M football stadium and conference center opening soon
• Jayhawk pride is real: KU has 400,000+ alumni worldwide, and a campus culture that’s truly “Rock Chalk” proud

🏛️ Tradition + Fun = Balance

• “College isn’t just about getting a degree — it’s about having an amazing experience,” says Scott
• A dynamic, welcoming, and inclusive university where students want to return early
• “It’s easier to make a big school feel small than a small school feel big” — and KU proves it

📅 Start Early

Don’t wait — apply early, especially by scholarship deadlines. Get it done in the summer so you can enjoy senior year.

🔍 Find the Right Fit

Focus on academic, financial, and social fit. Ask: Does this school offer what I want? Can we afford it? Will I thrive here?

🧭 Visit Campuses

Don’t choose a school you’ve never seen in person. Visit, visit, visit.

Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links

👉 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. 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

Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List

www.collegeadmissionstalk.com

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Boston College - Admissions

Alphabetical List of All Episodes with Links

Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List

The College Application Process Podcast - Social Media Links

🎙️In this episode, I welcome back Chris Richards, Director of Admissions at The University of Maine—the state’s flagship public research institution located in beautiful Orono, Maine 🌲🐻. With over 100 majors, a strong commitment to research and sustainability, and one of the most affordable flagship tuition rates in the country 💸, UMaine offers a compelling option for students seeking a comprehensive college experience.

Chris shares insider insights on the current admissions landscape and offers practical tips that students, families, and counselors will not want to miss. Whether you're just beginning your college search or narrowing down your list, this episode will help you look at admissions through a sharper lens 🔍.

1️⃣ Holistic Review in Action:

Chris breaks down how the University of Maine approaches holistic admissions—including how they consider your high school context, intended major, and regional representation. Learn how UMaine shapes its incoming class while staying true to its mission and priorities 📘✨.

2️⃣ Demystifying AI & Admissions Tech:

Is AI influencing admissions decisions at UMaine? Chris tackles this timely topic and provides clarity around how—and if—technology is currently being used in their review process 🤖✍️. A must-listen for families wondering about the future of admissions!

3️⃣ Making the Optional Essay & Recommendations Count:

Should you submit the optional essay? What makes a letter of recommendation truly shine? 💡 Chris offers actionable advice on how to use both elements to add depth to your application—especially for students applying without test scores.

🎯 Bonus Highlights:

• Why families should start using the Common Data Set 📊
• What institutional priorities really mean—and how they impact admission decisions 🏛
• Chris’s Top 3 Pieces of Advice for navigating today’s ever-changing admissions process 🧭

💬 If you're a student, parent, or college counselor looking to better understand how to stand out in today's competitive admissions world—this episode is packed with valuable strategies and behind-the-scenes insight.

🔗 Be sure to subscribe, rate, and share The College Admissions Process Podcast to stay informed and empowered throughout your college journey!

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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. 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

Click Here To Join The Podcast Email List