In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel speaks directly to rising seniors and their families. First, congratulations—junior year is done. Now it’s time to look ahead. The next six weeks before the Common App opens are critical. This is when you take everything you’ve done and shape it into a focused, compelling strategy.

Thomas outlines how students should be using this time: revisiting standardized test plans, reflecting on academic interests and potential majors, and identifying the schools and environments that truly fit. He emphasizes the importance of deeper research, from courses to campus culture, and how these insights should inform your application narrative.

• Start With Testing:
  ACT and SAT scores are becoming more important. Decide now if you need to retake your test, and explore free resources, tutoring, or study groups to help you succeed.

• Build Your College Framework:
  Work backward—think about your intended major, then identify the right-fit schools. Research deeply and critically: course offerings, campus culture, and opportunities for involvement.

• Strategize for Essays:
  Don’t write yet, but start reviewing last year’s supplemental essay prompts to understand what different schools value. Shape your approach based on what each school is actually looking for.

• Summer Isn’t Just for Applications:
  Highly selective schools expect you to be engaged. Volunteer, get a job, read, or explore something that moves you forward. This is your final summer—use it well.

• Advice for Parents:
  Support your student, but give them room to process. If your child doesn’t want to share their essay, that’s okay—find a third-party expert to help with feedback.

• Get Ahead on the Common App:
  Create your account and start basic data entry. Getting organized now will save stress later.

You don’t need to have everything figured out today—but you do need to start moving with purpose. Thoughtful planning now can make the difference between a chaotic senior year and a strategic, confident one.

Where are you in the process? We’d love to hear from you—DM us on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco with your questions or concerns.

Visit www.admittedly.co for free resources, tools, and expert support to help you stay on track.

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel unpacks the recent controversy surrounding Harvard and the broader implications for international students in the U.S. While Harvard may be in the spotlight, this is bigger than one school. These shifts have the potential to reshape the future of admissions, influence how schools fund themselves, and even impact American students directly.

Thomas walks through the timeline of events that led to this moment, exploring the implications for international students and US families alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Harvard Is Just the Beginning: The current controversy isn’t isolated—it’s likely a test case for broader legal and political challenges facing top schools across the country.
  
  

• International Students Matter—A Lot: From economic impact to intellectual diversity, international students play a vital role in shaping college communities and the U.S. workforce.
  
  

• There Could Be Ripple Effects for U.S. Students: Changes in international enrollment may shift how universities fund programs, offer aid, and build networks—meaning American students could feel the effects too.
  
  

• Don’t Panic, But Stay Informed: The landscape is shifting, but that doesn’t mean it’s collapsing. Thoughtful planning and staying up to date are the best tools families can have.
  
  

This is about more than just one university or one admissions cycle. It’s about how we define access, opportunity, and the value of global connection in American higher education.

Got questions or concerns about international admissions? DM us on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco—we’re here to keep you informed and supported.

Visit www.admittedly.co for expert resources and insights.

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel tackles a concern we hear often from families: “What if my kid isn’t the extroverted type who starts clubs or rallies crowds?” What happens when a student is deeply curious, authentic, and passionate—but in a quieter, more individual way?

Thomas breaks down what admissions officers actually value, why solo work can absolutely shine, and how to ensure your quieter approach still connects outside your own bubble.

With real examples from students who were more introspective but still successful at the most competitive schools, this episode will help you reframe what leadership, initiative, and involvement really mean—and how to lean into your strengths, even if they look different from everyone else’s.

Key Takeaways:

• Being Introverted Isn’t a Red Flag: You don’t need to lead 100 people to be seen as a leader. You just need to show passion, initiative, and depth—on your own terms.
• Independent Work Still Counts as Involvement: Internships, research, and solo projects are valid forms of engagement. If you're working with a local lab, nature center, or professor—that is community involvement.
• But You Can’t Stay in a Bubble: Doing everything in isolation won’t cut it. Admissions officers are looking for signs that you'll engage with a college community. Find ways to bring your work into the world—through mentorship, volunteering, presentations, or collaboration.
• Top Schools Value Depth Over Performance: Real curiosity and consistency go further than surface-level leadership. What matters most is how well you understand yourself and how thoughtfully you pursue your interests.

You don’t need to be someone else to succeed in this process—but you do need to stretch. That might mean presenting your research, finding collaborators, or simply joining a community tied to your interest. Whatever your personality, the key is showing that your work doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Let your ideas breathe outside your own world.

You’re not applying to college to live alone in a lab or in your head—you’re joining a community. Admissions officers want to see that you’re ready for that in a way that’s still true to who you are.

Are you an introvert navigating this process? We want to hear your story. DM us your questions @admittedlyco on Instagram or TikTok.

Visit www.admittedly.co for more resources and support.