The College Admissions Process Podcast

Latest Episodes:

347. QuestBridge National College Match - Taylor Erickson - QuestBridge Scholar & Admissions Counselor at the University of Notre Dame Dec 15, 2025

Show notes

QuestBridge Home Page

QuestBridge National College Match

QuestBridge Resource Library

Feel free to reach out to Taylor with any questions at: taylor.admissions@nd.edu

Notre Dame Admissions Home Page

🎙️QuestBridge National College Match with Taylor Erickson (Notre Dame Admissions)

In this episode, Dr. John Dante speaks with Taylor Erickson, a QuestBridge Scholar alumna and admissions counselor at the University of Notre Dame, about navigating the QuestBridge National College Match. Taylor shares her personal journey from applying as a high-achieving, low-income student to working in admissions, offering practical insights for students, families, and counselors. Learn how to stand out in applications, craft authentic essays, secure strong recommendations, and stay organized through this competitive process.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Understanding QuestBridge

🌟 Connects high-achieving, low-income students with early admission and full four-year scholarships at top U.S. colleges.
💰 Scholarships cover tuition, housing, meals, and more — valued at over $325,000.
🏫 Students rank colleges for the Match, but unmatched finalists can still apply to partner schools via regular decision.

Application Process & Timeline 📅

📝 College Match Application: September submission.
🏆 Rank Colleges: Up to 15 schools.
📄 Finalist Requirements: Submit supplemental materials by early November.
🎉 Match Notification: December.

Taylor’s Personal Journey 💡

Taylor pursued QuestBridge to afford college and was drawn to Notre Dame after a pivotal premed-focused event.
Key lesson: admissions isn’t just about four years; it’s about joining a lifelong community.

Thriving as a QuestBridge Student 🌱

📚 Academic Excellence: Challenge yourself with rigorous coursework and demonstrate curiosity.
🙋 Ask for Help: College is different from high school — seek guidance from professors and peers.
🤝 Support Network: QuestBridge Scholars Network chapters provide mentorship, community, and resources.

Application Tips 📝

📊 Stay Organized: Use a spreadsheet for essays, recommendations, and supplemental materials.
✍️ Be Authentic: Essays should highlight a meaningful chapter of your life.
🖨️ The “Printer Test”: Would someone who knows you recognize your essay without your name?
🔍 Holistic Review: No single component dominates; consider whether test scores reflect your abilities.
👩‍🏫 Recommendations: Choose teachers who know you well, not just related to your intended major.

Advice for Families & Counselors 💡

📌 Learn the QuestBridge process — the website offers videos, FAQs, and worksheets.
📧 Admissions counselors are accessible and eager to help.
✅ The process is challenging but rewarding — 1,000% worth the effort.
🏠 Students should evaluate if a college is the right fit, not just if they fit the college.

Taylor’s Top 3 Tips 🎯

❓ Ask Questions: Find a college where you feel at home.
🗂️ Track Your Work: Keep essays, recommendations, and applications organized.
🌿 Take a Deep Breath: Balance the process with activities that bring joy and calm.

✅ Whether you’re applying to QuestBridge or advising students, this episode provides actionable guidance for navigating one of the most competitive college admission processes in the country.

QuestBridge.org

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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

346. Pomona College - Paola Franco -Assistant Dean of Admissions and Transfer Coordinator Dec 08, 2025

Show notes

🎙In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante is joined by Paola Franco, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Transfer Coordinator at Pomona College, to dive into what truly sets this elite liberal arts college apart — both academically and culturally.

As a proud Pomona alumna, Paola offers a compelling inside view into the student experience, academic innovation, and collaborative environment that define Pomona. From 13-person average class sizes to a deeply residential culture (98% of students live on campus), Paola shares how Pomona’s mission comes to life every day inside and beyond the classroom.

💡 Key Topics Covered:

What it means to learn at a place where “education happens everywhere”
Pomona’s commitment to diversity, global engagement, and civic impact
New programs like Data Science and Global Gateway Courses in Mexico, Morocco, Hawaii, and more
A deep dive into Pomona’s holistic admissions review, including the five “Valued Qualities” (ICAC, PICL, CSEP, CNB, Personal Traits)
How applicants should decide whether or not to submit standardized test scores (spoiler: Paola’s “pizza slice” metaphor is a must-hear)
How GPA, rigor, and course context are reviewed — and the important role of the school profile
Support for neurodiverse students and those with IEP or 504 plans
Pomona’s commitment to affordability, including meeting 100% of demonstrated need without loans
Specific resources for transfer students and how Pomona builds community across experiences
Thoughts on AI in the application process and what authenticity really means in a college essay
The story behind Pomona’s beloved number 47 and its annual celebration “4/7 Day”

✅ Top 3 Pieces of Advice for Students and Families:

Stay organized: Save your passwords, take notes, and document your impressions from campus visits and webinars.

Enjoy the transition: Whether you're heading to college for the first time or transferring, don’t let the process overshadow your final year — savor it.

Keep an open mind: Be open to surprises, evolving preferences, and one another. Grace and curiosity go a long way.

Pomona College

🙌 Fun Fact:

Pomona’s quirky and beloved connection to the number 47 has become part of the campus culture. “Chirp chirp!” is more than just a cheer — it’s a nod to a community filled with personality and purpose.

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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

345. Hunter College, CUNY - Jarvis Dieujuste - Admissions Advisor Dec 01, 2025

Show notes

🎓In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante welcomes back Jarvis Dieujuste, Admissions Advisor at Hunter College, for an insightful and energizing conversation on how one of the flagship schools of the CUNY system supports students from all backgrounds — before, during, and after the admissions process.

Jarvis shares valuable updates about new programs at Hunter, unpacks the college’s holistic review process, and dives deep into how Hunter fosters a strong sense of community for commuters, while maintaining accessibility and affordability 🎓💰.

✅ Top 4 Takeaways for Students & Families:

🔍 Holistic Review With a Human Touch

Hunter takes a comprehensive view of each student — beyond GPAs. Jarvis explains how factors like course rigor, essays, recommendation letters, and even optional interviews all contribute to a student’s story.

🎭 Commuter Life Can Still Be Campus Life

With 100+ clubs (including a 🥪 Ham & Cheese Club! 😂), Hunter proves you don’t need dorms to build community. Jarvis, a Hunter alum himself, shares how he built meaningful relationships and became a club founder as a commuter.

💸 Affordability and Financial Aid Are Game Changers

Programs like TAP, Excelsior, and FAFSA-based aid make Hunter one of the most affordable 4-year colleges in the country. Jarvis shares his own powerful story of finishing college debt-free after personal hardship.

🔁 Transfer Pathways Open Doors

Students can start at other institutions and transfer to Hunter through dedicated support, personalized credit evaluation, and a new Transfer Center 🏫📤. There are always second chances in college admissions.

🎓 Why Hunter College?

🌇 Located in the heart of Manhattan, Hunter is deeply integrated with NYC’s cultural, professional, and research opportunities.
📚 Strong programs in nutrition and wellness, business (via a new certificate program), and selective options like Macaulay Honors College.
🧠 Committed to academic support and accessibility for students with IEPs, 504 plans, or those who are neurodiverse.
🌍 Over 75% of students receive financial aid.

📞 Resources Mentioned:

📢 Whether you're a student, parent, or counselor, this episode offers real-world guidance and NYC-based inspiration. Give it a listen and share with anyone exploring the CUNY system or seeking a high-impact, low-cost college option.

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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

344. Salve Regina University - Jim Fowler - VP for Enrollment Management Nov 24, 2025

Show notes

🎙️ The College Admissions Process Podcast (The CAPP)

Episode: Salve Regina University: Mission, Holistic Review & the Value of a Private Education

Guest: Jim Fowler, VP for Enrollment Management, Salve Regina University

Host: Dr. John Dante

www.salve.edu

🌊 About This Episode

In this episode, John speaks with Jim Fowler from Salve Regina University in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island. Jim shares what makes Salve stand out — from its mission-driven education and holistic review process to how students can find true academic, social, and financial fit.

🎓 Key Highlights

✨ Mission & Community: A Catholic university founded by the Sisters of Mercy, Salve welcomes all backgrounds, emphasizing mercy, justice, and compassion.

📘 The Salve Compass: Every student is guided by a team of advisors through a 4-year pathway connecting academics, co-curriculars, and career planning.

💬 Holistic Admissions: Academic rigor matters most, but essays, recommendations, and alignment with Salve’s mission can make a big difference.

🧭 Fit Over Perfection: Focus on growth and challenge, not just grades. Show your genuine interest and understanding of Salve’s values.

💰 Affordability & Value: Don’t be deterred by sticker price — financial aid often makes private education more affordable than families expect.

📈 ROI & Outcomes: Salve grads rank in the top 6% nationally for lifetime return on investment (Georgetown CEW data).

💡 Jim’s Advice for Students:

1️⃣ Know yourself and the environment where you’ll thrive.

2️⃣ Dive in and get involved — community matters.

3️⃣ Read, read, read — strong reading skills are key to success.

Thank you for tuning in to The CAP! 🎧

To learn more about Salve Regina or access the study mentioned in this episode, check out:

👉 Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce

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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

343. Florida Tech - Nick Galli - Admissions Counselor Nov 17, 2025

Show notes

🎙️In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nick Galli, an Admissions Counselor at Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech), located in sunny Melbourne, Florida 🌴. Florida Tech is nationally recognized for its STEM-focused programs, commitment to hands-on learning, and required standardized testing admissions policy — a perspective not often heard today. Whether you’re aiming for engineering, aerospace, cybersecurity, or marine biology, this conversation is packed with information that can help students and families make more informed decisions.

⭐️ Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode:

📊 Florida Tech Requires SAT/ACT Scores

Unlike many institutions that have moved to test-optional, Florida Tech still requires standardized test scores for all applicants. Nick breaks down how the scores are used alongside GPA and why they matter in the university's objective review process. This is crucial insight for students applying to schools that still emphasize testing. 📝

🚀 A Premier STEM Institution with Real-World Impact

With top-tier programs in aerospace engineering, oceanography, computer science, and aviation, Florida Tech is a destination for students who want a hands-on, research-driven education. Students often get involved in research and internships starting in their first year.

🎓 Holistic Review, But With a Focus on Academic Strength

While essays and letters of recommendation are optional, Florida Tech still looks at course rigor, grade trends, and school context. They also support international applicants and evaluate transcripts carefully across different grading systems.

💡 Support for Neurodiverse Students and a Tight-Knit Campus Community

Florida Tech offers structured academic support for students with IEPs or 504 plans and promotes a close-knit, inclusive environment where small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship make a real difference. 🧠

🏫 Fast Facts About Florida Tech:

📍 Located in Melbourne, FL, minutes from the Atlantic coast 🌊

🎓 Around 3,000 undergraduate students

🔬 Offers over 50 STEM-focused majors, from mechanical engineering to forensic psychology

🛩 Home to one of the top aerospace and aviation programs in the country

💰 Ranked highly for return on investment among private universities

🎧 Why This Episode Matters:

Whether you're a student drawn to STEM, a parent looking for transparency in admissions policies, or a counselor guiding students toward career-ready programs, this episode offers a refreshing and honest perspective. Nick Galli’s advice is straightforward, practical, and applicable to students of all backgrounds.

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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

342. Wayne State University — Dr. Charles Cotton, Vice Provost for Strategic Enrollment Management Nov 10, 2025

Show notes

🎙️ Episode: Wayne State University — Dr. Charles Cotton, Vice Provost for Strategic Enrollment Management

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, John Durante talks with Dr. Charles Cotton III about what makes Wayne State University unique: its urban location, research opportunities, student supports, career connections, and affordability. Wayne State is a top public research university and is classified as a Carnegie R1 (very high research activity). Wayne Today+1

3 key takeaways (what to focus on in your college research)

1) The city is the campus — Detroit = career advantage 🏙️➡️💼

Wayne State’s campus is embedded in Detroit — Dr. Cotton describes “porous walls” between campus and city where students live, learn, and play alongside Detroit. That translates into frequent in-person internship and partnership opportunities, strong local alumni connections, and a formal “college-to-career” emphasis that helps students convert classroom work into paid internships and real-world experience. Recent partnerships (for example, with Detroit City FC) make those opportunities concrete. Detroit City FC

Why this matters for your research: if you want hands-on experience or regional industry connections, prioritize schools whose location and partner network line up with the career paths you care about.

2) Research access starts early — look for UROP & undergraduate pipelines 🔬

Dr. Cotton stresses that research at Wayne State begins before day one for many students through their Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) and related initiatives that connect admitted students with faculty, scholarships, and funded projects. These programs make it possible for undergraduates to join faculty research and find grant/scholarship support early. UROP+1

Why this matters for your research: if undergraduate research is important to you, ask reps how soon first-years can join research, what matching/support looks like, and whether there are paid research/mentored options.

3) Real supports + affordability — Student Success 2.0 & tuition pledges 📚💰

Wayne State has been investing in student success and centralized supports (Student Success 2.0 and the Student Success Hub in the undergraduate library) to make advising, success coaches, career services, and financial aid easier to find. They also offer major affordability programs (e.g., the Wayne State Guarantee and Heart of Detroit pledge) that cover tuition/fees for eligible students. Dr. Cotton highlights first-year seminars, living-learning communities, and centralized help as part of the transition experience. Wayne Today+1

Why this matters for your research: retention and success programs + clear tuition pledges change net cost and outcomes — ask for exact eligibility rules and how supports are delivered (in person, virtual, one-on-one coaching).

Quick facts you can trust from the interview (and what to ask on a visit) ✍️

Wayne State is a Carnegie R1 research university and is ranked among the country’s top public research universities. Carnegie Classification+1
The university runs the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) to connect undergraduates with faculty research and funding. UROP
Wayne State has city partnerships that produce internship/experience pipelines (example: Detroit City FC partnership). Detroit City FC
The school launched Student Success 2.0 and a Student Success Hub to centralize advising, career, and financial aid supports. Wayne Today
Affordability programs include the Wayne State Guarantee (tuition pledge for eligible Michigan families) and the Heart of Detroit Tuition Pledge for Detroit residents/graduates. Wayne State University+1

Good questions for prospective students to ask Wayne State reps (straight from the interview):

“When and how can first-year students get involved in UROP or faculty research?” 🔬
“What does Student Success 2.0 / the Student Success Hub actually do for students day-to-day?” 📚
“What internships or paid opportunities come through your city partnerships (and how do students apply)?” 💼
“How does the Wayne State Guarantee or Heart of Detroit pledge work and who qualifies?” 💳
Do you offer direct pipeline programs (e.g., Wayne Med-Direct) for students aiming for medicine?” 🩺 Wayne State University Provost's Office

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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

341. University of Denver - Todd Rinehart - Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Nov 03, 2025

Show notes

🎙️ Episode: Inside Admissions with Todd Rinehart, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment at the University of Denver

Join me as I welcome back Todd Rinehart for an insightful conversation on major updates at the University of Denver (DU) and practical advice for students navigating the college application process. Todd reminds us that students control two-thirds of the admissions transaction — a powerful mindset shift for applicants everywhere.

💡 Highlights Include:

🏒 University Updates & the 4D Experience

DU celebrates its 10th National Hockey Championship — ranked #1 in the nation!
Learn about DU’s Four-Dimensional (4D) Student Experience, focused on:
1️⃣ Academics – Expanding intellectual growth
2️⃣ Character & Ethics – Building integrity and purpose
3️⃣ Well-being – Supporting mental and physical health
4️⃣ Career & Purpose – Preparing for meaningful professional lives
🌍 Study Abroad: 70%+ of students participate; scholarships and aid apply abroad.
🎓 Academics: A liberal arts foundation with standout programs in Business, Engineering, and Global Studies.

🧠 Holistic Review: What DU Really Looks For

Admissions seeks great classmates and community members, not just strong GPAs.
✍️ Essays: Be authentic — write to reveal who you are, not to impress.
📚 Rigor in Context: Take challenging courses where possible, but don’t overload.
🧾 Recommendations: Offer insight into character, work ethic, and engagement.

🎯 Test-Optional Policy & Financial Aid

🧪 Tests Optional: Submit SAT/ACT only if scores strengthen your file — academics matter most.
💰 Financial Aid: Don’t fear the sticker price — DU offers generous merit and need-based aid.
🎓 Automatic consideration for major scholarships like the $40,000 Chancellor’s Award.
🧾 FAFSA + CSS Profile required for full aid review.

📈 Enrollment, Waitlist & Smart Questions to Ask

DU receives ~20,000 apps annually, enrolling ~1,300 first-years.
🕓 Waitlist is not ranked; decisions depend on class needs — express genuine interest to your regional counselor.
🤔 Families should focus on long-term outcomes and value, not just rankings or salary data.

💬 Todd’s Top 3 Pieces of Advice

1️⃣ Students Control: Where to apply — build a balanced list, not just ultra-selective schools.

2️⃣ Students Influence: Outcomes through coursework, effort, and essays.

3️⃣ Students Control: Where to enroll — the final choice is yours.

🎧 Tune in to learn how DU helps students live lives of purpose, leadership, and service, and gain insider advice straight from one of the nation’s most respected enrollment leaders.

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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

340. Fairleigh Dickinson University - KirstyNicole Bocado - Admissions Counselor Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

🎙️In this episode, host John Durante sits down with KirstyNicole Bocado, an Admissions Counselor at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), to uncover what makes this New Jersey-based university a powerful choice for students seeking a global, personalized, and transformational education.

With campuses in Florham and Metropolitan NJ, plus an international campus at Wroxton College in England, FDU is a university that blends academic rigor with individualized support, and a commitment to preparing students to thrive in a culturally connected world. 🌐💬

From test-optional policies to experiential learning opportunities and support for neurodiverse students, this episode is a must-listen for any family navigating the college admissions process. 🎧

🎯 Top 5 Takeaways for Students & Families:

🌍 A Truly Global Education

FDU’s international focus comes to life through global learning experiences, a diverse student body, and the opportunity to study abroad at their Wroxton College campus in England — all while enjoying the feel of a close-knit U.S. campus community.

🤝 Holistic Admissions That See the Whole Student

FDU looks beyond test scores. Whether you’re submitting test-optional or not, the university values intellectual curiosity, cultural awareness, and the personal qualities that signal you'll thrive in their collaborative learning environment.

🔬 Hands-On Learning From Day One

FDU offers experiential learning early and often — from internships and research to service projects. Students are encouraged to apply classroom learning in real-world settings, starting as early as their first semester.

💙 Inclusive Support for All Learners

FDU provides comprehensive support for neurodiverse students, including those with IEPs or 504 plans. With a welcoming team and accessible resources, the university ensures every student is set up for success, both inside and outside the classroom.

💡 Guided Academic & Career Advising

Students at FDU benefit from intentional, personalized advising to help them explore majors, prepare for graduate school, and navigate career opportunities. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all model — it’s mentoring that matters.

📌 Quick Facts About FDU:

🏫 Two main campuses in NJ: Florham (suburban) & Metropolitan (urban)
🌍 International campus at Wroxton College, UK
👩‍🏫 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
💼 100+ undergraduate and graduate programs
🎓 Test-optional admissions
💵 Strong commitment to financial aid and merit scholarships
🌐 Students from over 50 countries
⚖️ GPA recalculated to ensure fairness across school systems

www.fdu.edu

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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

339. College Student Mini-Series - Katelyn, Columbia University - Student Athlete Oct 20, 2025

Show notes

🎙️ Episode: From Long Island to the Ivy League – A Student-Athlete’s Journey at Columbia University

In this special episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I had the honor of speaking with Katelyn, a sophomore at Columbia University 🦁 and a member of the women’s lacrosse team 🥍.

Katelyn takes us inside her journey as both a student and an athlete, sharing her path from Syosset, NY to the Ivy League, and the lessons she learned along the way.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

✨ Recruitment insights – how she navigated prospect camps, coach communication, and the September 1st timeline 📅.

✨ Sacrifices & rewards – what it really takes to balance summer training, missed social events, and the grind of being a Division I athlete 💪.

✨ Finding the right fit – why Columbia stood out not just athletically, but academically (hello, neuroscience + pre-med 🔬).

✨ Campus life revealed – how Columbia offers the best of both worlds: a serene campus 🌳 and the energy of New York City 🌆.

✨ Academic support for athletes – tutoring, wellness programs, and resources that set students up for success 📚.

✨ Biggest surprises – what she didn’t expect about balancing athletics and academics in college 🎓.

✨ Real talk advice – why you shouldn’t rush your commitment, how to block out comparison, and why being your authentic self matters most 🧭.

💡 Whether you’re a student-athlete (or a parent of one), or simply curious about the Ivy League experience, this episode is full of actionable advice and honest perspective from someone living it right now.

🎧 Tune in to hear Katelyn’s inspiring story and her guidance for students starting their own college journey!

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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

338. Grinnell College - Conner Stanfield - Assistant Director of Admission & Coordinator of Campus Visits Oct 13, 2025

Show notes

🎙️In this insightful episode, Conner Stanfield, Assistant Director of Admission & Coordinator of Campus Visits at Grinnell College joins us to dive deep into the student experience at one of the most academically rigorous and intentionally student-centered liberal arts colleges in the country. 🏫 Whether you're just starting your college search or narrowing down highly selective schools, this conversation will benefit all students and families navigating the admissions process.

⭐️ Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode:

📚 The Power of the Individually Advised Curriculum:

At Grinnell, there are no required general education courses. Instead, students work closely with advisors to design a personalized academic path that reflects their interests, goals, and intellectual curiosity. This level of academic freedom fosters creativity, independence, and a deep love of learning. 💡

💬 A Commitment to Critical Thinking and Open Dialogue:

Grinnell's academic culture thrives on intellectual inquiry, diversity of thought, and respectful discourse. Students are encouraged to ask bold questions, challenge assumptions, and explore a range of perspectives inside and outside the classroom.

🎓 Holistic, Equitable Admissions with a Test-Optional Policy:

Grinnell looks well beyond the numbers. They prioritize academic rigor, grade trends, and student context while ensuring equity in the process. Standardized test scores are optional, and the admissions team takes great care in evaluating each applicant’s unique story, potential, and fit for the Grinnell community. 🌍

💸 A No-Loan Financial Aid Policy That Makes Grinnell Accessible:

Grinnell meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans, helping students graduate debt-free. The college is deeply committed to affordability and access — a rare but incredibly important policy in today’s higher ed landscape. 🏦

🏫 Quick Facts About Grinnell College:

📍 Located in Grinnell, Iowa, halfway between Des Moines and Iowa City

🎓 Enrolls approximately 1,700 students from all 50 states and over 60 countries

🌟 Ranked among the top national liberal arts colleges

🔬 Over 60% of students participate in undergraduate research or internships

📖 Home to more than 500 course offerings with individualized academic advising

🌍 Known for social responsibility, inclusivity, and global perspective

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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

www.collegeadmissionstalk.com