The College Admissions Process Podcast

In this episode, I welcome back Tim Fields, Senior Associate Dean of Admission at Emory University. We discuss Emory’s unique two-campus model, the realities of applying to highly selective colleges, and what students can do to stand out in an applicant pool of more than 40,000 students. Tim also shares valuable insights on essays, testing, rankings, and maintaining perspective throughout the admissions process.

Key Topics Discussed

Emory's Two-Campus Experience

Learn the differences between Emory’s Atlanta and Oxford campuses and how students transition seamlessly to complete their degrees at Emory University.

Sele...

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante welcomes back Rick Barth, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Clemson University, for an in-depth conversation about Clemson’s increasingly competitive admissions landscape.

With more than 65,000 applications submitted this past cycle, Clemson continues to experience record growth while carefully managing enrollment to maintain quality and student experience. Rick shares how the admissions team evaluates applications in a highly selective environment, including transcript review, academic rigor, and the role of institutional priorities such as in-state enrollment and high-demand majors.

Listeners will gain insight into Clemson’s us...

🎙 Episode: Inside Michigan State Admissions with Larry Alterman

In this episode, host Dr. John Durante welcomes back Larry Alterman, Assistant Director and Manager of East Coast Recruitment at Michigan State University (MSU). Larry gives an insider’s look at what’s new on campus and shares how students can shine in MSU’s holistic review process. 🌟

Key Highlights & Takeaways:

In this episode, I sat down with Deputy Dean Veronica Hauad of the University of Chicago to explore what the university calls the “life of the mind” — and what that truly means for applicants.

If you’ve ever wondered how one of the most intellectually rigorous universities in the country evaluates students, this conversation pulls back the curtain.

From the Core Curriculum to the famously creative essay prompts, Deputy Dean Hauad shares exactly what UChicago looks for — and why intellectual curiosity matters more than a résumé packed with achievements.

What You’ll Learn in This...

Navigating Admissions at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy: Purpose, Service, and the 200-Week Journey

What does it really take to earn a place at the United States Coast Guard Academy — and succeed once you arrive?

In this episode, I sit down with CAPT Drew Behnke, Director of Admissions, and Katherine Fainer, Deputy Director of Admissions, to explore one of the most mission-driven college pathways in the nation. With a humanitarian focus on saving lives, no congressional nomination requirement, and a rigorous STEM-based leadership curriculum, this is a college experience unlike any other.

We...

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I am joined by Amanda Brady, Dean of Admissions at Nazareth University, for an honest and insightful conversation about the realities of today’s college admissions process—and what students often misunderstand when applying to college.

Amanda shares how applications are truly reviewed at Nazareth University, why context matters more than perfection, and what separates memorable essays from forgettable ones. She also discusses the growing role of AI in higher education, the importance of demonstrated interest, and why students should focus less on rankings and more on finding the...

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with representatives from Denison University to take a closer look at the admissions process at a highly selective liberal arts college.

From Denison’s philosophy of the “multi-interested” student to a behind-the-scenes look at how applications are reviewed, this conversation offers valuable insights for students and families navigating the college search.

Featured Guests

Key Takeaways

The “Multi-Interested” Student

De...

🎙️ It was an honor to welcome back Bruce Bunnick, Director of Admissions at Lehigh University, to discuss how this R1 research university maintains the heart of a liberal arts college. They cover Lehigh’s interdisciplinary academics, holistic admissions process, and strategies for students navigating a test-optional environment.

Key Takeaways ✅

🎙️ University of Alaska Fairbanks: Research, Adventure, and a Test-Free Admissions Process

What’s it really like to attend the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)—the smallest flagship university in the U.S. and a major research powerhouse?

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante speaks with Palmer H. Muntz, Senior Regional Admissions Counselor at UAF, for a behind-the-scenes look at academics, campus culture, and admissions.

🏔️ Why Students Choose UAF

🔬 Big Res...

🎙️ Episode: Exploring UC Santa Cruz – Holistic Admissions, Research, and Student Life 🌊🌲

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host Dr. John Dante sits down with Jasmine Tule and Beatrice Atkinson-Myers to explore the unique educational experience at UC Santa Cruz. As the second-smallest campus in the UC system, UCSC offers a close-knit community nestled between the Redwood Forest and the Pacific Ocean, with a strong focus on environmental stewardship, social justice, and interdisciplinary research.

💡 Inside this episode, you’ll learn about:

In this episode, Dr. John Durante welcomes back Carlos Cano, the Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. Carlos provides an insider's look at how Stevens evaluates applicants, the introduction of a groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence major, and the university’s commitment to affordability through the new "Stevens Investment" program. Whether you are a student aiming for a career in STEM or a parent navigating the "passenger seat" of the admissions journey, this conversation offers practical advice on standing out in a competitive field.

Key Takeaways:

• New Affordability Initiatives: Stevens has...

🎙️ In this episode I speak with with Casey Campbell, Assistant Director of Admissions at University of Idaho, about what makes the Vandal experience unique:

🌟 Campus Culture: The “Hello Walk” keeps students and faculty connected through friendly greetings—every day.

🔬 Early Research Access: Two-thirds of undergrads engage in research, often before senior year.

📅 Rolling Admissions & Financial Planning: Apply early to secure housing and plan finances.

💰 Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE): Save ~$16k/year for western students—stackable with GPA-based scholarships.

✏️ Additional Info Section: Use it to explain context for grades or outside responsibilities.

🎙️ Claremont McKenna College: Mission, Fit & Holistic Admissions

Guest: Jennifer Sandoval-Dance, VP for Admission & Financial Aid at CMC

In this episode, Jennifer returns to break down what’s new at Claremont McKenna and what truly matters in their admissions review. If you’re applying to CMC—or any selective liberal arts college—this is a must-listen.

🌟 What We Cover:

• New academic and campus developments, including the Open Academy and the Kravis Department of Integrated Sciences

• How CMC’s mission of leadership and responsible citizenship drives everything—from courses to the review process

• W...

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:

Expa...

🎓 Navigating the Admissions Journey with Agnes Scott College

In this episode of The College Admissions Process podcast, Dr. John Durante sits down with Miya Walker, Director of Admission at Agnes Scott College, to explore what makes this historic women’s college truly distinctive. Located in Decatur, Georgia—just minutes from downtown Atlanta—Agnes Scott offers a close-knit, academically rigorous community designed to help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

🌍 The Summit Experience

Miya breaks down Agnes Scott’s signature Summit Experience, a required three-pillar program that prepares students for life after college:

Creative Thought Matters: Navigating Admissions at Skidmore College

Episode Overview

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante sits down with Dr. Janessa Dunn, Director of Admissions at Skidmore College, to pull back the curtain on the admissions process at one of the nation’s premier liberal arts colleges.

Located in the quintessential college town of Saratoga Springs, Skidmore is a campus where “Creative Thought Matters” and interdisciplinary exploration are central to the student experience. In this conversation, Dr. Dunn shares how admissions officers evaluate applications, what truly stands out in...

🎙️ UC Berkeley Admissions with Jua Howard — Assistant Director of Admissions returns with powerful insights you won’t want to miss. 💛💙

⭐ What Makes Berkeley Stand Out

UC Berkeley isn’t just the UC flagship — it’s a global powerhouse in research, innovation, and public service. 🌎

📚 Academics That Push Boundaries

150+ majors across top colleges, a brand-new College of Computing, and elite dual-degree programs like M.E.T. (Engineering + Business).

Plus: student-taught Decal classes (yes, even Taylor Swift economics!) and global dual-degree options in France and Hong Kong. 🌍📖

💡 A Mission of Service & Change

From the Fre...

🎙️In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Jennifer Gayles to unpack what makes Sarah Lawrence College one of the most distinctive liberal arts environments in the country. We dive into SLC’s interdisciplinary, writing-intensive curriculum and its signature four-year faculty mentorship model that supports every student from day one. 📚🧠

Jennifer also opens the door to SLC’s holistic admissions review, breaking down how essays are evaluated, the importance of optional materials, and what “rigor” truly means in context. Her guidance on supplemental essays, interviews, creative portfolios, and self-reflection is incredibly useful for any student con...

🎙 Episode Summary:

Join Alyson Remsing - Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management at Drew University as she gives an inside look at the "University in the Forest"—and its holistic admissions process. From Early Decision perks to maximizing your application, this episode is packed with insights for students and families.

🌳 Key Highlights:

🎙️ Spotlight on Carleton College

Guest: Adam Webster, Senior Associate Dean and Director of Admissions

In this episode, Adam Webster shares insight into Carleton College’s distinctive academic culture and holistic admissions process.

📚 The Trimester Advantage

Carleton’s 10-week trimester system allows students to focus on three courses at a time, encouraging depth, engagement, and resilience.

🔬 A True Liberal Arts Experience

While over half of students major in STEM fields, Carleton remains deeply committed to interdisciplinary learning and exceptional undergraduate teaching.

📝 Holistic Review in Action

Applications are...

Navigating the Modern College Admissions Landscape with Rick Clark

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I welcome back Rick Clark, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at Georgia Institute of Technology and co-author of The Truth About College Admissions. With decades of experience leading enrollment at one of the nation’s premier STEM institutions, Rick offers thoughtful insight into the seismic shifts reshaping college admissions — and what families must understand to navigate this process wisely.

We begin with the evolution of STEM and the changing landscape of Computer Science. Rick explains how artificial inte...

🎙️ On this episode I sat down with Dr. Kerr C. Ramsay III, Senior VP for Enrollment at High Point University (HPU), for a deep dive into HPU’s educational philosophy, its focus on life skills, and what truly makes an applicant stand out.

Dr. Ramsey breaks down HPU’s four pillars, explains why who you become matters just as much as your academics, and shares clear, practical tips for transcripts, recommendations, and supplementals.

If you want real insight into how a values-driven, future-focused university evaluates potential, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧✨

🔑 Key Discussion Points

🎓...

🎙️ I had the pleasure of sitting down with Pamela Pillo, Assistant Vice President of Undergraduate Admissions at Sacred Heart University (SHU), to give students, parents, and counselors valuable insights into SHU and the admissions process as a whole.

Here are 3 key highlights from our conversation that you won’t want to miss:

✨ Holistic Review Process – Pamela breaks down how SHU evaluates applications, including the weight given to GPA, essays, extracurriculars, and demonstrated interest. She also shares how trends in admissions have shifted in recent years and what applicants can do to stand out.

🎓 Competitive Pr...

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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

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Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applic...

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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 Applic...

📬 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 Applic...

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SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host Dr. John Durante sits down with Dr. Angel Perez, CEO of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), for a powerful conversation about college admissions, access, affordability, and authenticity.

Dr. Perez shares his inspiring journey from growing up in the South Bronx as a first-generation college student to becoming one of the most influential leaders in higher education today—offering insight every student, parent, counselor, and educator shoul...

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SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante welcomes Rachel Marlowe, Admissions Counselor at Franklin & Marshall College, to explore how F&M supports students through a deeply personalized, community-first approach to admissions. ❤️📚 From transparent financial aid to what “fit” really means at a liberal arts college, this conversation is packed with value for students, families, and counselors navigating the college process.

✅ Whether you're curious about merit scholarships, what makes a standout essay, or how to show authentic int...

📬 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

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🎙️ Navigating the Digital SAT, National Merit, and Scholarship Success

wi...

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SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

🎓 Podcast Show Notes: Colorado State University (CSU)

Guest: Heather Daniels, Executive Director of Admissions, Colorado State University

Host: Dr. John Durante, The College Admissions Process Podcast

📍 About Colorado State University

📊...

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SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

🎙️ In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, host John Durante sits down with Megan Starling, Director of Admission at Rhodes College 🎓 — a nationally recognized liberal arts institution located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. Known for its tight-knit community and powerful blend of classroom learning and real-world experience, Rhodes offers students a unique place to learn, grow, and thrive.

Whether you're a student building your college list or a parent navigating the admissions maze, this episode provides must...

🎙️ In this insightful episode, we welcome back the University of Oregon to the podcast! Joelle Rankins Goodwin provides an inside look at what’s new on campus since their last feature in 2023, what joining the Big Ten means beyond athletics, and how students can strategically navigate the UO admissions process. Whether you're applying this fall or just beginning your college research, this episode is packed with relevant, timely, and honest insights for all students and families 🧠💡.

🟢 Top 4 Takeaways for Students & Families:

1. 🎯 A Truly Holistic Admissions Process

Joelle shares that UO’s admissions review is contextual and hol...

🎙️ Inside Sewanee Admissions – What You Need to Know!

📍 Guest: Sarah Butler, Assistant Dean of Admission, Office of Admission & Financial Aid

Are you considering a liberal arts college that combines academic rigor, strong community, and stunning natural surroundings? 🌲📚 Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Sarah Butler from Sewanee: The University of the South, where we unpack what makes Sewanee unique — and what students and families need to know before applying.

🔑 TOP 3 TAKEAWAYS for Your College Research Journey:

1️⃣ 🎓 A Place for the Intellectually Curious

Sewanee is a liberal arts college with a strong academic foundat...

🎓 In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast we welcome back the College of Charleston 🌴, this time featuring Ashley Holdridge, Regional Assistant Director of Admissions. Building on the college’s original appearance in Episode 195 📚, Ashley offers fresh insight into what continues to make Charleston a vibrant and attractive destination — especially for students from the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions 🗺️.

Ashley shares a compelling overview of academic life at Charleston, where a liberal arts foundation 🧠 meets career-ready pathways 💼 in high-impact programs like:

From internships at the Charleston Music Hall 🎶 to hands-on field research on the water 🐚, r...

🎙️In this return visit to the podcast, Kelli Nienstedt — formerly in the admissions office and now Assistant Director of Student Activities — brings a unique dual perspective on what makes the Marist University experience stand out 🦊. Whether you’re applying to college, supporting your student, or guiding others through the process, this episode is filled with helpful insights, student support strategies, and admissions tips you won’t want to miss.

🔑 Top 3 Takeaways for Students & Families:

1. 🎯 What Makes a Strong Marist Applicant

Kelli shares what stood out during her time on the admissions committee:

✅ Academic rigor wit...

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 pract...

🎙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.

💡...

🎓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

🎙️ 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

✨ Missi...

🎙️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...