The College Admissions Process Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: John Durante

Welcome to "The College Admissions Process Podcast," your ultimate resource for navigating the journey to higher education while receiving application tips and other college advice. I am your host, John Durante, and I am here to introduce you to college admissions representatives, and other professionals in the field of college admissions. Our purpose is to serve you the students and parents, so that you may gain insight straight from the people who ultimately make the decisions. Regardless of whether you will apply to a particular school being highlighted in a given podcast episode, you should listen to all of them...

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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 episode artwork
Today at 4:00 AM

Exploring The College of Wooster with Jason McGrath

In 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...


388. University of Tennessee Admissions: What Students Need to Know
388. University of Tennessee Admissions: What Students Need to Know episode artwork
08/17/2026

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...


387. Howard University Admissions: What Every Applicant Needs to Know
387. Howard University Admissions: What Every Applicant Needs to Know episode artwork
08/10/2026

What makes Howard University one of the most distinctive institutions in higher education? In this episode, Dr. John Durante welcomes Brie Mercedes, Admissions Officer at Howard University, for an insightful conversation about the university's admissions process, its culture, and what students can do to submit their strongest application.

As one of the nation's premier research universities and a nationally recognized HBCU, Howard offers students an environment where academic excellence, leadership, service, and identity intersect. Brie explains how Howard's holistic admissions process goes far beyond grades and test scores, emphasizing authenticity, intellectual curiosity, community impact, and a clear...


386. Inside Admissions at St. Olaf College with David Wagner: What Makes a Standout Applicant
386. Inside Admissions at St. Olaf College with David Wagner: What Makes a Standout Applicant episode artwork
08/03/2026

In this episode, John Durante speaks with David Wagner, Director of Admissions, about what makes St. Olaf distinctive—from its Lutheran-rooted liberal arts foundation to its strong sense of community and purpose. With over 20 years of experience, Wagner provides insight into how the college evaluates applicants and builds a values-driven campus.

Key Topics Covered

Mission & Identity: A focus on intellectual exploration, interfaith dialogue, and meaningful contribution

Collaborative Culture: High-achieving, thoughtful students in a supportive, “doer”-oriented environment

Holistic Review Process:

Context-driven, territory-based application readingEmphasis on transcript strength and course rigorTest-optional policy...


385. Long Island University Admissions: How to Choose the Right College Fit
385. Long Island University Admissions: How to Choose the Right College Fit episode artwork
07/27/2026

Long Island University Admissions: Finding the Right Fit for College Success

Guest: Michael Berthel, Vice President for Student Affairs and Admissions, Long Island University

Episode Summary

What happens after a student is admitted to college? How can families identify a university that will help students thrive—not only academically, but personally and professionally?

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante sits down with Michael Berthel, Vice President for Student Affairs and Admissions at Long Island University (LIU), for an insightful conversation about the evolving college experience an...


384. Amherst College Admissions Explained: How to Stand Out to Top Liberal Arts Colleges
384. Amherst College Admissions Explained: How to Stand Out to Top Liberal Arts Colleges episode artwork
07/20/2026

Podcast Episode: Navigating Amherst College Admissions with Dr. Matthew L. McGann

In this episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, Dr. John Durante sits down with Dr. Matthew L. McGann, Vice President and Dean of Admission & Financial Aid at Amherst College, for an inside look at how one of the nation’s most selective liberal arts colleges evaluates applicants.

What really matters beyond grades and test scores? How does Amherst’s Open Curriculum shape both the student experience and the admissions process? And what are admissions officers actually looking for when they read your application?


383. University of Scranton Admissions: A Conversation with Hugh Doyle, Director of Undergraduate Admissions
383. University of Scranton Admissions: A Conversation with Hugh Doyle, Director of Undergraduate Admissions episode artwork
07/13/2026

In this episode, I sit down with Hugh Doyle, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Scranton, for a transparent look inside the college admissions process. From transcript review to essay evaluation, this conversation breaks down what truly matters — and what students often misunderstand.

Rooted in the Jesuit principle of Cura Personalis — care for the whole person — Scranton’s admissions philosophy focuses on developing mind, body, and spirit. Students of all faith backgrounds are welcomed, and the review process reflects a commitment to understanding the full story behind each application.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:<...


382. Inside Ithaca College Admissions: What Really Matters (GPA, Test-Optional & Scholarships)
382. Inside Ithaca College Admissions: What Really Matters (GPA, Test-Optional & Scholarships) episode artwork
07/06/2026

In this episode I am happy to welcome back Jessica Dietrich, Senior Associate Director for Recruitment Strategy, to explore what’s happening right now in admissions at Ithaca College—and what families need to know.

Jessica explains Ithaca’s commitment to “theory, practice, and performance,” blending a strong liberal arts foundation with hands-on learning. While transcripts remain the strongest predictor of success, Ithaca reviews applications holistically and contextually—asking not just what a student achieved, but how they challenged themselves within their environment.

Though founded as a music conservatory, Ithaca is far more than the arts. With 2...


381. Emory University Admissions: How to Stand Out with Tim Fields
381. Emory University Admissions: How to Stand Out with Tim Fields episode artwork
06/29/2026

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...


380. Inside Clemson Admissions with Rick Barth, Director of Undergraduate Admissions
380. Inside Clemson Admissions with Rick Barth, Director of Undergraduate Admissions episode artwork
06/22/2026

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...


379. Michigan State - Larry Alterman - Assistant Director and Manager of East Coast Recruitment
379. Michigan State - Larry Alterman - Assistant Director and Manager of East Coast Recruitment episode artwork
06/15/2026

🎙 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:

🏫 What’s New at MSU: Explore major campus developments including a massive STEM teaching & research building, a new Multicultural Center, and a 293,000-square-foot fitness & wellness center opening this May.🤝 The Philosophy of Support: MSU is serious about studen...


378. How the University of Chicago Evaluates “Fit” — From the Core Curriculum to Creative Essays
378. How the University of Chicago Evaluates “Fit” — From the Core Curriculum to Creative Essays episode artwork
06/08/2026

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...


377. United States Coast Guard Acedemy - CAPT Drew Behnke, Director of Admissions, and Katherine Fainer, Deputy Director of Admissions
377. United States Coast Guard Acedemy - CAPT Drew Behnke, Director of Admissions, and Katherine Fainer, Deputy Director of Admissions episode artwork
06/01/2026

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...


376. What Admissions Officers Really Look For | Inside Nazareth University Admissions
376. What Admissions Officers Really Look For | Inside Nazareth University Admissions episode artwork
05/25/2026

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...


375. Inside Denison University Admissions: What Applicants Should Know
375. Inside Denison University Admissions: What Applicants Should Know episode artwork
05/18/2026

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

Jesse Leary Yagher – Director of Recruitment, Denison UniversityCaitlin Ladda – Director of Selection, Denison UniversityGrace Ostrosky – Current sophomore, studying Creative Writing & Journalism

Key Takeaways

The “Multi-Interested” Student

De...


374. Lehigh University - Bruce Bunnick - Director of Admissions
374. Lehigh University - Bruce Bunnick - Director of Admissions episode artwork
05/11/2026

🎙️ 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 ✅

The Lehigh Identity: ~6,000 undergrads across Arts & Sciences, Business, Engineering, and Health. Interdisciplinary options let students mix majors and minors across fields.Holistic Review & Personal Voice: Essays matter—“give voice to an otherwise voiceless application.” A memorable essay can tip the scales. ✍️Context is Key: Students are evaluated within their high s...


373. University of Alaska Fairbanks - Palmer H. Muntz - Senior Regional Admissions Counselor
373. University of Alaska Fairbanks - Palmer H. Muntz - Senior Regional Admissions Counselor episode artwork
05/04/2026

🎙️ 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

A welcoming, inclusive campus with strong Indigenous representationIdeal for adventurous, independent students—indoors or outdoorsLGBTQ- and military-friendly community

🔬 Big Res...


372. UC Santa Cruz - Jasmine Tule and Beatrice Atkinson-Myers
372. UC Santa Cruz - Jasmine Tule and Beatrice Atkinson-Myers episode artwork
04/27/2026

🎙️ 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:

How 75% of students engage in research projects before graduation 🌱🔬Innovative programs like the Global and Comm...


371. Stevens Institute of Technology - Carlos Cano - Director of Undergraduate Admissions
371. Stevens Institute of Technology - Carlos Cano - Director of Undergraduate Admissions episode artwork
04/20/2026

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...


370. University of Idaho - Casey Campbell - Assistant Director of Admissions
370. University of Idaho - Casey Campbell - Assistant Director of Admissions episode artwork
04/13/2026

🎙️ 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.

...


369. Claremont McKenna College - Jennifer Sandoval-Danc - VP for Admission & Financial Aid
369. Claremont McKenna College - Jennifer Sandoval-Danc - VP for Admission & Financial Aid episode artwork
04/06/2026

🎙️ 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...


383. University of Tennessee Admissions: What Students Need to Know
383. University of Tennessee Admissions: What Students Need to Know episode artwork
04/04/2026

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...


368. Agnes Scott College - Miya Walker - Director of Admission
368. Agnes Scott College - Miya Walker - Director of Admission episode artwork
04/01/2026

🎓 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:

Gl...


367. Inside College Admissions at Skidmore College: Essays, Test-Optional Advice, and What Really Matters
367. Inside College Admissions at Skidmore College: Essays, Test-Optional Advice, and What Really Matters episode artwork
03/30/2026

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...


366. UC Berkeley - Jua Howard - Assistant Director of Admissions
366. UC Berkeley - Jua Howard - Assistant Director of Admissions episode artwork
03/23/2026

🎙️ 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...


365. Sarah Lawrence College - Jennifer Gayles - Director of Admission & Inclusive Outreach
365. Sarah Lawrence College - Jennifer Gayles - Director of Admission & Inclusive Outreach episode artwork
03/18/2026

🎙️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...


364. Drew University - Alyson Remsing - Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management
364. Drew University - Alyson Remsing - Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management episode artwork
03/16/2026

🎙 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:

Campus + City: Safe, green campus in Madison, NJ, just 50 minutes from NYC, with programs at Wall Street and the UN.Early Decision Benefits: Priority registration, special perks, and yes, even on-campus parking for freshmen.Holistic Review: Counselors assigned by region “champion” your file, making...


363. Carleton College - Adam Webster, Senior Associate Dean and Director of Admissions
363. Carleton College - Adam Webster, Senior Associate Dean and Director of Admissions episode artwork
03/09/2026

🎙️ 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...


362. Inside Georgia Tech Admissions: A Conversation with Rick Clark
362. Inside Georgia Tech Admissions: A Conversation with Rick Clark episode artwork
03/02/2026

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...


361. Inside Admissions at High Point University: The Life Skills Advantage
361. Inside Admissions at High Point University: The Life Skills Advantage episode artwork
02/25/2026

🎙️ 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

🎓...


360. How Sacred Heart University Evaluates Applicants: GPA, Scholarships, and Standing Out
360. How Sacred Heart University Evaluates Applicants: GPA, Scholarships, and Standing Out episode artwork
02/23/2026

🎙️ 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...


359. Financial Aid - Anne Rusk - Associate Director of Financial Aid - Colorado School of Mines
359. Financial Aid - Anne Rusk - Associate Director of Financial Aid - Colorado School of Mines episode artwork
02/18/2026

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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...


358. Colorado School of Mines - Dr. Jen Gagne - Executive Director of Admissions
358. Colorado School of Mines - Dr. Jen Gagne - Executive Director of Admissions episode artwork
02/16/2026

📬 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...


357. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) - Meghan Werth - Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions
357. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) - Meghan Werth - Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions episode artwork
02/09/2026

📬 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...


356. College Admissions Insights from NACAC CEO Dr. Angel Perez
356. College Admissions Insights from NACAC CEO Dr. Angel Perez episode artwork
02/04/2026

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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...


355. Franklin & Marshall College - Rachel Marlowe - Admissions Counselor
355. Franklin & Marshall College - Rachel Marlowe - Admissions Counselor episode artwork
02/02/2026

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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...


354. Digital SAT & Test Prep Secrets: Boost Scores with Prep Expert CEO Shaan Patel
354. Digital SAT & Test Prep Secrets: Boost Scores with Prep Expert CEO Shaan Patel episode artwork
01/28/2026

📬 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...


353. Colorado State University - Heather Daniels - Executive Director of Admissions
353. Colorado State University - Heather Daniels - Executive Director of Admissions episode artwork
01/26/2026

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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

Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, about an hour north of Denver and at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.A land-grant university known for agriculture, engineering, business, natural resources, and liberal arts.Mission-driven with a strong focus on access, service, and real-world impact.

📊...


352. Rhodes College - Megan Starling - Director of Admission
352. Rhodes College - Megan Starling - Director of Admission episode artwork
01/19/2026

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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...


351. University of Oregon - Joelle Rankins Goodwin - Senior Associate Director for Recruitment and Outreach
351. University of Oregon - Joelle Rankins Goodwin - Senior Associate Director for Recruitment and Outreach episode artwork
01/12/2026

🎙️ 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...