White Coat Club

Applying to a BS/MD program is rarely as simple as submitting one application and waiting for a decision. Many programs have multiple stages, including the initial undergraduate application, supplemental materials, additional essays, interview invitations, and final decisions that may arrive months later.

In this episode of White Coat Club, Nicole and Amanda break down the BS/MD application process from start to finish. We explain how programs differ in their application requirements, what students should expect after submitting their initial applications, when supplemental applications and interviews may occur, and why staying organized throughout the fall and...

You’ve spent months building your college list, perfecting your personal statement, and working on your activities list. Now it’s time to hit submit! But what happens after you send in your first Common App?

In this episode of White Coat Club, we walk through the final Common App submission checklist, explain which supporting materials may need to be sent separately, and break down what happens behind the scenes once your application reaches a college. We also discuss applicant portals, missing documents, official test scores, and what to do after submitting your first application.

Whet...

Extracurriculars: How to Pick What to Invest Your Time In

When it comes to college admissions, students often feel like they need to do it all—join clubs, volunteer, pursue research, shadow a physician, take on leadership roles, play sports, find an internship, or even start a nonprofit or passion project.

But more activities don’t necessarily make a stronger application.

In this episode, we talk about how students can be more intentional about the extracurriculars they choose and, more importantly, where they invest their time. We discuss why colleges aren’t looking for a...

Emotional Maturity + Self-Awareness: What Do Colleges Really Want to See?

What does it actually mean for a 17-year-old to sound “mature” in a college essay?

In this episode, we explore the fine line between demonstrating meaningful life experience and trying too hard to sound wise beyond your years. A strong college essay doesn’t require a dramatic story, an extraordinary accomplishment, or a claim to have solved the world’s biggest problems. Instead, admissions readers want to see students who understand themselves, can reflect on their experiences, and are beginning to recognize the complexity of the worl...

TikTok, Reddit, Instagram, and other social media platforms are filled with college admissions advice—and some of it is genuinely helpful. But some of it is misleading, outdated, or missing a whole lot of context.

In this episode, we’re tackling some of the biggest college admissions myths we hear from students and parents online and separating what’s actually true from what just sounds convincing on the internet.

We’ll explore:

Letters of recommendation can feel like one of the most confusing parts of the college application process. Who should you ask? When should you ask? What should you give your recommender? And once the letter is written, how do you actually get it to each college?

In this episode, we’re breaking down everything students need to know about letters of recommendation, from choosing the right recommenders to making sure their letters successfully reach colleges.

We’ll cover:

Research is one of the most valuable experiences for students interested in medicine, BS/MD programs, and other healthcare careers—but finding opportunities can feel overwhelming, especially for high school students who don't know where to start.

In this episode, Nicole and Muskan break down the different types of research available to students, how to find opportunities, and what it takes to become a valuable member of a research team. They discuss everything from summer research programs and independent projects to reaching out to professors and physicians for mentorship opportunities.

They also share practical advice on...

Shadowing is one of the most valuable experiences for students considering careers in healthcare—but many students aren't sure where to start or how to make the most of the opportunity once they get it.

In this episode, Nicole and Muskan break down why shadowing matters, especially for students interested in BS/MD programs, pre-med pathways, and other healthcare careers. They discuss practical strategies for finding shadowing opportunities, including leveraging family connections, reaching out to physicians' offices, exploring hospital volunteer programs, and using LinkedIn professionally.

They also share tips on what students should do before, du...

What does it really take to earn a spot in one of the nation's most competitive BS/MD programs? In this episode, we take an inside look at the Pre-Professional Scholars Program (PPSP) at Case Western Reserve University through the firsthand experience of Muskan, who matriculated through the program and is currently in her third year of medical school at Case Western.

We begin by exploring what makes PPSP such a sought-after pathway for aspiring physicians. With access to a top-tier medical education, world-class healthcare systems, and countless clinical and research opportunities throughout Northeast Ohio, the program...

Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly common tool in education, but where should it fit into the college application process? In this episode, we explore the growing role of AI in admissions and discuss the critical difference between using AI as a helpful resource and allowing it to replace your authentic voice.

We begin with an important disclaimer: AI-generated essays should never be submitted as your own work in a college application. Admissions officers are looking for genuine student stories, experiences, and perspectives—not content created by a chatbot. While AI can be a useful tool for br...

The 2025–2026 admissions cycle brought record-breaking application numbers, growing waitlists, increased deferrals, and valuable lessons for future applicants. In this episode, we reflect on key trends from this year's admissions landscape and discuss what students can learn from those outcomes as they prepare for their own college journey.

We dive into the numbers behind one of the most competitive cycles yet, including the University of California system receiving more than 252,000 applications and Common App reporting 1.4 million first-year applicants. We also discuss the rise in waitlists, deferrals, and spring semester admissions programs at universities such as Case Western Reserve an...

In this episode, we break down the biggest mistake students make during application season: waiting too long to start the pieces they could have completed earlier. From essays and letters of recommendation to resumes, transcripts, testing, and application timelines, we cover the key tasks students should tackle before deadlines start piling up.

We discuss why personal statements and “Why Medicine?” or “Why Major?” essays should be drafted well before senior year gets busy, how preparing activity descriptions early can reduce stress later on, and why asking for letters of recommendation in advance is one of the smartest things s...

In the college and medical school admissions process, not getting your first choice can feel devastating — but it does not mean your goals are out of reach. In this episode, we discuss the many pathways students can take when things do not go according to plan A.

Nicole & Muskan explore what students can do if they do not gain admission to a BS/MD program, how transferring colleges can sometimes be the right fit, and why it is important to fully invest in the opportunities in front of you while still keeping future options open.

Fo...

What does it really take to get involved in scientific research as a student — even with no prior coding or research experience?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ryan, an Adjunct Professor of Physics at Purdue University Fort Wayne and a world-renowned expert in computational astrophysics, to discuss how students can break into real scientific research earlier than they think.

From studying galaxy formation on some of the world’s most powerful supercomputers to contributing to a James Webb Space Telescope proposal, Dr. Ryan shares how curiosity—not prior experience—is often the most imp...

In this episode, we sit down with research expert and MD/PhD candidate Loren to explore why research is one of the most powerful experiences a high school student can pursue.

Currently completing her PhD in public health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Loren shares her journey from her first college lab experience at Florida Atlantic University to earning a Master’s in Global Health at Duke University—and ultimately into the world of physician-scientist training.

We break down what research actually looks like for students, the different types of research (from...

Today’s episode is a special one. We’re breaking down exactly how rising seniors should prepare for college admissions season—month by month—while introducing Moon Prep’s exclusive summer program, Application IQ.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about where to start, when to begin essays, or how to stay organized, this episode gives you a clear, strategic roadmap from spring through the start of senior year.

We walk through:

In this episode, Nicole is joined by Michaela, a passion project expert, to explore one of the most meaningful ways students can stand out in the college admissions process: passion projects.

The conversation begins by defining what a passion project truly is and why these initiatives have become increasingly valuable in holistic admissions. Rather than simply adding another activity to a resume, passion projects allow students to explore their genuine interests, demonstrate initiative, and create meaningful impact in areas they care about.

Nicole and Michaela discuss when students should begin thinking about passion projects, how...

Building a college list is one of the most important — and often misunderstood — parts of the college admissions process. In this episode, Nicole and Muskan break down a clear framework for how students can thoughtfully build a balanced and strategic college list.

They begin by discussing the importance of self-evaluation. Early in high school, students may not yet know their GPA trajectory, standardized test scores, or academic interests, which makes exploration an important first step. As students move into junior year and their academic profile becomes clearer, they can begin evaluating how their GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and...

Parents: How to Best Support Juniors in the College Admissions Process

Junior year is when the college admissions process shifts from abstract to real. In Part 2 of this parent-focused series, Nicole and Muskan break down how families can thoughtfully prepare for application season before senior year begins.

This episode walks parents through the strategic steps that matter most during junior year: being intentional about college visits, researching schools before stepping on campus, and exposing students to a range of institutional types — from large public universities to private institutions, STEM-focused programs, and liberal arts colleges. Nicole an...

In this episode, hosts Nicole and Muskan walk students and families through one of the most emotionally charged parts of the college admissions process: waiting for decisions—and making sense of them once they arrive.

They start with practical guidance for the waiting period, including how often to check portals and emails, why weekends can feel misleading, and why it’s important not to compare your timeline to friends or online speculation. Nicole and Muskan also address how to process denials with perspective, reminding students that a rejection—regardless of a school’s perceived “tier”—does not define future...

When should students start SAT or ACT prep—and how do they decide which test is right for them? In this episode, Nicole and Muskan break down the strategy behind smart testing, not just more testing.

They walk through an ideal testing timeline, how SAT/ACT dates fit into college list planning and essay writing, and what students should consider before signing up for another exam. From choosing between the SAT and ACT to understanding superscoring and test-optional strategies, this episode offers practical guidance to help families plan with confidence and avoid unnecessary stress.

Whether yo...

Receiving a waitlist or deferral decision can feel confusing and overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Moon Prep counselors Nicole and Muskan break down what waitlist and deferral decisions really mean, how different schools handle them, and what students should do next.

From understanding waitlist movement and deferral timelines to writing an effective letter of continued interest, this episode walks through actionable next steps, important deadlines (including National Decision Day), and common mistakes to avoid. Nicole and Muskan also discuss how to assess your other options, gather meaningful updates, and move forward with...

In this episode of our Essay Mini Series, hosts Nicole and Amanda dive deep into the “Community” essay and what these prompts are really asking admissions officers want to know. They break down the two core questions behind the essay: How has this community shaped who you are, and how will that relationship carry forward into your time at their university?

Nicole and Amanda discuss how broadly “community” can be defined—from teams, classes, neighborhoods, cultural identities, and online spaces to less obvious groups like being an only child or navigating overlapping identities. They emphasize the importance of choosin...

🎙️ Essay Mini Series: “Personality” Essay

In this episode of our Essay Mini Series, hosts Nicole and Amanda explore one of the most creative and revealing prompts students encounter: the “Personality” essay. They discuss how this prompt allows you to showcase who you are beyond grades and activities—and how to strike the right balance between authenticity, storytelling, and self-reflection.

Nicole and Amanda walk through how to highlight your unique traits, avoid clichés, and choose anecdotes that feel fresh and genuine. They also break down common pitfalls, like trying too hard to be quirky or focusing more on...

🎙️ Essay Mini Series: “Why Major” Essay

In this episode of our Essay Mini Series, hosts Nicole and Amanda unpack the ever-important “Why Major” essay—an opportunity for students to showcase curiosity, clarity, and direction. They explain what admissions officers hope to learn from this prompt, how to move beyond generic statements, and the key elements every strong response should include.

From reflecting on formative experiences to connecting academic interests with future goals, Nicole and Amanda offer practical strategies, common mistakes to avoid, and examples that bring the essay to life.

Whether you’re still exploring p...

🎙️ Essay Mini Series: The “Challenge” Essay

In this episode, hosts Nicole and Amanda dive into one of the most common — and tricky — college essay prompts: the Challenge Essay. They share insider tips, best practices, and examples to help you write about personal growth with authenticity and impact.

💡 Learn what makes a strong “challenge” story stand out, common mistakes to avoid, and how to reflect without overdramatizing. Whether you’re just brainstorming or polishing your final draft, this episode will guide you through crafting a compelling, genuine response that admissions officers remember.

Don’t forget to like, comment...

Applying to a BS/MD program? Don’t let these common interview mistakes ruin your chances! In this video, we break down the top reasons applicants get rejected—and how YOU can avoid them.

📌 What we cover:

Learn how to showcase your motivation, professionalism, and readiness for a career in medicine. Whether you're preparing for traditional interviews or MMIs, this video will help you walk in with confidence and clarity.

✨ Pro tip: The best candidate...

Why do colleges ask, “Why us?” and how do you make your answer stand out? In this episode, Moon Prep counselors Nicole and Amanda break down one of the most important (and tricky) supplemental essays: the “Why School?” essay.

We’ll dive into real examples, from the short and simple (“Why Columbia?”) to the long and layered (“What’s your sense of Duke as a university and community?”). You’ll get practical tips for research - beyond just scrolling rankings - including how to use course catalogs, student clubs, social media, and even YouTube vlogs to discover what really excites yo...

Curious to know what it takes to get accepted to Brown University's Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME)?

Join Moon Prep counselors Amanda and Nicole as they speak with Ryan, a Brown PLME student and fellow Moon Prep counselor, to learn his journey of applying to one of the nation’s most competitive BS/MD programs.

In this episode, Ryan shares insights on his experience at Brown, his academic focus, and the application process for the PLME program. Ryan shares practical advice for potential applicants, what makes Brown unique, and gives valuable tips on supplemental es...

Ready to Start Your College Applications Strong?

In this episode, Moon Prep counselors Nicole and Amanda break down everything you need to kick off your college applications with confidence. From navigating the newly redesigned Common App and understanding when to use the Circumstances section, to tips for listing honors (and which ones to skip!), we cover it all.

You’ll also learn the ins and outs of letters of recommendation, application types - EA, ED, REA, regular, and rolling - and what’s changed at schools like Brown, Yale, and UMich. Plus, they share tips on s...

Need help writing the Activity Essay? In this installment of our Essay Mini Series, Moon Prep counselors Nicole and Amanda break down how to choose the perfect extracurricular for your “most meaningful experience” essays.

You’ll learn why it’s not about picking the flashiest activity, but the one with the deepest personal impact, and how to avoid overused topics like sports or generic clubs.

Plus, you’ll hear brainstorming tips and real examples to help you find the story that truly sets you apart.

🎧 Listen on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, or watch on YouTube!<...

Not sure how many activities to include or how to describe them in your college apps? Our Moon Prep counselors break it all down:

✅ How many can you list?

✅ What counts as an activity?

📌 Order of activities?

⚠️ Can you lie? Nope. It’s...

Not sure what major to choose? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know to make the right decision.

Start With What You Like

Think about which classes you enjoy (and which ones you don’t). It’s a great way to narrow things down.

Top-Down Approach

Start by asking: What are your career goals? Then pick a major that aligns with where you want to go.

Do Your Research

Talk to professors, alumni, and professionals or shadow someone in your field

Can...

Struggling to start your college personal statement? You’re not alone—and in this video, we break down everything you need to know to write a strong, authentic 650-word essay that stands out on your Common App. This personal statement goes to almost every school on your list, so getting it right is essential!

What we cover:

In this episode, Moon Prep counselors Lindsey and Nicole discuss tips for students heading to college. Whether you're a student or a parent, this episode breaks down everything you need to know to navigate the transition with confidence.

This is your step-by-step guide to driving the bus instead of just riding along. Don't miss it!

🎧 Listen on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, or watch here on YouTube!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more BS/MD admissions tips!

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD...

The summer before your senior year is a golden opportunity to get ahead in the college application process. In this video, we break down everything you need to focus on to prepare for the 2025/2026 application cycle:

📚 Extracurriculars: Final push for leadership roles, hands-on opportunities, volunteering, and shadowing hours.

🎓 Academics & Testing: Prepare for senior year classes, finalize your testing strategy (SAT/ACT), and get ready for any changes in college requirements!

🏫 College List: Finalize your college list, plan your Early Decision (ED) or Restrictive Early Action (REA) options, and start thinking about college visits.

✍️ C...

The 2024/25 BS/MD admissions cycle has officially wrapped, and we're breaking down everything you need to know if you're preparing for future application seasons! In this video, we’ll cover key trends and updates from this year’s direct medical program admissions, including:

Whether you're a high school student planning your application strategy or a p...

Description: Lindsey and Nicole discuss how to create the best SAT and ACT testing plan and what test optional means for BS/MD candidates.

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

In this episode of the White Coat Club, Lindsey and Nicole from Moon Prep break down the role of AP scores in BS/MD admissions. They emphasize that while BS/MD programs value rigorous coursework, AP scores are not typically required—but they can strengthen an application, especially in science-heavy subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Calculus.

The hosts discuss the importance of both AP classes and exam scores, offering guidance on whether to submit lower scores (like a 3) and how admissions committees view them. They also compare AP courses to dual enrollment options, advising students to ba...

Episode Description:

Lindsey and Nicole discuss the opportunities and options available for students who were not admitted to a BS/MD program. They are joined by Loren, a Moon Prep counselor, who shares insights on alternative pathways to medical school.

About Us: Moon Prep is a leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them toward acceptance.