Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
The Admittedly Podcast helps parents and students navigate the admissions process for college, grad school, or prep school. Host Thomas Caleel, former director of MBA admissions at Wharton, shares insights from his experience as an entrepreneur and CEO of a global admissions consulting agency. Episodes feature guest speakers, live coaching sessions, and solo episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. The podcast aims to demystify admissions and provide practical advice for improving applications.
Episodes
S5E17: What Makes a Great College Essay? Storytelling, Authenticity, & Finding Your Voice | Interview With Charles Loxton From Advantage Testing
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel sits down with Charles Loxton, Chief Communications Officer at Advantage Testing and an experienced application consultant, to explore one of the most misunderstood parts of the admissions process: the college essay. Drawing on decades of experience helping students develop their personal narratives, Charles explains why essays matter, how s
S5E16: Class of 2027: Summer Strategy, Essays, & The Mistakes That Derail Applications | Admissions Advice For Rising Seniors
To speak with an advisor and build a smarter college admissions strategy, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at: 👉 https://admittedly.co/path-to-admissions-organic/ In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel speaks directly to rising seniors and their families about one of the most important periods in the college admissions process: the summer before senior year. After years of hard
S5E15: Admissions Essays Explained: What Admissions Officers Are Actually Looking For (& What Most Students Get Wrong)
To speak with an advisor and build a smarter college admissions strategy, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at: 👉 https://admittedly.co/path-to-admissions/ College application essays are one of the biggest opportunities students have to differentiate themselves in competitive admissions. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel breaks down what admissions officers are actually lo
S5E14: What 20+ Years Inside Admissions Taught Me: From Wharton MBA to Competitive Undergraduate Admissions
To speak with an advisor and build a smarter college admissions strategy, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at: 👉 admittedly.co/path-to-admissions/ In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel answers a question we see a lot in our comments: "Why should families trust undergraduate admissions advice from a former Director of MBA Admissions at Wharton?". He shares the story behind his
S5E13: Why Passion Projects, Research, and "Founder" Titles Are Failing Students (And What Admissions Officers Actually Value)
To speak with an advisor and build a smarter college admissions strategy, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at: 👉 https://admittedly.co/path-to-admissions/?utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=&utm_contentid= In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel breaks down one of the most misunderstood trends in modern college admissions: passion projects. From student
S5E12: Why Leadership Titles Are Losing Value in Modern College Admissions (And What Matters More)
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at: 👉 apply.admittedly.co In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel breaks down why it feels like leadership titles are losing value in modern, holistic college admissions and what admissions officers are actually looking for when it comes to extracurricular involvement. For years, stu
S5E11: How Top Applicants Approach Extracurriculars: What Stands Out, What Blends In, & The Mindset That Actually Matters
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel breaks down one of the most misunderstood parts of college admissions: extracurricular activities. Families often believe there is a "perfect list" of activities that guarantees admission to selective colleges. In realit
S5E10: ADHD, Executive Functioning, & College Readiness: What Parents Need to Know Before Senior Year
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel speaks with Mike McLeod, founder of GrowNOW ADHD, about the real factor that determines whether students thrive in college: executive functioning skills. Strong grades and test scores can help students gain admission, bu
S5E9: How to Recover Your Admissions Strategy If You Fell Behind in High School (Course Rigor, GPA & Strategy)
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel tackles a question many students quietly worry about: What if I didn't take high school seriously early on and now I'm behind? Whether it's limited access to AP or honors courses, a lighter course load freshman and sopho
S5E9: What Exceptional Applicants Actually Do: How 5 Unique Students Beat the Odds in Ivy League Admissions
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas shares real stories from students he has worked with who reached their dream schools... sometimes in ways that surprised even them. These stories include a student who pivoted away from STEM pressure to pursue a passion for law
S5E8: Inside the Minds of Elite Admissions Officers: How AOs Are Trained To Review Your Application (Interview with Former Duke AO)
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas sits down with Admittedly's Interim Director of College Counseling and former Senior Admissions Officer at Duke University, Sonam, for a candid look inside how highly selective admissions offices actually evaluate applica
S5E7: Why I Built Admittedly After 20 Years in College Admissions — and Where We're Going Next
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, book a Complimentary Strategy Call at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel steps away from tactical admissions advice to share the story behind Admittedly — how it started, why it exists, and where it's headed next. With nearly two decades inside selective admissions, including leading MBA Admi
S5E6: What Parents Should Know About Academic Tutoring & Test Prep: Fit, Timing, & Real Progress
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel sits down with Kathy Yellen, Senior Program Consultant at Advantage Testing, to pull back the curtain on what most families misunderstand about tutoring and test prep. With 16 years at Advantage Testing and a background spanning early childhood education, classroom teaching, and performance, Kathy explains what her role actually looks like:
S5E5: The Ivy+ Roadmap: How to Plan Ahead for Competitive Admissions (From 8th-11th Grade)
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, apply for a free Family Action Call with us at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel explores one of the most powerful but overlooked advantages in college admissions: planning ahead. Drawing on more than two decades of experience in highly selective admissions, he explains why the most successf
S5E4: Am I Doing Enough? The Right (And Wrong) Way to Approach Extracurricular Activities in Highschool
To speak with an advisor and map out your student's next steps, apply for a free Family Action Call with us at admittedly.co/apply. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel takes on one of the most misunderstood parts of college preparation: extracurricular activities. Parents often worry their students aren't doing enough, while students feel overwhelmed trying to "keep up" with f
S5E3: Raising Resilient Kids: Nature Connections, Mental Health, and College Readiness with Mario Mendez of Wilderness Youth Project (WYP)
If you're ready to take the next step in your admissions journey, visit https://admittedly.co/apply to register for a free Family Action Call with one of our advisors. Parents worry about grades, test scores, and résumés. But underneath all of that, what really shapes a student who can thrive in competitive academics and in life? In this episode, Thomas Caleel talks with Mario Mendez, Community
S5E2: Junior Year College Admissions Strategy: Balancing Academics, Counselors, and Activity Planning for Success
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel breaks down why junior year is the most consequential year in the college admissions process. As students are assigned college counselors and admissions timelines become real, he explains what juniors should be focused on right now — and where families often misunderstand how the process actually works. This conversation covers academic rigo
S5E1: New Year, New Goals: How to Take Control of College Admissions in 2026
Happy New Year, listeners! In this Season 5 premiere of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel kicks off the new year by addressing one of the most important questions students and families face: how to take control of the college admissions process instead of leaving outcomes to chance. Drawing on decades of experience in highly selective admissions, Thomas reflects on the lessons of the pas
S4E43: 10th Grade Check-In: Grades, Extracurriculars, and Planning for Competitive College Admissions
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel walks sophomores and their families through a critical midyear check-in. With first semester complete and winter break underway, this is the moment to take an honest look at academics, extracurriculars, and overall direction before junior year raises the stakes. Thomas explains why sophomore year often feels harder than expected, how sm
S4E42: Inside the Mind of a Top Tutor: Why Students Struggle and How to Help Them Thrive (With Advantage Testing's Michelle Chasin)
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel speaks with Michelle Chasin, Associate Director of Advantage Testing New York and senior tutor with more than 30 years of experience working with high school students. Michelle specializes in tutor development, long-term academic mentorship, and supporting students through test preparation, foundational skill-building, and the emotional chal
S4E41: Freshman Year Check-In: The Essential Guide to Grades, Activities & Summer Planning
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down what freshmen (and their parents) should be thinking about as they wrap up their first semester of high school. From academic foundations to extracurricular exploration to strategic planning for summer, Thomas explains why the habits students build now will shape their options in junior and senior year — especially if they'r
S4E40: Results Guaranteed? The Real Story Behind Stats, Success Rates, and College Consulting Claims
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down one of the most confusing (and often misleading) parts of the college admissions landscape: how to evaluate a college consultant. With firms advertising guaranteed results, inflated acceptance lists, and "proprietary systems," Thomas explains what families should actually be looking for when choosing an advisor for their hig
S4E39: How to Plan a Strategic Summer (Before It's Too Late)
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel explains why freshmen, sophomores, and juniors should begin planning their summer programs and activities long before spring. Drawing on decades of experience in college admissions, he breaks down what actually matters, what doesn't, and why early planning is one of the most overlooked competitive advantages in high school. Rather than
S4E38: The Hidden Half of College Admissions: What Students Overlook (and What Actually Matters)
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel reveals the hidden half of the college admissions process, the part most families never think about. Students spend years stacking achievements and building resumes, but the truth is that admissions officers care less about what you have done and far more about why you have done it. Drawing from two decades of experience, including his
S4E37: The 3 Biggest Mistakes Students Make in High School (And How to Fix Them Before Senior Year)
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the three most common mistakes he sees students make year after year in the college admissions process — and how to correct them before it's too late. Drawing on more than two decades of admissions experience, including his time as Director of MBA Admissions at UPenn's Wharton School, Thomas explains why the strongest applic
S4E36: No, College Admissions Aren't Getting Easier in 2026: Here's What You CAN Control
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down why college admissions at Ivy League and other top universities are more competitive than ever—and what students and parents can still control in the process. Despite social media myths about an "easier" year ahead, Thomas explains why application numbers remain high, selectivity rates are dropping, and grade inflation is bl
S4E35: Confidence, Clarity, and College Admissions: Global Tutoring Insights with Advantage Testing's Matthew Demmer
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel speaks with Matthew Demmer, Associate Director of Advantage Testing New York and Director of Advantage Testing UK. With over 22 years of experience tutoring students across the U.S., U.K., and Middle East, Matt shares how one-on-one tutoring helps students build confidence, reduce anxiety, and perform at their best — whether preparing for th
S4E34: Inside the Review Room – How Admissions Officers Read Applications
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel, former Director of MBA Admissions at Wharton, takes you behind the scenes of the admissions office to show how applications are actually read. From transcripts and essays to activities, recommendations, and test scores, Thomas explains what admissions officers focus on and how they build a three-dimensional picture of each applicant. K
S4E33: Do The SAT and ACT Still Matter? Test Optional Policies and the Ivy League Explained
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel unpacks one of the most debated topics in college admissions: test optional policies. Are they really leveling the playing field, or just creating more confusion? Drawing from his decades of admissions experience, Thomas explains how test optional began, what it means for students today, and why the future of standardized testing is shi
S4E32: Applying to Columbia: How to Write Your 2025 Supplements For Success
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down Columbia University's 2025 supplemental essays and guides you through how to approach each one strategically. From the famous "list question" to the diversity prompt, the disagreement essay, the adversity question, and the two-part "Why Columbia" response, Thomas explains how to build thoughtful, authentic answers that actua
S4E31: Cracking the UPenn Supplements: Thank-You Note & Community Essay Tips
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel, former Director of MBA Admissions & Financial Aid at UPenn's Wharton School, breaks down the University of Pennsylvania's 2025 writing supplements and how to approach them strategically. Thomas explains how to make the most of Penn's two required prompts: the "Thank You Note" and the Community Essay. You'll learn why the thank-you lett
S4E30: Applying to Yale: A Guide to the Short Answers and Essays
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down Yale's 2025 writing supplements and short answers so you can respond with clarity, strategy, and genuine voice. From selecting up to three academic areas on the application to explaining a topic that truly excites you, Thomas shows how to demonstrate curiosity without becoming monothematic and how to tie your interests authe
S4E29: How to Approach Harvard's 2025 Supplemental Essays for Admissions Success
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down Harvard's five short-answer supplements and how to approach them strategically. Thomas explains how to respond authentically, avoid common traps, and show admissions officers exactly what makes you stand out. From Harvard's diversity question to the "disagree with someone" prompt, extracurricular reflections, and roommate in
S4E28: Stanford Supplements 2025: How to Approach Them (and What to Avoid)
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel, former Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton, walks through how to approach Stanford's three supplemental essay prompts — and the common mistakes that hold students back. Thomas explains how to write with authenticity, connect your story to the Stanford community, and avoid cliché answers that admissions officers have
S4E27: Complacency or Commitment: The Choice That Defines Ivy+ Outcomes
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes on a recurring theme in his conversations with students and families: complacency. For those aiming at Ivy+ and other highly selective schools, "coasting" is a red flag. Thomas unpacks why admissions officers notice when students take their foot off the gas, how drifting summers and watered-down academics hurt an application, and
S4E26: The Joy of Tutoring: Arun Alagappan on Reducing Anxiety and Unlocking Potential
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel sits down with Arun Alagappan, founder and president of Advantage Testing, one of the most respected names in academic tutoring and test preparation. A Princeton and Harvard Law alum, Arun has spent nearly four decades redefining what tutoring can and should be: an uplifting, empowering experience that fosters both academic mastery and lifel
S4E25: The 2025 Admissions Reality — How Funding Cuts, Student Visas, and Campus Culture Will Shape This Cycle
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a strategic pause to break down the seismic shifts hitting higher education right now—and what they mean for your application this year. From sweeping funding cuts at top universities, to uncertainty for international students, to new pressures for changes in campus culture, the landscape is changing fast. Thomas unpacks how these
S4E24: The Road Starts Early — Middle School Advice With Dr. Peggy Burich Smith
In this special episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel sits down with Dr. Peggy Burich-Smith, a senior counselor at Admittedly and a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience in independent school leadership. Together, they explore what it really takes to raise grounded, successful students—starting in middle school. From managing the parent-child dynamic during high-pressur
S4E23: The 2025 Common App (What to Know Before You Start)
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel walks through everything students and families need to prepare as the Common App opens on August 1. From how to set up your account to the mistakes students often make in the academic and activities sections, this is a clear, practical guide to starting the application season the right way. Key Takeaways: Getting Started with the C
S4E22: Applying Early to College (When It Helps—and When It Hurts)
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process: applying early. Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), and Restrictive Early Action (REA) each offer different opportunities—and different risks. And while the internet might tell you that applying early boosts your chances, the truth is more complicated
S4E21: Playing to Win—How Student Athletes Get Admitted
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel addresses student athletes—and the families supporting them. Whether you're competing at the national level or playing for the love of the game, it's time to unpack how admissions officers actually view athletics. Thomas breaks down the value of sports in college admissions, the expectations student athletes must meet, and why athletic
S4E20: The Additional Info Section—What to Say (and What to Skip)
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application: the Additional Information section. With the word count now reduced from 650 to 300 words, this section is no longer a free-for-all—it requires strategy, clarity, and discipline. Thomas breaks down what this section is actually for, who should use it, and how to
S4E19: Don't Write Your Essay Yet (Start Here Instead)
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a step back from structure and word count to focus on what matters most when writing your college essay: the story itself. It's that time of year when the pressure to write "the perfect essay" starts to build—but before you start typing, you need a clear foundation. This episode is all about helping you find your story, understand
S4E18: Sophomore Year Done Right (Q&A for Rising 10th Graders)
You made it through freshman year—now what? In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel tackles the real questions rising sophomores are asking: What should I focus on? How many activities is enough? Do I need APs? Is it too early to think about college? Whether you're aiming for the top universities, or just want to feel more confident heading into 10th grade, Thomas offers a cl
S4E17: Rising Seniors: Planning, Positioning, and Building Your Edge
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel speaks directly to rising seniors and their families. First, congratulations—junior year is done. Now it's time to look ahead. The next six weeks before the Common App opens are critical. This is when you take everything you've done and shape it into a focused, compelling strategy. Thomas outlines how students should be using this time:
S4E16: Harvard, International Students, and How We Got Here
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel unpacks the recent controversy surrounding Harvard and the broader implications for international students in the U.S. While Harvard may be in the spotlight, this is bigger than one school. These shifts have the potential to reshape the future of admissions, influence how schools fund themselves, and even impact American students direct
S4E15: The Introvert's Guide to Standing Out in College Admissions
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel tackles a concern we hear often from families: "What if my kid isn't the extroverted type who starts clubs or rallies crowds?" What happens when a student is deeply curious, authentic, and passionate—but in a quieter, more individual way? Thomas breaks down what admissions officers actually value, why solo work can absolutely shine, and
S4E14: The 'Passion Project' Trap (And What Actually Works)
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel tackles a big question many students have heading into summer: What should I do for my passion project? The truth? Passion projects can either be a meaningful expression of who you are—or a major red flag. This episode unpacks the difference between performative efforts and authentic impact. Thomas explains why passion projects often fa
S4E13: The Truth About Competitive Admissions: Hard Work Isn't Optional
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel tackles one of the most important truths in college admissions—and life: Hard things are hard. Whether you're aiming for a top-tier university or defining your own path, real achievement demands effort, reflection, and a mindset shift. This episode breaks down why checking boxes won't cut it, why your story has to come from you, and how
S4E12: Admissions Are Changing for International Students: What You Need To Know
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into the challenges international students are facing amid shifting U.S. policies. With visa uncertainty and changes affecting applications this fall, it's more important than ever to prepare, stay flexible, and consider new paths.Thomas breaks down what international students need to know, how they can protect their plans, and wh
S4E11: Your Summer Fell Apart… Now What?
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel disrupts the regular schedule to talk about the disruptions hitting students' summer plans—especially research and enrichment programs at top universities. With Ivy League campuses and other institutions making budget cuts and shifting resources, students across the country are watching valuable opportunities vanish. But this doesn't ha
S4E10 End-of-Year Check-In: Are You on Track for College?
With the school year winding down, it's time for a strategic check-in. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down what students in each grade level — from freshmen to juniors — should be doing right now to close out the year strong and set themselves up for summer (and beyond). From building study habits and exploring new interests to locking in your college list and
S4E9: Can One Mistake Ruin My College Chances?
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel addresses a question that has been coming up more and more often: "I made a mistake—am I done?" Whether it's academic dishonesty, a suspension, or even a school dismissal, students are understandably afraid these missteps have ended their college dreams. But as Thomas explains, what matters most is how you respond, own your mistake, and
S4E8: Real Students, Real Success: How They Beat the Odds in College Admissions
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a break from the usual admissions talk to share six inspiring success stories that prove there's no single path to college admissions success. These students faced unique challenges—limited resources, late-changing interests, international barriers—but found creative ways to stand out. Their journeys highlight the power of reframi
S4E7: Maximizing College Guidance: School Counselors & Outside Experts
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a deep dive into one of the most important questions in the college admissions process: What's the difference between a school counselor and an independent college counselor? Thomas explores when and why families may want to seek outside help, how to ensure school and independent counselors work in harmony, and the key advantages
S4E6: Doing Extracurriculars Right (and Wrong)
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel, former Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at UPenn's Wharton School, delves into the pivotal role of extracurricular activities in the college admissions process—a topic frequently requested by students and parents alike. Thomas emphasizes the importance of aligning extracurriculars with genuine interests, moving beyond the t
S4E5: Are Safety Schools Actually Safe?
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel, former Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at UPenn's Wharton School, tackles the topic of safety schools. Thomas explores how the concept of a safety school has evolved—from a carefully chosen handful of applications to a broader strategy in today's Common App era. He dives into the potential pitfalls of this mindset and offe
S4E4: Who IS Thomas Caleel? Revisiting Our 'Why'
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a moment to reintroduce himself. With so many new listeners joining our community, it's the perfect time to revisit the story behind Admittedly. Thomas shares his journey—from his early career ventures to becoming a leader in the college admissions space—and why he has spent the past 20 years helping students navigate the admissio
S4E3: What's The Deal With Deferrals?
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives deeper into deferrals. He breaks down what deferrals are, why schools do it, and what it means for YOU! Key Takeaways: Deferrals Are NOT Rejections: Understanding what it means to be deferred is critically important to your application process if you're applying Early Action or Early Decision. Yield Management is a Big Factor: Sch
S4E2: Expanding the Ivy League Isn't That Simple
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the question, "Why doesn't the Ivy League expand?" As a former Director of MBA Admissions at UPenn's Wharton School, Thomas offers an insider's perspective on the challenges and limitations elite universities face when it comes to growth. Key Takeaways: Ivy League schools aren't responsible for educating everyone – Expanding t
S4E1: Let's Talk About Transferring
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the workings of transferring colleges. He breaks down the process of transferring, why schools do it, why you might care, and answers some questions from listeners! Key Takeaways: You Need to Ask Yourself WHY: Whether it's in your personal statement or individual essays, schools will ask why you want to transfer, and transferr
S3E26: You Asked, We Answered
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel answers listener questions from Instagram and TikTok (@admittedlyco) on a range of topics surrounding the college admissions process. He offers advice on balancing academic and extracurricular pressure to avoid burnout, and discusses strategies for applicants not targeting Ivy League schools. Thomas also covers gap years, when to hire a
S3E25: College Admissions Have Changed. But How?
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the evolving college admissions landscape, comparing the challenges of today's process with that of previous generations. He offers insights into how applicant expectations, the applicant pool, and the criteria for top schools have changed, and answers some questions from listeners! Key Takeaways: The Shifting Admissions Lands
S3E24: Managing Stress in College Admissions
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel addresses the growing pressures high school students feel during the college admissions process. Exploring the sources of this stress—whether self-imposed or external—Thomas emphasizes the importance of intentionality and clarity of purpose. He offers insights into balancing extracurricular activities, maintaining mental health, and avoiding
S3E23: Is an Ivy League Education Worth It?
In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel delves into the ongoing debate surrounding Ivy League education. He explores the allure, benefits, and potential drawbacks of attending an Ivy or Ivy Plus school. Thomas emphasizes that while these schools can offer transformative opportunities, they are not the singular path to success. He breaks down the reputational effect, alumni network
S3E22: Don't Be Afraid of Your Admissions Essays!
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel emphasizes the critical role of courage in crafting standout college application essays. Drawing from his experience reviewing thousands of essays, Thomas shares insights into why authentic, bold storytelling is essential for making an impression on admissions officers. He discusses how vulnerability, self-awareness, and owning your uni
S3E21: Why (and How) You Should Plan Ahead
In this episode, Thomas provides a detailed roadmap for parents to support their children throughout high school to maximize success in the college admissions process. Addressing each high school year individually, Thomas highlights how intentional planning, academic focus, and extracurricular depth can set students apart. This episode equips parents with practical strategies to guide their childr
S3E20: Getting the Most out of Undergrad Interviews
In this episode of the Admittedly podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into the college interview process, offering insights for seniors navigating interview invites and juniors preparing for their future applications. From understanding the importance of interviews to tips for making a strong impression, Thomas shares practical advice to help students shine. Summary of Key Points: 1. Understand the
S3E19: College Application Planning Tips for Juniors
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel speaks directly to high school juniors and their parents, offering actionable insights on preparing for the college admissions process. With a focus on planning and strategy, Thomas emphasizes steps that students can take now to set themselves up for success next fall. Summary of Key Points: 1. Planning and Academic Preparation: Thoma
S3E18: Getting Creative with the UChicago Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the unique and creative nature of the University of Chicago supplement, offering advice on how to approach the school's open-ended and thought-provoking essay prompts. He discusses the value of creativity and how to craft responses that reflect the university's intellectual spirit. Summary of Key Points: 1. Embrace Creativity
S3E17: How to Get into Brown University (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel provides an in-depth analysis of the Brown University supplement. He highlights the unique aspects of Brown's educational philosophy, particularly the open curriculum, and offers advice on how to approach each of the supplemental essay prompts. Summary of Key Points: 1. The Open Curriculum: Brown's open curriculum offers students the
S3E16: Answering the Johns Hopkins Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the Johns Hopkins supplement, focusing on how to strategically approach its two-part question. He emphasizes the importance of integrating your life experience with your academic goals to create a cohesive narrative. Summary of Key Points: Integration of Community and Academics: Thomas stresses the importance of connecti
S3E15: Tips for the Stanford Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes on the Stanford supplement, providing advice on how to approach its famous questions. Thomas highlights how to stand out by showing intellectual curiosity, personal engagement, and a strong connection to the Stanford community. Summary of Key Points: 1. Reflecting on an Experience that Excites You About Learning: Stanford seeks
S3E14: How to Answer the Yale Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the Yale University supplement, guiding applicants through the nuances of both the short and longer essay questions. He emphasizes the importance of research, personal reflection, and thoughtful responses to create a cohesive narrative that resonates with the admissions committee. Summary of Key Points: 1. "Why Yale" Essay
S3E13: The Best Approach to the Cornell Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the Cornell supplement essay, which asks applicants to discuss a community that is meaningful to them. With a 350-word limit, Thomas offers guidance on how to effectively narrow down your focus and craft a compelling narrative that reflects your personal identity and how it will shape your experience at Cornell. Summary of Ke
S3E12: How to Succeed with the Penn Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into the Penn Supplement, focusing on the two required essays for all applicants: the thank you letter and the community essay. He also provides tips for navigating the school-specific essays depending on the program you're applying to. Summary of Key Points: 1. The Thank You Letter: This 150-200 word essay requires you to write
S3E11: How to Approach the Harvard Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the five short essay questions in the Harvard University supplement. With each response limited to 100 words, Thomas provides strategic advice on how to approach these prompts with clarity, brevity, and a focus on personal storytelling. Summary of Key Points: 1. Diversity and Life Experiences: The first essay asks applican
S3E10: How to Ace the Columbia Supplement (2024)
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel provides an in-depth guide to tackling the four main essays in the Columbia University supplement. He offers strategic advice on how to approach each essay, ensuring that applicants present their most authentic and compelling selves. Summary of Key Points: 1. Selection of Texts and Resources: This essay asks for a list of texts, resou
S3E9: How to Choose Between MBA Programs
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the different types of MBA programs available: full-time, part-time or executive, online, and early career. He provides insights into how to choose the right program based on your career goals, timing, and personal circumstances. Summary of Key Points: 1. Full-Time MBA Programs: Full-time MBAs are immersive, two-year programs
S3E8: Benefits to Dual Enrollment and Middle Colleges with Delenn Ganyo
Introduction: In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel interviews Delenn Ganyo, a colleague in college admissions and professional academic tutor. They discuss the topic of dual enrollment, middle colleges, and the benefits and challenges of pursuing non-traditional educational paths. Summary of Key Points: 1. Introduction to Dual Enrollment: Dual enrollment allows high scho
