S3E8: Benefits to Dual Enrollment and Middle Colleges with Delenn Ganyo
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
Release Date: 08/08/2024
S4E19: Don’t Write Your Essay Yet (Start Here Instead)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 what colleges are really looking for, and begin your essay process with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways: Your Story Is the Only Story That Matters: The Common App essay isn’t...
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S4E18: Sophomore Year Done Right (Q&A for Rising 10th Graders)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 clear and supportive breakdown of what matters most right now. From extracurricular strategy to GPA and summer planning, this is your roadmap for making sophomore year count—without burning out....
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S4E17: Rising Seniors: Planning, Positioning, and Building Your Edge
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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: revisiting standardized test plans, reflecting on academic interests and potential majors, and identifying the schools and environments that truly fit. He emphasizes the importance of deeper...
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S4E16: Harvard, International Students, and How We Got Here
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 directly. Thomas walks through the timeline of events that led to this moment, exploring the implications for international students and US families alike. Key Takeaways: Harvard Is Just the Beginning:...
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S4E15: The Introvert’s Guide to Standing Out in College Admissions
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 how to ensure your quieter approach still connects outside your own bubble. With real examples from students who were more introspective but still successful at the most competitive schools,...
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S4E14: The ‘Passion Project’ Trap (And What Actually Works)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 fall flat in the admissions process and what to do instead: follow your curiosity, pursue meaningful work, and focus deeply on what actually drives you. He shares real stories of students—some with...
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S4E13: The Truth About Competitive Admissions: Hard Work Isn’t Optional
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 to reframe the pressure into something powerful. Key Takeaways: Hard Work Is Non-Negotiable: No one can hand you a college admissions success story. Counselors can guide you, but...
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S4E12: Admissions Are Changing for International Students: What You Need To Know
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 why this matters not just for applicants—but for the future of higher education itself. Key Takeaways: Visa Challenges Are Real—But You Can Plan Ahead: Uncertainty around visas and...
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S4E11: Your Summer Fell Apart… Now What?
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 have to derail your admissions story. Thomas breaks down what’s going on, what it means for your application, and how to pivot with purpose and strategy. Key Takeaways: Disruptions Are...
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S4E10 End-of-Year Check-In: Are You on Track for College?
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 prepping your recommenders, Thomas offers clear, actionable guidance tailored to where you are in your high school journey. Plus, he shares inspiring success stories from real students...
info_outlineIntroduction: 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 school students to take college-level courses alongside their high school curriculum, often earning college credits. This approach provides students with an accelerated learning path and can lead to early graduation or advanced standing in college.
2. Middle Colleges as an Accelerated Learning Model: Middle colleges represent a "supercharged" dual enrollment model, allowing students to earn significant college credits and potentially complete an associate's degree while still in high school. Delenn shares personal experiences of thriving in this environment and highlights the importance of student-driven motivation.
3. Comparing Dual Enrollment and AP Courses: Unlike AP courses taught by high school teachers, dual enrollment classes are taught by college instructors and often provide guaranteed transferable credits. This distinction makes dual enrollment a potentially more reliable option for students aiming to cut down on college time or costs.
4. Benefits of Middle Colleges: Attending a middle college can provide academic challenges, make students more competitive in university applications, and allow for early specialization or interdisciplinary study. Delenn discusses the personal advantages and opportunities they gained from this educational path.
5. Considerations for Non-Traditional Educational Paths: While middle colleges and dual enrollment offer exciting opportunities, they may not be suitable for everyone. Students should assess their own academic interests and readiness, ensuring that their educational path aligns with their goals and learning style.
Conclusion: Thomas Caleel and guest Delenn Ganyo emphasize the importance of understanding one's educational preferences and exploring non-traditional paths like dual enrollment and middle colleges. These options can offer accelerated learning and unique opportunities for students who are passionate about academics and eager to challenge themselves.
About Thomas Caleel:
Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely with admissions professionals, students, alumni, and professors to curate the best possible MBA class. Thomas has been an entrepreneur his entire life in the fields of finance, agriculture, wellness, and sporting goods. As the founder of Global Education Opportunities LLC, he works as a high-level admissions advisor to help families and students achieve their education goals. Thomas started the podcast Admittedly because he is passionate about demystifying the application process for all parents and applicants.
About Delenn Ganyo (@delennganyo):
Delenn Ganyo is an academic tutor and admissions coach from Santa Barbara, California. They completed their Master’s in English in December 2023, graduating previously from UC Santa Barbara in 2021 with Bachelor’s degrees in chemistry, anthropology, and writing. Attaining their first college degree—an Associates of mathematics—the day before their high school graduation, Delenn has placed a lifelong emphasis on education and academic achievement. Delenn’s experience tutoring includes academic subjects such as English composition, creative writing, mathematics, and chemistry, as well as standardized tests including the new digital SAT. Post-graduation, Delenn has completed additional certifications in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and Generative AI for Educators, and in their free time they write literary analysis papers about science-fiction and fantasy.
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