S3E9: How to Choose Between MBA Programs
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
Release Date: 08/15/2024
S3E24: Managing Stress in College Admissions
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 the trap of overloading schedules to "keep up" with others. With a focus on authenticity and depth over breadth, this episode provides actionable advice for students and parents alike. Key...
info_outline
S3E23: Is an Ivy League Education Worth It?
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 networks, financial considerations, and career impact of an Ivy League education while encouraging families to make thoughtful, individualized decisions. Key Takeaways: What is the Ivy League? The...
info_outline
S3E22: Don't Be Afraid of Your Admissions Essays!
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 unique story can set applicants apart in a sea of polished but impersonal submissions. Key Takeaways: Courage Over Conformity: Avoid mimicking “successful essays” found online. Let your unique...
info_outline
S3E21: Why (and How) You Should Plan Ahead
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 children while allowing them to explore and pursue their authentic passions. Key Takeaways Start Freshman Year with Intentional Foundations Focus on acclimating to high school, building study habits,...
info_outline
S3E20: Getting the Most out of Undergrad Interviews
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 Interview Process: Thomas explains the differences between interviews that count as evaluations versus alumni conversations. Knowing whether the interview plays a significant role in admissions helps...
info_outline
S3E19: College Application Planning Tips for Juniors
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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: Thomas encourages juniors to think ahead by working backward from their goals, even if those goals are not yet fully defined. He discusses the importance of building a strong academic profile by taking...
info_outline
S3E18: Getting Creative with the UChicago Supplement (2024)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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: The University of Chicago supplement encourages applicants to think outside the box, offering an "unlimited universe" of prompts, or even the chance to create your own. Thomas emphasizes the...
info_outline
S3E17: How to Get into Brown University (2024)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 freedom to design their own academic path. Thomas emphasizes the importance of understanding this concept deeply and explains how applicants can illustrate why this educational model suits them and...
info_outline
S3E16: Answering the Johns Hopkins Supplement (2024)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 connecting your personal background and identity to your academic interests, showing how your experiences have shaped your passion for a particular field of study. Strategic Structure: Rather than...
info_outline
S3E15: Tips for the Stanford Supplement (2024)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 students who are genuinely excited about learning. Thomas advises applicants to reflect on a meaningful experience that sparked their intellectual curiosity. It’s less about what you want to major...
info_outlineIn 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 ideal for individuals in their mid-20s who are looking to make a career change or deepen their expertise in a particular industry. The program offers intense networking opportunities, deep friendships, and a chance to focus solely on personal and professional growth.
2. Part-Time and Executive MBA Programs: These programs are designed for working professionals who wish to advance their careers while maintaining their current employment. Although intense due to the need to balance work, studies, and personal life, they provide valuable networking opportunities and can often be employer-sponsored.
3. Online MBA Programs: Online MBAs are flexible options for individuals who cannot afford to take time off work or need to balance other responsibilities. These programs offer the same educational benefits as traditional MBAs, allowing students to gain skills and knowledge at their own pace while continuing to work.
4. Early Career MBA Programs: Programs like Harvard's two-plus-two allow students to secure an MBA seat early in their careers, often immediately after undergrad. While this offers a fast track to an MBA, students may miss out on some networking opportunities and the maturity that comes with work experience.
5. Importance of Timing and Goals: Choosing the right MBA program requires careful consideration of your current career stage, goals, and personal circumstances. It's essential to maximize the return on your MBA investment by selecting a program that aligns with your professional and personal life.
Thomas emphasizes the importance of understanding your motivations and timing when choosing an MBA program. Whether full-time, part-time, online, or early career, each program offers unique advantages that can significantly impact your career and personal development. For more insights on MBA and undergraduate admissions, follow @admittedlypodcast on TikTok and Instagram.