S3E21: Why (and How) You Should Plan Ahead
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
Release Date: 12/06/2024
S4E9: Can One Mistake Ruin My College Chances?
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 demonstrate growth. This episode dives into the real consequences of disciplinary and academic infractions, how colleges evaluate these issues, and—most importantly—how students can take...
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S4E8: Real Students, Real Success: How They Beat the Odds in College Admissions
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 reframing experiences, seeking the right opportunities, and crafting compelling personal stories. Success Stories: Andie: A student from a middle-class, single-parent home who worked after school...
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S4E7: Maximizing College Guidance: School Counselors & Outside Experts
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 of taking a proactive approach to admissions guidance. Key Takeaways: The Role of School Counselors: School counselors work hard and care deeply about student success. Any work with an...
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S4E6: Doing Extracurriculars Right (and Wrong)
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 traditional checklist mentality to create a cohesive and authentic application narrative. Key Takeaways: Why Extracurriculars Matter: Families often approach extracurriculars as a series of...
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S4E5: Are Safety Schools Actually Safe?
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 offers alternative perspectives, including the benefits of community college transfers and the critical importance of genuine interest when applying to any school. Key Takeaways: What Is a Safety...
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S4E4: Who IS Thomas Caleel? Revisiting Our 'Why'
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 admissions process with confidence and clarity. Key Takeaways: Where it all Started – Thomas shares his unconventional path, from business ventures in Europe to launching skincare brands in...
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S4E3: What's The Deal With Deferrals?
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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: Schools act in their best interest, and have ideal yield margins to hit each year. Yield is the number of students who accepted an offer over the number of offers given out and can be a big indicator...
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S4E2: Expanding the Ivy League Isn't That Simple
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 these colleges would reduce scarcity, ultimately diminishing the exclusivity and prestige they leverage. Most Ivy League schools lack the space to expand – Many Ivies are located in...
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S4E1: Let's Talk About Transferring
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 transferring for ranking is not a good reason. Is your current school a bad fit? Have your priorities shifted? Dig deep. How Schools Consider YOU: Schools consider more than your reason for...
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S3E26: You Asked, We Answered
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
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 college advisor, international applicants, and how deferred applicants should approach their LOCI. Key Questions: "How do we balance not burning these kids out before they even arrive on campus?...
info_outlineIn 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
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Start Freshman Year with Intentional Foundations
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Focus on acclimating to high school, building study habits, and exploring interests.
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Establish a strong academic base, as grades from freshman year are critical for long-term success.
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Prioritize Academic Support and Adaptation
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Ensure your child gets extra help when needed, whether through tutoring, peer support, or teacher engagement.
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Early identification and accommodation of learning differences can be crucial, especially for standardized testing.
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Sophomore Year: Focus and Refine Interests
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Narrow extracurricular activities to a few key areas that align with your child’s passions.
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Encourage deeper involvement outside of school activities to help them stand out in competitive applicant pools.
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Junior Year: Academic Excellence and Strategic Planning
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Junior year is the time to excel academically; grades here are particularly impactful.
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Begin standardized test preparation early and be consistent with practice.
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Engage with college counselors and begin crafting a well-balanced college list.
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Leverage Summer Opportunities Thoughtfully
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Summers should involve meaningful activities like internships, academic programs, or work experience.
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Activities should demonstrate initiative, leadership, and alignment with academic or personal interests.
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Empower Authentic Interests
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Encourage students to explore what they genuinely love without overly managing their path.
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Admissions officers value self-awareness and authentic passion over highly curated resumes.
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Prepare for the Application Process Early
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Start data entry for applications over the summer and identify key narratives for essays.
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Foster relationships with teachers and counselors to ensure strong recommendation letters.
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Conclusion:
Planning ahead is the foundation of a successful college admissions journey. By fostering your child's authentic interests, focusing on strategic choices, and supporting their academic and extracurricular growth, you can help them navigate this process with confidence. For more tips and guidance, follow Thomas on Instagram and TikTok at @admittedlyco.