S3E26: You Asked, We Answered
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
Release Date: 01/24/2025
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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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...
info_outlineAdmittedly: 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_outlineAdmittedly: 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...
info_outlineAdmittedly: 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...
info_outlineAdmittedly: 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...
info_outlineAdmittedly: 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...
info_outlineAdmittedly: 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...
info_outlineAdmittedly: 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...
info_outlineAdmittedly: 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...
info_outlineIn 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:
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"How do we balance not burning these kids out before they even arrive on campus? Feels like a feedback loop that needs to change. College admissions are expecting more, students are doing more, or doing more elite activities, and then admissions expects these things are the norm."
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"Would you mind addressing how your intent applies to students that aren't looking at the big Ivies?"
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"How to balance life as a teen and top academic achievement in a manner that is healthy and avoids burnout?"
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"Thoughts on a gap year? How do you make the most of a gap year?"
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"As a parent of a rising ninth grader, when do you recommend hiring a college advisor?"
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“How important is having national or international awards for top schools? Is having none going to get you rejected?"
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Advice for international applicants, especially in creating opportunities when extracurricular activities may not be as prevalent in their countries.
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How deferred applicants are reviewed during regular decision and how to strategically approach a letter of continued interest.
Remember, navigating college admissions is all about finding the right balance, staying true to yourself, and focusing on what truly matters. Trust in your unique journey.
Be sure to follow Thomas on Instagram and TikTok at @admittedlyco. Feel free to DM your questions or drop them in the comments—there’s a lot of great engagement happening between students, parents, and those with experience!