S4E9: Can One Mistake Ruin My College Chances?
Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel
Release Date: 04/04/2025
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...
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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...
info_outlineIn 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 back control of their narrative and future. Redemption is not only possible, but it can be powerful—if handled the right way.
Key Topics Discussed:
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Can one mistake really ruin your college admissions chances?
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The difference between academic and disciplinary issues in the application process
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Why academic dishonesty is taken so seriously—and how to move forward
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What to do if you’ve been suspended or disciplined
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How and when to disclose infractions on your college application
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The importance of owning your mistake and showing maturity and growth
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Steps to rebuild trust with your school and future colleges
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Letters of support: who to ask and why they matter
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Stories of redemption and what admissions officers are truly looking for
Everyone makes mistakes—it’s part of being human. What sets successful applicants apart isn’t perfection, but their willingness to take responsibility, grow, and keep pushing forward. If you’re facing a setback, don’t despair. Get in front of it, take the right steps, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your future is still in your hands.
We want to hear from you. If you've gone through something similar and come out stronger—share your story with us on social media @admittedlyco on Instagram and TikTok. Let’s uplift and support each other.