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S4E17: Rising Seniors: Planning, Positioning, and Building Your Edge

Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

Release Date: 06/13/2025

S4E23: The 2025 Common App (What to Know Before You Start)

Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel walks through everything students and families need to prepare as the Common App opens on August 1. From how to set up your account to the mistakes students often make in the academic and activities sections, this is a clear, practical guide to starting the application season the right way. Key Takeaways: Getting Started with the Common App: Why you should create your account early, what to expect when you log in, and the key things to get right from the beginning. Academic History & Activities: How to report...

S4E22: Applying Early to College (When It Helps—and When It Hurts)

Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process: applying early. Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), and Restrictive Early Action (REA) each offer different opportunities—and different risks. And while the internet might tell you that applying early boosts your chances, the truth is more complicated. We’ll walk you through what these application types actually mean, how colleges use them strategically, and why those higher admit rates aren’t as simple as they seem. We’ll also talk about...

S4E21: Playing to Win—How Student Athletes Get Admitted

Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel addresses student athletes—and the families supporting them. Whether you're competing at the national level or playing for the love of the game, it’s time to unpack how admissions officers actually view athletics. Thomas breaks down the value of sports in college admissions, the expectations student athletes must meet, and why athletic ability alone won’t carry you through the process. He offers guidance for both recruited and non-recruited athletes—and reminds listeners that sports are one part of a much bigger admissions...

S4E20: The Additional Info Section—What to Say (and What to Skip)

Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application: the Additional Information section. With the word count now reduced from 650 to 300 words, this section is no longer a free-for-all—it requires strategy, clarity, and discipline. Thomas breaks down what this section is actually for, who should use it, and how to avoid the common mistakes that can hurt your application more than help. He also explains how to think about resumes in the context of your application and how the smartest students use every part...

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...

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....

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...

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:...

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,...

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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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 research, from courses to campus culture, and how these insights should inform your application narrative.

Key Topics Discussed:

Start With Testing:
ACT and SAT scores are becoming more important. Decide now if you need to retake your test, and explore free resources, tutoring, or study groups to help you succeed.
Build Your College Framework:
Work backward—think about your intended major, then identify the right-fit schools. Research deeply and critically: course offerings, campus culture, and opportunities for involvement.
Strategize for Essays:
Don’t write yet, but start reviewing last year’s supplemental essay prompts to understand what different schools value. Shape your approach based on what each school is actually looking for.
Summer Isn’t Just for Applications:
Highly selective schools expect you to be engaged. Volunteer, get a job, read, or explore something that moves you forward. This is your final summer—use it well.
Advice for Parents:
Support your student, but give them room to process. If your child doesn’t want to share their essay, that’s okay—find a third-party expert to help with feedback.
Get Ahead on the Common App:
Create your account and start basic data entry. Getting organized now will save stress later.

You don’t need to have everything figured out today—but you do need to start moving with purpose. Thoughtful planning now can make the difference between a chaotic senior year and a strategic, confident one.

Where are you in the process? We’d love to hear from you—DM us on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco with your questions or concerns.

Visit www.admittedly.co for free resources, tools, and expert support to help you stay on track.

Key Topics Discussed:

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