Episode 22: Early Decision Exposed — What Colleges Don’t Want Families to Know
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
Release Date: 11/23/2025
COLLEGE STRESS IS REAL: WHAT STUDENTS AND PARENTS NEED TO KNOW | EPISODE 26
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
College can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. In Episode 26 of CollegeShortcuts Insider: Beyond the Admissions Curtain, we break down why stress levels are so high among today’s college students — from academic pressure and financial concerns to social belonging and mental health challenges. We talk about common warning signs of stress, why so many students consider dropping out, and what actually helps students cope and thrive. This episode is a must-listen for parents and students navigating college life right now.
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EPISODE 25: HOW COLLEGES REALLY EVALUATE EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
In Episode 25 of CollegeShortcuts Insider, Neha explains how colleges truly evaluate extracurricular activities beyond the surface-level list on applications. This episode breaks down why depth matters more than quantity, how leadership and initiative stand out, and how admissions officers consider context, responsibilities, and personal circumstances when reviewing student involvement.
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EPISODE 24: APPLYING EARLY TO COLLEGE — WHEN IT HELPS, WHEN IT HURTS, AND WHAT STUDENTS MISS
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
In Episode 24 of CollegeShortcuts Insider, Neha breaks down the real advantages and hidden risks of applying early to college. We explain how Early Action and Early Decision work, why acceptance rates can look higher for early applicants, and why those numbers don’t tell the full story. This episode helps students and families decide whether applying early is a smart strategy or a costly mistake.
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EPISODE 23: COLLEGES EASE THE ADMISSIONS PRESSURE AS APPLICANT NUMBERS DECLINE
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
In this episode, Neha exposes the reality behind Early Decision — who benefits, who gets left behind, and why a major lawsuit is calling out elite colleges for unfair practices. Learn what every family must understand before committing to a binding application.
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Episode 22: Early Decision Exposed — What Colleges Don’t Want Families to Know
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
In this episode, Neha exposes the reality behind Early Decision — who benefits, who gets left behind, and why a major lawsuit is calling out elite colleges for unfair practices. Learn what every family must understand before committing to a binding application.
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WHAT PARENTS MUST KNOW ABOUT THE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS TIMELINE – EPISODE 21
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
In this episode of CollegeShortcuts Insider, Neha breaks down the essential college admissions timeline every parent needs to understand. From early planning and college lists to essays, test strategies, FAFSA, scholarships, and final decision-making — learn how to support your teen with clarity and confidence. Perfect for families navigating the admissions journey and wanting to reduce stress while making smart, informed choices.
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EPISODE 20: HOW COLLEGE ADMISSIONS ARE SHIFTING — WHAT STUDENTS AND PARENTS NEED TO KNOW NOW
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
In Episode 20 of CollegeShortcuts Insider: Beyond the Admissions Curtain, Neha breaks down how college admissions are shifting after the end of race-based affirmative action and new federal reporting rules. Learn what matters most in this new era — from essays and academics to authenticity and mindset — and how families can navigate the process with confidence.
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EPISODE 19: WHY THE RETURN OF STANDARDIZED TESTING MARKS A NEW ERA OF MERITOCRACY IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
Welcome back to CollegeShortcuts Insider: Beyond the Admissions Curtain. 🎓 In this episode, Neha breaks down why elite universities like Princeton, MIT, and Harvard are reinstating SAT and ACT requirements — and why that’s actually a win for students. Discover how standardized tests are helping restore fairness and merit in college admissions, what families should expect next, and how preparation can still change everything. For expert guidance on navigating college admissions, visit: 👉 Don’t forget to share, like, and subscribe to stay updated on the latest insights from...
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Episode 18: Why Mentorship Networks Are Essential in the College Admissions Process
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
In this episode, we explore how mentorship networks can transform the college admissions journey — especially for first-generation and underrepresented students. Learn how programs like College Link are making admissions more accessible and how CollegeShortcuts helps students find the right guidance for success.
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Episode 17 – What to Do If You’re Waitlisted: 7 Smart Steps for Students and Parents 🎓
College Shortcuts Insider: Beyond The Admissions Curtain
Being waitlisted isn’t the end — it’s an opportunity. In this episode of CollegeShortcuts Insider, Neha, founder of CollegeShortcuts, breaks down the seven essential steps to take if your student is waitlisted. From demonstrating interest to managing expectations and preparing for any outcome, this guide helps parents and students navigate the uncertainty with confidence and strategy.
info_outlineIn this episode, Neha exposes the reality behind Early Decision — who benefits, who gets left behind, and why a major lawsuit is calling out elite colleges for unfair practices. Learn what every family must understand before committing to a binding application.