Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

Does thinking about applying to college, grad school, or prep school make your head spin? The Admittedly Podcast is for both parents and students preparing for or navigating school admissions. We aim to demystify the admissions process and share with you what you really need to know to succeed. Our host, Thomas Caleel, former director of MBA admissions and financial aid for the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, is here to help. He is a lifelong entrepreneur and CEO of a global admissions consulting agency where he works with families worldwide to help them achieve their educational goals. New episodes go live every Tuesday and Thursday. Learn from our guest speakers, live coaching sessions, and weekly solo episodes. Have admissions questions you'd like answered on the show? Apply to be coached by Thomas himself on one of our upcoming recordings. In this podcast, we don't promise easy answers or quick fixes. But with decades of experience under his belt, Thomas will address the practical aspects of applying to school and how to think like an admissions officer to improve your college or prep school application.

S4E39: How to Plan a Strategic Summer (Before It’s Too Late) 11/18/2025

S4E39: How to Plan a Strategic Summer (Before It’s Too Late) In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel explains why freshmen, sophomores, and juniors should begin planning their summer programs and activities long before spring. Drawing on decades of experience in college admissions, he breaks down what actually matters, what doesn’t, and why early planning is one of the most overlooked competitive advantages in high school. Rather than chasing “name-brand” programs, Thomas helps families understand how to build a summer that aligns with a student’s interests, goals, and developing narrative without getting caught in the trap of expensive pre-college programs that don’t move the needle. Key Takeaways Start Early: Selective summer programs open applications between December and February, and scholarships disappear quickly. Early planning gives students real options. Not All Programs Matter: Most pre-college programs hosted on university campuses do not impact admissions. Only a small handful are truly selective. Depth Beats Prestige: Admissions officers care about why you chose an experience and what you learned—not the brand name attached to it. Strong Summers Don’t Require Money: Jobs, volunteering, community work, or building your own project can be just as impactful as formal programs. Explore With Intention: The best summer activities for high school students show curiosity, consistency, and growth (not a checklist of unrelated activities). Summer is one of the most misunderstood pieces of the college admissions puzzle. Whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, or junior, planning early helps you create meaningful experiences, avoid rushed decisions, and build a narrative that stands out. This episode breaks down how to think strategically about summer programs, jobs, volunteering, and independent opportunities so your choices actually support your long-term goals. Families can find more resources on summer planning at and on Instagram and TikTok at @admittedlyco. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/39081380

S4E38: The Hidden Half of College Admissions: What Students Overlook (and What Actually Matters) 11/04/2025

S4E38: The Hidden Half of College Admissions: What Students Overlook (and What Actually Matters) In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel reveals the hidden half of the college admissions process, the part most families never think about. Students spend years stacking achievements and building resumes, but the truth is that admissions officers care less about what you have done and far more about why you have done it. Drawing from two decades of experience, including his time as Director of MBA Admissions at the Wharton School, Thomas explains why resume racing does not work, how to uncover authentic motivation, and what real introspection looks like in practice. Through powerful examples from students he has guided, from costume designers to community leaders, this episode unpacks how self-awareness, focus, and coherence make the difference between a good application and a great one. Key Takeaways 1. The Resume Myth Admissions is not a checklist. Doing more does not make you stand out; it makes you blend in. Top schools see thousands of “captains,” “presidents,” and “founders.” What matters is why you chose what you did and what you learned along the way. 2. Depth Over Breadth Students who slow down and invest deeply in a few meaningful pursuits instead of chasing every opportunity demonstrate maturity, focus, and authenticity. Less really can be more. 3. Introspection Is Power Reflection builds connection. Admissions officers can feel when an applicant understands themselves. The best essays do not just describe activities; they reveal growth, intention, and purpose. 4. Narrative Coherence Wins When your choices, experiences, and essays fit together naturally, you tell a story that admissions officers can remember and advocate for. That is the hidden skill behind every standout applicant. College admissions is not just about proving what you have done; it is about showing who you have become. Visit for free resources, guides, and upcoming webinar dates. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/38914810

S4E37: The 3 Biggest Mistakes Students Make in High School (And How to Fix Them Before Senior Year) 10/28/2025

S4E37: The 3 Biggest Mistakes Students Make in High School (And How to Fix Them Before Senior Year) In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the three most common mistakes he sees students make year after year in the college admissions process — and how to correct them before it’s too late. Drawing on more than two decades of admissions experience, including his time as Director of MBA Admissions at UPenn’s Wharton School, Thomas explains why the strongest applicants aren’t just the ones with high GPAs or perfect test scores. They’re the ones who build a compelling story, act strategically, and take ownership of their journey. Whether your student is just starting high school or in the middle of the application process, this episode offers practical advice on how to stand out in today’s hyper-competitive admissions landscape. Key Takeaways 1. No Story Top students don’t just collect activities — they craft a clear narrative. Admissions officers want to understand who you are, what drives you, and how your choices connect. Story-building starts earlier than most families think, and it requires intentional reflection. 2. No Strategy Doing everything is not a strategy. Students who spread themselves too thin dilute their impact. Thomas shares how to audit your commitments, focus on meaningful pursuits, and show depth over breadth — the key to a memorable application. 3. No Ownership Parents, counselors, and peers can offer support, but the most powerful applications come from students who take charge of their journey. True ownership builds voice, maturity, and self-awareness — qualities that can’t be faked in essays or interviews. Even in a world of rising selectivity and grade inflation, students who approach the process with story, strategy, and ownership stand out. Visit for free resources and guidance on college admissions. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/38815140

S4E36: No, College Admissions Aren’t Getting Easier in 2026: Here’s What You CAN Control 10/21/2025

S4E36: No, College Admissions Aren’t Getting Easier in 2026: Here’s What You CAN Control In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down why college admissions at Ivy League and other top universities are more competitive than ever—and what students and parents can still control in the process. Despite social media myths about an “easier” year ahead, Thomas explains why application numbers remain high, selectivity rates are dropping, and grade inflation is blurring academic distinctions. Drawing on decades of admissions experience, he reveals how to focus on what actually moves the needle: differentiation, strategy, and authentic engagement. Key Takeaways: Admit Rates Stay Low: Even with visa changes and testing shifts, top schools like Columbia, Penn, and Stanford continue to see rising applications and falling admit rates. The qualified applicant pool is bigger, not smaller. Qualified Isn’t Enough: Perfect grades and test scores don’t guarantee admission anymore. What separates top candidates is coherence—the ability to connect activities, essays, and recommendations into a clear, intentional story. Differentiate or Disappear: Students who follow formulas or copy peers’ paths blend into the crowd. The strongest applicants take risks, pursue genuine interests deeply, and craft an application that reflects individuality, not perfection. Parents, Step Back Strategically: Thomas offers a direct message to parents—how to support without pressuring, and why old admissions playbooks no longer apply. Honest evaluation, early preparation, and outside perspective are key. Control What You Can: Grades and scores matter, but the true edge lies in strategy—building academic rigor, refining narratives, and making decisions with long-term intention. Admissions to top universities aren’t getting easier. But with clarity, focus, and the right approach, students can still stand out. Follow @admittedlyco on Instagram and TikTok for more college admissions strategy, and visit for webinars, guides, and expert support. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/38729560

S4E35: Confidence, Clarity, and College Admissions: Global Tutoring Insights with Advantage Testing’s Matthew Demmer 10/07/2025

S4E34: Inside the Review Room – How Admissions Officers Read Applications 09/30/2025

S4E33: Do The SAT and ACT Still Matter? Test Optional Policies and the Ivy League Explained 09/26/2025

S4E33: Do The SAT and ACT Still Matter? Test Optional Policies and the Ivy League Explained In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel unpacks one of the most debated topics in college admissions: test optional policies. Are they really leveling the playing field, or just creating more confusion? Drawing from his decades of admissions experience, Thomas explains how test optional began, what it means for students today, and why the future of standardized testing is shifting once again. Key Takeaways The Origins of Test Optional: COVID-19 accelerated the move away from testing, with schools adopting test optional to expand diversity and boost application numbers. Equity and Access: Standardized tests often disadvantage lower-income students due to differences in tutoring access, prep resources, and early exposure to academic vocabulary. The Reality vs. PR: Colleges also use test optional strategically: to lower admit rates, attract more applicants, and keep flexibility for admits such as athletes or donor-linked students. Why Test Scores Still Matter: Strong SAT/ACT results can offset weaker grades, help combat grade inflation, and provide admissions officers with a clearer measure of academic readiness. Who Benefits from Test Optional: Policies may help first-gen, low-income, or students with extenuating circumstances — but for many, not submitting scores can raise red flags. The Road Ahead: Elite schools like MIT, Yale, and Dartmouth are reinstating test requirements. For 2025 and beyond, students should treat testing as essential. Practical Advice for Students: Start preparing early. Use free tools like Khan Academy, peer tutoring, or paid resources. Build consistency and discipline, because “hope is not a strategy.” Test optional policies may change, but one thing remains constant: preparation and intentional strategy make all the difference. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @admittedlyco for more admissions guidance, and visit for free resources, webinars, and expert support as you plan your college journey. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/38367475

S4E32: Applying to Columbia: How to Write Your 2025 Supplements For Success 09/19/2025

S4E31: Cracking the UPenn Supplements: Thank-You Note & Community Essay Tips 09/19/2025

S4E30: Applying to Yale: A Guide to the Short Answers and Essays 09/18/2025

S4E29: How to Approach Harvard’s 2025 Supplemental Essays for Admissions Success 09/18/2025

S4E28: Stanford Supplements 2025: How to Approach Them (and What to Avoid) 09/17/2025

S4E27: Complacency or Commitment: The Choice That Defines Ivy+ Outcomes 09/09/2025

S4E26: The Joy of Tutoring: Arun Alagappan on Reducing Anxiety and Unlocking Potential 08/21/2025

S4E26: The Joy of Tutoring: Arun Alagappan on Reducing Anxiety and Unlocking Potential In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas Caleel sits down with Arun Alagappan, founder and president of Advantage Testing, one of the most respected names in academic tutoring and test preparation. A Princeton and Harvard Law alum, Arun has spent nearly four decades redefining what tutoring can and should be: an uplifting, empowering experience that fosters both academic mastery and lifelong curiosity. Arun shares his journey from his very first tutoring session as a teenager to building Advantage Testing into a nationally recognized institution. He reflects on the clarity it took to leave a traditional legal career path for education, the principles that continue to guide his work, and the vital role of empathy, attention, and kindness in effective teaching. The conversation also explores: The origins of Advantage Testing and what inspired Arun to make tutoring his life’s work What makes a great tutor beyond test scores and credentials Ethics in tutoring, addressing concerns around pressure and fairness Managing anxiety in academics and testing with conscious learning strategies Equity and access through the Advantage Testing Foundation and university partnerships The role of parents in supporting, not pressuring, their children’s learning journey What truly drives student success: grit, resilience, intellectual curiosity, and joy in learning Arun’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that tutoring, when done with integrity and care, is not just about acing a test. It is about equipping young people with the confidence and tools to thrive far beyond the classroom. Guest: Arun Alagappan – Founder and President of Advantage Testing, educator, thought leader, and advocate for educational equity. Learn more: Follow Admittedly on Instagram and TikTok: @admittedlyco Follow Advantage Testing on Instagram: @advantagetesting /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/37904345

S4E25: The 2025 Admissions Reality — How Funding Cuts, Student Visas, and Campus Culture Will Shape This Cycle 08/15/2025

S4E25: The 2025 Admissions Reality — How Funding Cuts, Student Visas, and Campus Culture Will Shape This Cycle In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes a strategic pause to break down the seismic shifts hitting higher education right now—and what they mean for your application this year. From sweeping funding cuts at top universities, to uncertainty for international students, to new pressures for changes in campus culture, the landscape is changing fast. Thomas unpacks how these forces intersect with admissions strategy, why legacy students may have an edge once again, and why you still can’t rely on luck or shortcuts. This is the episode to hear if you want to stay ahead of the curve and play this year’s admissions game with eyes wide open. Key Takeaways: Funding Cuts Have Ripple Effects: Multi-million-dollar hits to endowments mean less money for research, professors, and student services. While no one is officially admitting it, full-pay and legacy applicants could benefit as schools seek financial stability. International Students Face More Uncertainty: Visa approvals may be shakier, and aid for non-U.S. students could shrink. If you’re applying from abroad, diversify your list globally and take a long-term view toward grad school opportunities. “Non-Controversial” Is the New Campus Buzzword: Universities are feeling pressure to avoid volatile environments. Expect closer scrutiny of your online presence. This Is Not Carte Blanche: Even with shifts in seat allocation, hyper-selective schools will still reject most applicants. Strategy, rigor, and impact still matter more than ever. The bottom line? This may be a year of advantage for certain applicants, but the bar for admission remains sky-high. Your best play is to get strategic, stay authentic, and present your story with discipline and clarity. Are you feeling these changes in your own application plans? Share your thoughts with Thomas directly @admittedlyco on Instagram and TikTok. For deeper guidance, join our free monthly webinars and explore resources at . /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/37839170

S4E24: The Road Starts Early — Middle School Advice With Dr. Peggy Burich Smith 08/03/2025

S4E23: The 2025 Common App (What to Know Before You Start) 07/26/2025

S4E22: Applying Early to College (When It Helps—and When It Hurts) 07/18/2025

S4E21: Playing to Win—How Student Athletes Get Admitted 07/11/2025

S4E21: Playing to Win—How Student Athletes Get Admitted 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 picture. Key Takeaways: Athletics Aren’t a Free Pass: No one gets into top schools just for being good at a sport. The strongest athletic applicants have rock-solid academics and clear stories beyond the field. Recruited or Not, the Work’s on You: Coaches are building teams, not handing out admissions letters. You need to communicate, self-advocate, and show who you are outside of your sport. Go Beyond the Game: Branch out into leadership, service, or mentorship. Coach younger students, join clubs, or connect with causes that matter to you. Being a one-dimensional applicant isn’t enough. Think Carefully About That Essay: Injury? Tough loss? Yes, it’s personal—but it’s also common. If you’re writing about sports, make sure your voice and perspective are uniquely yours. Whether you're aiming for recruitment or just trying to showcase the full picture of who you are, remember: admissions officers want well-rounded, self-aware students. Sports may be a big part of your life, but they shouldn’t be the only thing that defines you. Are you balancing sports and academics? Wondering what’s next for your student-athlete journey? DM us your questions on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco. And don’t forget to visit for free resources, webinars, and support. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/37378520

S4E20: The Additional Info Section—What to Say (and What to Skip) 07/04/2025

S4E20: The Additional Info Section—What to Say (and What to Skip) 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 of the application to support their overall narrative. Key Takeaways: It’s 300 Words—Use Them Strategically: The Additional Info section is no longer a backup personal statement. It’s for critical context only. Don’t use it to repeat your resume or cram in extra accomplishments—use it to clarify, explain, or add value. Framing Matters: Ask yourself—what am I trying to communicate? Does this support my overall application strategy, or distract from it? Resumes Are a Separate Tool: Many schools allow uploads in their supplements. Keep it clean, relevant, and under two pages. A well-structured resume can fill in the gaps—but only if it’s thoughtful and well-organized. Less Is More: The strongest applications are curated, not crammed. This is your chance to be intentional and show maturity in your self-presentation. There’s a lot more to discuss when it comes to essays and application strategy—so be sure to subscribe, follow us on TikTok and Instagram @admittedlyco, and check out our free monthly webinars and expert resources. We want to hear from you. What questions do you have about essays, resumes, or building your strategy? Drop us a DM—we’re in this together. Visit for more insights and support. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/37278445

S4E19: Don’t Write Your Essay Yet (Start Here Instead) 06/28/2025

S4E19: Don’t Write Your Essay Yet (Start Here Instead) 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 a report or a resume. It’s a moment of insight—into you. Don’t chase a prompt or a gimmick. Don’t copy the essays you see online. Start with self-reflection and honesty. Don’t Just Tell—Show: One of the biggest mistakes students make is summarizing their growth instead of illustrating it. Let the reader walk through the moment with you. Use specifics. Invite them in. Simple Is Powerful: Admissions officers are reading hundreds of essays. If your voice is authentic and clear, it will stand out. Avoid over-complicating your structure or language. Let your story breathe. No Trauma Required: The best essays aren’t necessarily dramatic. Many standout essays are grounded in small moments—written with heart, self-awareness, and intention. How Do You Find Your Topic? Through deep reflection. We share some of the key questions to ask yourself as you start the process, and real-life examples of students who transformed ordinary experiences into extraordinary essays. Writing your essay isn’t about finding a magic formula—it’s about getting to the heart of who you are. If you’re just getting started, this episode will help you build a strong foundation for everything that follows. Have questions about your essay? DM us on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco—we’re here to support you. Visit for more free resources and expert guidance. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/37199870

S4E18: Sophomore Year Done Right (Q&A for Rising 10th Graders) 06/20/2025

S4E17: Rising Seniors: Planning, Positioning, and Building Your Edge 06/13/2025

S4E17: Rising Seniors: Planning, Positioning, and Building Your Edge 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 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 for free resources, tools, and expert support to help you stay on track. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/36995550

S4E16: Harvard, International Students, and How We Got Here 05/30/2025

S4E15: The Introvert’s Guide to Standing Out in College Admissions 05/16/2025

S4E15: The Introvert’s Guide to Standing Out in College Admissions 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, this episode will help you reframe what leadership, initiative, and involvement really mean—and how to lean into your strengths, even if they look different from everyone else’s. Key Takeaways: Being Introverted Isn’t a Red Flag: You don’t need to lead 100 people to be seen as a leader. You just need to show passion, initiative, and depth—on your own terms. Independent Work Still Counts as Involvement: Internships, research, and solo projects are valid forms of engagement. If you're working with a local lab, nature center, or professor—that is community involvement. But You Can’t Stay in a Bubble: Doing everything in isolation won’t cut it. Admissions officers are looking for signs that you'll engage with a college community. Find ways to bring your work into the world—through mentorship, volunteering, presentations, or collaboration. Top Schools Value Depth Over Performance: Real curiosity and consistency go further than surface-level leadership. What matters most is how well you understand yourself and how thoughtfully you pursue your interests. You don’t need to be someone else to succeed in this process—but you do need to stretch. That might mean presenting your research, finding collaborators, or simply joining a community tied to your interest. Whatever your personality, the key is showing that your work doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Let your ideas breathe outside your own world. You’re not applying to college to live alone in a lab or in your head—you’re joining a community. Admissions officers want to see that you’re ready for that in a way that’s still true to who you are. Are you an introvert navigating this process? We want to hear your story. DM us your questions @admittedlyco on Instagram or TikTok. Visit for more resources and support. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/36599445

S4E14: The ‘Passion Project’ Trap (And What Actually Works) 05/09/2025

S4E14: The ‘Passion Project’ Trap (And What Actually Works) 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 privilege, some without—who pursued their passions authentically and got into top-tier schools. The difference? Intention, effort, and heart. Key Takeaways: Performative Projects CAN Hurt You: If your project lacks depth, commitment, or clarity of purpose, it can work against you in admissions. Officers can see when something is done just to “check a box.” Do What You’re Genuinely Passionate About: The goal isn’t to impress—it’s to express. Focus on meaningful work that reflects you. This is how you stand out. Less is More: Don't try to do everything. Do fewer things, but do them well. Authenticity and depth beat quantity every time. You Don’t Need Funds to Make an Impact: Thomas shares examples of students who made real change with limited resources. Grit, creativity, and initiative matter more than funding. As we head into summer, take a hard look at how you're spending your most valuable resource: your time. This is not about checking a box—it’s about building something meaningful, something that reflects who you are and what you truly care about. Ask yourself: What fills your cup? What drains it? Have the courage to step away from the things that no longer serve you. Don’t build a project for the sake of appearances. Build something that matters—to you, and to the world. Tell us what you’re working on, what you're considering, and what questions you have. We’re here for the journey. Start the conversation with us @admittedlyco on Instagram and TikTok! /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/36501235

S4E13: The Truth About Competitive Admissions: Hard Work Isn’t Optional 05/02/2025

S4E13: The Truth About Competitive Admissions: Hard Work Isn’t Optional In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel tackles one of the most important truths in college admissions—and life: Hard things are hard. Whether you’re aiming for a top-tier university or defining your own path, real achievement demands effort, reflection, and a mindset shift. This episode breaks down why checking boxes won’t cut it, why your story has to come from you, and how to reframe the pressure into something powerful. Key Takeaways: Hard Work Is Non-Negotiable: No one can hand you a college admissions success story. Counselors can guide you, but reflection, risk-taking, and self-direction are essential to stand out. Admissions officers notice when you’ve done the real work. Mindset Shifts Everything: The grind—jobs, learning, even failure—builds character. Your growth and self-awareness are what make your application memorable. Lazy shortcuts don’t win respect, but showing up every day does. The Ivy League Myth: Not everyone needs to aim for the Ivy League. But if it is your goal, you need to be ready for the rigor. Prestige can’t replace effort. No amount of money or privilege can buy self-knowledge, drive, or a great essay. No One Can Do It For You: Parents, consultants, or paid programs can’t manufacture authenticity. Your application is your story, and the best essays come from knowing yourself—and owning your path. Everyone is struggling with something—even those who make it look easy. We’re here to support you through the process, help you focus on what matters, and remind you: it’s hard, but it’s doable. What’s been the hardest part of this process for you? How have you pushed through? Share your story with us @admittedlyco on Instagram and TikTok. And don’t forget to follow the show, catch our weekly episodes, and stay on the lookout for our next live webinar. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/36397075

S4E12: Admissions Are Changing for International Students: What You Need To Know 04/25/2025

S4E11: Your Summer Fell Apart… Now What? 04/18/2025

S4E11: Your Summer Fell Apart… Now What? 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 Real—But They’re Not Fatal: Summer research programs and opportunities are evaporating, especially at top schools. But admissions officers know what’s happening. These changes won't ruin your application—as long as you respond thoughtfully. Keep the Door Open: If something falls through, don’t just walk away. Reach out to the professor or program lead. Ask for recommendations, referrals, or alternate ideas. Maintain the relationship and keep building in your field. Revisit the ‘Why’: Ask yourself—what was I trying to get from this opportunity? Identify the core purpose and find another way to meet it. It’s not about checking a box; it’s about showing growth and curiosity. Commit to the Pivot: Whatever you do next, commit fully. A two-week filler won’t cut it. This is still your story. And it can be just as compelling—if not more—when you show how you made something meaningful out of a setback. There’s going to be a lot of change in the coming months. More programs may disappear. More plans may fall through. Take a breath. You’ve got this. The truth is—life doesn’t go according to plan. But how do you respond to these changes? That’s what admissions officers are really watching for. Show them resilience, creativity, and drive. That’s what sets you apart. Have you had a summer opportunity disrupted? What are you planning to do instead? Let us know on Instagram or TikTok @admittedlyco. We want to hear from you and help others navigate this too. /episode/index/show/0d82b450-fcc2-4086-b871-7e76ac366a12/id/36208555

S4E10 End-of-Year Check-In: Are You on Track for College? 04/11/2025

Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

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