collegepreppodcast's podcast

Better grades with less stress on your path to the perfect college. Join Megan Dorsey and Erin Tempest as they discuss strategies for SAT/ACT prep, academic planning, study skills, finding the right college, and how to develop successful applications. We know higher education isn't a one size fits all process and we discuss the unique paths and challenges to finding success at a school that is right for you.

Our Last Episode 08/19/2026

Summer of Skills: Cleaning/Tidying 08/03/2026

College Essays: What's Your Passion? 07/27/2026

Summer of Skills: Organization 07/20/2026

College Essays: Discuss a Favorite Book 07/13/2026

Summer of Skills: Decluttering Your Bedroom 07/06/2026

College Essays: How Have You Impacted Your Community? 06/29/2026

Summer of Skills: Self-Care 06/22/2026

College Essays: What Do You Want to Study? 06/15/2026

Summer of Skills: Habit Loops 06/08/2026

College Essays: Why Do You Want to Apply Here? 05/25/2026

How to Build a Rigorous (But Not Crushing) High School Schedule 05/18/2026

How to Build a Rigorous (But Not Crushing) High School Schedule Megan and Erin discussed how to build a rigorous but manageable high school schedule that balances academic rigor with student well-being. College Course Planning Strategy Megan and Erin discussed building a rigorous but manageable school schedule, emphasizing that colleges evaluate both grades and course difficulty when reviewing applications. They highlighted the importance of balancing strong grades with challenging classes, noting that simply achieving high grades in easy courses doesn't guarantee college admission. The conversation focused on addressing common misconceptions about course selection and academic planning for college preparation. High School Course Structure Planning Megan outlined the ideal high school course structure, which includes English, Math, History, Science, and Foreign Language as core subjects, with students taking at least one rigorous course per year. She advised students to evaluate their ability to handle higher-level classes like honors, IB, AP, or accelerated courses rather than focusing solely on personal preference. Megan emphasized the importance of forward-thinking and considering academic challenges when making course selection decisions. Academic Course Level Discussion Megan shared an anecdote about a student who struggled in advanced pre-calculus due to emotional attachment to being labeled as a "smart kid," rather than accepting that the class was too challenging. Megan explained that colleges typically prefer seeing students succeed in regular-level courses rather than fail repeatedly in honors classes. She advised that it's okay to excel in some subjects while struggling in others, and suggested that stepping up to more challenging courses is often easier than stepping down, contrary to parents' concerns about starting with easier courses. Course Selection Strategy Advice Megan advised Erin to choose more challenging courses when in doubt, emphasizing that it's easier to reduce rigor later if needed. She recommended filling core course requirements first, then considering other mandatory credits like arts or theology requirements. Megan noted that students often make the mistake of trying to create a college-like course schedule rather than focusing on the basic requirements first. High School Specialization Challenges Megan and Erin discussed the challenges of specializing in high school subjects, noting that most high school requirements focus on core academic courses, leaving limited room for specialization. They emphasized that colleges expect a broad liberal arts education rather than early specialization. The conversation then shifted to the importance of balancing academics with other commitments, including extracurricular activities, and the need to assess the feasibility of a proposed schedule before making requests to the school. Academic-Extracurricular Balance Discussion Megan and Erin discussed the balance between academic and extracurricular commitments, emphasizing that it should be a family decision tailored to each student's individual circumstances. Megan highlighted that while some students can successfully manage heavy loads of AP courses, sports, and extracurricular activities, others may become overly stressed, affecting their performance across all areas. They agreed that parents know their children best and should consider their child's well-being and ability to manage multiple demanding activities when making decisions about course load and involvement in extracurriculars. College Preparation Mistake Discussion Megan and Erin discussed common student mistakes regarding college preparation and course selection. They highlighted how students sometimes prioritize sports over academic preparation, even when the sport will end soon, and how others choose courses based on perceived college requirements rather than personal interests or career goals. The conversation focused on the importance of aligning course choices with students' actual interests and future plans rather than following unverified rumors about college admissions preferences. Course Scheduling for College Applications Megan advised Erin to align her course schedule with her college application goals, emphasizing that taking advanced classes like AP courses is crucial for applying to highly selective academic institutions. Megan explained that students cannot expect to be competitive for certain colleges while choosing easier courses and maintaining off periods. She recommended prioritizing core academic courses and required credits like PE and arts, suggesting that once these are scheduled, the remaining course choices become more manageable. /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/41052820

Surprising Results: Erin's Admissions Questions 05/11/2026

What Should You Do With Your PSAT Results (and How They Might Earn You Scholarships) 05/04/2026

What Should You Do With Your PSAT Results (and How They Might Earn You Scholarships) Megan and Erin discussed the importance of utilizing PSAT results to identify areas for improvement and prepare for future standardized tests. They explain how to access and interpret PSAT scores, focusing on analyzing specific subject areas rather than just the overall score. Megan emphasizes the value of reviewing results early, particularly for high-achieving students who could potentially qualify for National Merit Scholarships. PSAT Results Review Discussion Megan and Erin discussed the importance of reviewing PSAT results and establishing a feedback loop beyond just taking the test. Megan explained that while schools provide digital access to results through College Board accounts, many students may not check them due to forgetting about the test or not understanding their relevance. They emphasized that even late in the school year, reviewing PSAT scores can provide benefits for students' preparation. Accessing and Using PSAT Scores Megan explained how to access and use PSAT scores, starting with logging into the College Board account and potentially creating a new login if needed. She noted that students may need a code from their school counselor to match the test taken at school with the account. Megan emphasized the importance of noting login credentials, as they will be used for multiple years, including for AP coursework and college applications. She also mentioned that PSAT scores are similar to SAT scores and not the primary focus. PSAT Scoring System Explanation Megan explained the scoring system for the PSAT, noting that the perfect score has been reduced to 1520, down from 1600. She advised focusing on the detailed breakdown of performance across four categories in reading and four in math, particularly highlighting the math categories: algebra, advanced math (including quadratics and Algebra 2), data, and geometry. Megan used an example of a 9th grader's PSAT results to illustrate how to analyze the breakdown of scores. Knowledge Maintenance and SAT Preparation Megan and Erin discussed challenges in maintaining knowledge across different subjects. Megan advised that reviewing lost concepts requires more effort than casual review, especially if a student was completely lost in a subject due to poor teaching or lack of engagement. Digital Test Feedback Limitations Megan discussed the limitations of current test results, noting that students no longer receive detailed feedback on missed questions as they did with paper exams. She explained that while digital tests provide basic information about content areas where students struggled, they lack the ability to review specific incorrect answers, which was previously helpful for understanding mistakes. Test Results Review Strategy Megan advised focusing on percentile rankings rather than numerical scores when reviewing test results, emphasizing that students should aim to be in the top half rather than the bottom. She suggested using test results as an early warning system to identify areas needing improvement, rather than waiting until junior year to address gaps in academic abilities. Megan also mentioned that students can focus their studying on specific weak areas once they receive their results, rather than trying to improve everything at once. PSAT Results and Scholarships Megan explained how to interpret PSAT results, particularly focusing on the selection index and its relevance to National Merit Scholarship qualifications. She noted that while 9th and 10th grade scores are valuable for identifying strong test-takers, only 11th grade PSAT scores count toward National Merit Scholarship consideration, with candidates typically needing to be in the top 3% of their state with a score around 220 or higher. Megan also mentioned that while prestigious universities may not offer significant incentives for National Merit scholars, many other colleges provide financial benefits to attract these students. Score Baseline Discussion Megan and Erin discussed the importance of using PSAT scores to establish a baseline for academic performance and determine study focus areas. Megan advised against taking the SAT unprepared to establish a baseline, as the PSAT serves this purpose effectively. Megan offers suggestions for students who don't have access to the PSAT at school prior to 11th grade. PSAT Practice and Preparation Strategies Megan suggested using College Board's online practice PSAT tests, which include automatic grading and detailed feedback to help students understand their mistakes and improve their performance. She emphasized the benefits of taking a preliminary PSAT, whether in 9th or 10th grade, to get familiar with the digital platform and identify areas for improvement. Megan encouraged anyone with questions about PSAT scores or National Merit to email the College Prep podcast team at collegeprepodcast(at)gmail.com. /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/41052475

Current Trends in Education 04/27/2026

Current Trends in Education Megan and Erin discussed Erin's recent experience at South by Southwest, where she attended sessions focused on AI in education and executive function coaching. Executive Function Coaching Certification Discussion Erin and Megan discussed the importance of using accurate vocabulary when talking about executive function and the challenges of identifying qualified coaches. Erin shared insights from a conference about a questionable board certification for executive functioning and recommended asking potential coaches specific questions about their approach to identifying and addressing executive function issues. They also discussed a course on mastering executive functioning that parents could take to better understand and support their children's needs. Simulating Learning Disabilities Experience Erin and Megan discussed an educational activity where they experienced simulating dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and dyslexia. During the activity, Erin and former cohost Gretchen had a conflict over following instructions, which escalated into general frustration among participants. Megan observed that the exercise highlighted how educators might forget what it's like to be a struggling student and noted the lack of nervous system regulation techniques provided at the end of the session. Student Competition and Recognition Challenges Erin shared her experience of feeling competitive and cheating during a classroom exercise where students had to trace and replicate signatures. Despite getting a good score of 4 out of 10, Erin felt disappointed that her achievement wasn't recognized, highlighting how students often don't receive acknowledgment for their efforts. Megan reflected on the importance of educators and parents putting themselves in students' positions to better understand their experiences and provide appropriate support and grace. Educational Technology Tool Sharing Erin shared two educational technology tools she found interesting. The first was Share the Board, which allows teachers to record whiteboard lessons while capturing and displaying the content on screen, enabling students to review and interact with the material later. The second tool was Banter Box, an app that enables interactive conversations with historical texts and primary documents, allowing users to ask questions and have discussions with characters like Hamilton or Frederick Douglass. Megan inquired about the app's ability to provide sources for its responses, to which Erin was unsure but believed it might indicate when it couldn't answer specific questions. Educational Technology Conference Insights Erin shared insights about two educational technologies she encountered at a conference. She discussed Banter Box, which uses AI to make historical texts more engaging by allowing users to interact with them, and Florio, a VR system designed for special needs classrooms to help students practice real-life skills in a safe environment. The conversation highlighted how these technologies can help students with various challenges, including nonverbal communication and trauma recovery, while also sparking discussions about responsible screen time and technology implementation in education. Resources: Here are links to the resources Erin mentioned: /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/40954740

Five Things you can do RIGHT NOW to Make College Admissions Easier 04/20/2026

Five Things you can do RIGHT NOW to Make College Admissions Easier Megan and Erin discussed five key actions families can take throughout high school to make college admissions easier, emphasizing actions families can take from freshman year through junior year. Megan highlighted the importance of consistent planning and outlined key tasks for each year, while Erin shared insights and actionable items. They agreed on the value of starting early and maintaining a steady approach throughout high school to streamline the college application process. High School GPA Tracking Guide Megan advised on high school grade tracking, emphasizing the importance of calculating and recording unweighted GPAs annually. She suggested keeping a running document of semester averages and cumulative totals, using either digital tools or traditional methods, to help students and families better understand and manage academic performance. Unweighted GPAs are more relevant to colleges and can prevent surprises during the application process, as demonstrated by Erin's recent experience with a student who misunderstood their GPA. College Application Resume Planning Megan and Erin discussed the importance of maintaining an updated resume for college applications and other opportunities. They suggested creating a "dump list" of all activities and experiences, which can then be curated for specific purposes. They emphasized the value of including unique skills, honors, awards, and service activities, even if they seem minor. College Planning Strategy Discussion Megan and Erin discussed college planning, emphasizing the importance of starting early, particularly in 9th grade, by visiting 2-3 local colleges annually. Megan advised taking notes on likes and dislikes during visits to build a college list later. They highlighted the need to avoid last-minute planning, especially for juniors, and suggested exploring schools online if in-person visits are not feasible. Megan also recommended planning noteworthy activities each year, such as summer programs, to enhance college applications. Summer Meaningful Activities Discussion Megan discussed the importance of engaging in meaningful activities during the summer, emphasizing personal enrichment over resume-building. She suggested that these experiences could serve as inspiration for college admissions essays, encouraging students to pursue activities that are personally noteworthy. Megan also proposed organizing a family meeting to discuss this further. Family College Planning Meeting Erin and Megan discussed the importance of holding a family meeting to align on college-related expectations, including affordability, potential out-of-state attendance, and academic preferences. They emphasized the need to address these topics early to avoid future complications, such as limiting college choices due to financial constraints or academic preferences. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/40954455

Can Students Avoid Online College Classes? 04/13/2026

Can Students Avoid Online College Classes? Today Megan and Erin answer a listener question about online classes and brainstorm ideas for students, parents, and educators to help avoid a schedule full of unwanted online college classes. Laurie wrote: I have noticed a trend the past two years that is frustrating the students I work with and I would love to hear your and Erin's perspectives and thoughts. Out of about dozen college freshman that I worked with last year, 8 of them have come home on their holiday break from college disappointed because they had so many online classes their first semester. They are very discouraged and it's all I could do to talk them into not transferring but trying to advocate for themselves and talk to their advisors about not accepting online classes semester 2. Thoughts/ questions: Why are colleges and universities doing this? Budget cuts? Lack of professors? They have to know that sitting in your dorm, alone and doing an online class is not an optimal experience for new freshman. Should we encourage parents to help advise their students when they register for classes their first semester? Just to peek over their shoulder and make sure they are not stuck in a bunch of online classes? They right amount of parent involvement is a fine line... How can we help students learn to advocate for themselves? They do not have to accept the first schedule they are offered- and one that is likely generated by an algorithm. What can they say and do when they need to change it? My students say they felt trapped, like they shouldn't be "difficult" or that it wouldn't be possible to find all their classes in person, or they didn't know how exactly to make changes. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/40945510

624: Some Surprising College Rejections 04/06/2026

624: Some Surprising College Rejections Megan and Erin discuss common surprising college rejections and how to avoid them. College rejections are often based on numerical limitations rather than personal judgment, but they still hurt. While some rejection is expected with competitive admissions, there are some steps parents and students can take to minimize disappointment. Preventable Mistakes Megan and Erin discussed preventable mistakes. They highlighted the importance of completing all parts of the application and submitting it by the deadline, as well as following up on required information from others. Megan emphasized that parents should oversee their child's application process, given the significant investment in college. They also addressed how standards have changed over time, urging applicants to research current competitiveness of schools rather than relying on outdated information. The Importance of Your College List Megan and Erin discussed the challenges families face when their children are rejected from their first-choice colleges, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and planning. Megan highlighted the need for families to consider backup options early and avoid last-minute scrambles, while also suggesting alternative paths like gap years or community college if necessary. They agreed that overqualified students who show little interest in a school may be rejected, and parents often struggle to understand these decisions. College Admissions Yield vs Qualifications Megan explained to Erin that some smaller private schools prioritize yield over raw qualifications, and students who show little interest in a school may be overlooked in favor of more engaged candidates. She noted that participating in college rankings can have unintended consequences, including affecting a school's willingness to accept a student. Megan also discussed how some parents struggle to understand what "highly competitive" means, particularly when their child is not accepted by their preferred school. College Admissions Misconceptions Discussion Megan and Erin discussed the misconceptions students have about college admissions, particularly regarding highly selective schools. Megan explained that applying to multiple highly selective schools does not increase a student's chances of admission, as each school's acceptance rate remains the same regardless of the number of applications. She emphasized that students and parents need to understand that even top candidates can be rejected from these schools, and encouraged them to consider schools that are a better fit for the student's profile. College Admissions Preparation Strategies Megan and Erin discussed the importance of preparing for both good and bad news in college admissions, emphasizing the value of a diverse college list and careful application processes. They highlighted the emotional impact of not getting into a preferred school, but stressed the importance of considering alternative options and finding a better fit. Megan shared her daughter's experience of being rejected by an early decision school and ultimately being happier at her current institution, illustrating that sometimes not getting into a desired school can lead to a more suitable outcome. They encouraged listeners to research their options, ask questions, and reach out via email for further support. /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/40513940

623: Your Major Doesn't Determine Your Future 03/30/2026

623: Your Major Doesn't Determine Your Future Megan and Erin discuss the importance of not rushing to decide a college major, especially for high school students who may not have been exposed to all possible fields of study. Many students change their majors during college and that the degree itself is less important than the skills and experiences gained. Some key issues: Choosing a college major as a high school senior can cause unnecessary stress, as many students haven't been exposed to subjects like anthropology or sociology that they might discover and love in college Some large state universities require students to declare majors upfront and have limited flexibility to switch into competitive programs like business due to capacity constraints The name of the degree or prestige of the school does not automatically guarantee job placement; internships, research experiences, and networking connections are more influential in securing employment Most people end up working in fields unrelated to their undergraduate major, making the initial major choice less critical than previously believed Students should explore interests through summer programs and online courses before committing to a major For highly structured programs like engineering, nursing, and architecture, students do need to commit early, though some flexibility exists within engineering specializations Action items Students Use summer time to explore interests through programs and free online courses Research major flexibility policies at prospective schools before applying Consider applying to competitive majors initially, as it's easier to transfer out than transfer in Build connections through internships and research experiences while in college Focus on developing transferable skills like communication, writing, analytical reading, and problem-solving Students considering specific schools Ask about major switching policies if you have a specific field in mind Balance college list with schools that allow undecided majors and those requiring direct admission to programs Consider starting at a 2-year institution and transferring if targeting a competitive program at a 4-year university Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/40514290

622: How to Tell if you are "Doing Enough" 03/23/2026

622: How to Tell if you are "Doing Enough" Join us as Megan and Erin discussed how parents can determine if their children are working hard enough, particularly in the context of academic performance and test preparation. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it depends on the individual student and their goals, but there are some things parents can consider. We want to see our kids succeed and teach habits that will serve them well in the long run, rather than just focusing on immediate results. Guiding Students' Study Efforts Erin suggested having an open conversation with the student about their activities and concerns, while Megan advised checking grades as a way to gauge their progress in schoolwork. They also highlighted the importance of ensuring that students are completing all their assignments and not just spending time on screens. Effort vs. Anxiety in Student Performance Megan and Erin discussed the importance of distinguishing between students who genuinely lack effort and those who may be struggling due to factors like anxiety or perfectionism. Megan emphasized the need to assess whether students are putting honest effort into their work rather than focusing solely on grades or hours spent. They also highlighted the importance of having open conversations with students about their effort and understanding the reasons behind their performance, while being mindful not to inadvertently trigger anxiety in perfectionist students. Efficiency in Small, Consistent Efforts Megan and Erin discussed the inefficiency of spending long hours on tasks without actually accomplishing much, comparing it to people who waste time at the gym or during work hours. They agreed that focusing on consistent, small efforts over time is more effective than trying to complete tasks in large blocks. Megan suggested asking students if spending just 10-15 minutes daily on a subject could improve their grades, emphasizing the importance of making the most of small amounts of time. Strategies for Educational Goal Setting Megan and Erin discussed strategies for setting and achieving educational goals, emphasizing the importance of clear, agreed-upon objectives and student buy-in. Erin also suggested that students review and redo past work to better understand concepts and reduce future workload, while Megan criticized teachers for not providing adequate access to missed questions on assessments. Habits Over Grades Focus Megan and Erin discussed the importance of focusing on habits and behaviors rather than outcomes like grades or test scores. Megan emphasized that students have control over their habits but not their scores, advocating for setting goals based on behaviors rather than numbers. They agreed that building good habits, such as consistent study practices, is crucial for achieving desired outcomes. Quality Over Quantity in Learning Erin and Megan discussed the importance of focusing on quality over quantity in academic and personal development. Megan emphasized the need to identify and address gaps in learning rather than simply repeating information. They also touched on the concept of limited practice opportunities, such as SAT practice tests, and the importance of learning from mistakes to improve performance. They highlighted the need to teach students skills that will help them succeed in college and beyond, rather than just achieving high scores or grades. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/40513690

621: How to Compare College Offers & Make Your Final Decision 03/16/2026

620: How to Maximize College Scholarship Opportunities 03/09/2026

620: How to Maximize College Scholarship Opportunities Join Megan and Erin as they discuss strategies for maximizing college scholarship dollars while avoiding scams. Scholarship Search Tools Overview Megan and Erin discussed scholarship search tools, with Megan recommending several legitimate scholarship aggregators and advised listeners to be cautious of sites that charge fees for applications, as legitimate scholarship programs do not require payment to apply. Scholarship Application Strategies Megan and Erin discussed strategies for effectively applying for scholarships: creating separate email accounts for scholarship applications to manage the influx of information clicking through to the actual scholarship websites to verify current details, as requirements can change setting specific goals, such as applying for a set number of scholarships or spending a certain amount of time on application reusing essays for multiple applications, though Megan noted that some scholarships may require unique content. Scholarship Search and Application Strategies Megan and Erin agree that local scholarships, school counselors, and local organizations, places of worship, and employers are often overlooked sources worth exploring. Megan highlighted that many students stop applying for scholarships after their freshman year of college, despite the availability of scholarships for current students. Megan recommended checking with the financial aid office and department for specific major-related scholarships. Overall, be proactive in seeking scholarships, avoid scams, and take advantage of available opportunities. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/40512945

From Local Youth Orchestras to Top Conservatories - Strategies that Win the Audition with Darren Sacks 03/02/2026

618: Financial Literacy for College Students 02/23/2026

618: Financial Literacy for College Students In this episode, Megan and Erin dive into practical financial literacy topics students need to understand before and during college. Their discussion centers on managing money in an increasingly cashless world, avoiding common student loan mistakes, and building credit responsibly. Using real-life examples from their own families and experiences with students, they highlight how small financial decisions in college can have long-term consequences. Key Tips & Takeaways (with Examples) Know what student loan money can and cannot be used for Student loan funds can often cover living expenses such as rent, groceries, or transportation, and Erin notes that some students even use loan refunds to buy a car. However, these choices increase total debt, and student loans cannot be discharged in bankruptcy, making overspending especially risky. Understand 529 plan restrictions Erin explains that 529 money must be used for qualified education expenses and properly documented. Using a 529 account without matching receipts can cause reimbursement problems and potential tax issues. Be cautious with cashless payment apps Apps like Apple Pay, Venmo, and Cash App make spending feel frictionless, which can lead students to lose track of where their money is going. Erin points out that these platforms may not offer the same protections as credit cards if money is sent to the wrong person or a transaction is disputed. Local banks still serve a purpose Even in a cashless society, having a local bank can help students deposit cash, resolve account issues in person, or access short-term support. Erin mentions tools like Greenlight as a way parents can help students manage spending while learning financial independence. Debit cards vs. credit cards Debit cards pull directly from checking accounts, so overspending can immediately drain funds or trigger overdraft fees. Credit cards, when used carefully, offer more fraud protection and help establish a credit history. Build credit with small, intentional habits Erin recommends using a low-limit credit card for a recurring bill such as a streaming service or phone payment. Paying that balance in full each month builds credit without encouraging unnecessary spending. She shares a personal story about buying a house to illustrate how strong credit history impacts major life purchases. Set realistic expectations for spending money Megan shares that her son spent about $12 per week while on a campus food plan, showing how limited discretionary spending can still work. (This is not typical; her daughter definitely spent more!) They contrast this with examples of students overspending on food delivery services like DoorDash, emphasizing the need for clear budgeting conversations. This episode helps families understand how everyday financial choices—payment apps, loan usage, and credit cards—can shape a student’s financial future, and sets the stage for deeper conversations around responsible money management in college. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/39827485

617: How to Make College Fairs Work for You 02/16/2026

617: How to Make College Fairs Work for You Megan and Erin break down how students and families can turn college fairs into a genuinely useful part of the college search process. Drawing on both student and admissions-side perspectives, they emphasize that preparation, smart engagement, and follow-up are what separate an overwhelming fair from a productive one. The conversation covers how to approach admissions representatives, what kinds of questions actually matter, and how to use college fairs to start meaningful connections with schools. Key Tips for Maximizing College Fairs Prepare in advance Research participating colleges ahead of time and identify schools you want to prioritize. Register early, bring a fully charged phone or charger, and consider bringing a notebook or using your phone to take notes. Know basic facts so you can ask questions that go beyond what’s on the website. Be strategic at the fair Start with less crowded booths to build confidence, especially for younger students. Listen in on conversations at busy booths to learn common questions and useful answers. Talk to admissions representatives who are alumni or current students when possible for more authentic insights. Ask smart, specific questions Focus on topics that aren’t easily Googleable, such as campus culture, student support services, research or internship access, and typical class schedules. Ask questions that help you understand fit, including geography, climate, and day-to-day student life. Engage thoughtfully Take notes during or immediately after conversations to remember key details. Be respectful of representatives’ time while still showing genuine interest. Follow up after the fair Send a brief, personalized email to admissions representatives you connected with. Reference your conversation to reinforce interest and begin building a relationship. Overall, Megan and Erin emphasize that college fairs are most valuable when students approach them with intention. With the right preparation and follow-up, these events can provide clarity, confidence, and meaningful connections in the college search process. Here are some resources for finding fairs in your area: Colleges That Change Lives: https://ctcl.org/info-sessions/ NACAC: https://www.nacacnet.org/wp-content/uploads/NCF-Spring-2026-Schedule.pdf Music: https://www.musicadmissionsroundtable.org/collegefairs Thespians: https://www.aada.edu/news-events/college-fairs-thespian-festivals/ Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/39827410

616: 3 Ways Students Can Stand Out in Admissions 02/09/2026

616: 3 Ways Students Can Stand Out in Admissions In this episode, Megan and Erin break down effective college application strategies, using insights from a U.S. News article featuring Rice University’s Dean of Admissions. Rice says it wants to see Academic excellence and intellectual curiosity Community engagement and contributions Students who really want to be here Listen as Megan and Erin discuss How students can demonstrate intellectual curiosity Curiosity can be shown through self-directed learning, independent research, summer programs, or exploration outside formal coursework Letters of recommendation can reinforce curiosity and engagement with ideas and learning Community impact beyond traditional service Community contribution can take many forms, including collaboration, leadership, and using personal strengths to support others Rice values students who actively choose to engage with its collaborative and caring campus culture Evaluating college fit beyond prestige Students should research course offerings, campus culture, and day-to-day student life Campus visits help students determine whether a school aligns with their academic and social preferences Here's the U.S. News article featuring Rice’s Dean of Admissions:(. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/39827345

615: How NOT to Build Your College List 02/02/2026

615: How NOT to Build Your College List Building a college list can feel overwhelming—and it’s easy to get it wrong. In this episode of The College Prep Podcast, Megan and Erin break down the most common mistakes students and families make when creating a college list and explain how to avoid last-minute stress and disappointment. Rather than focusing on the “perfect” way to build a list, the hosts walk through how not to do it. They discuss why waiting until senior year is a recipe for panic, why rankings and prestige don’t tell you whether a school is actually a good fit, and how ignoring financial realities can derail the process later. Megan and Erin also unpack risky strategies like applying to only one or two schools, choosing colleges for superficial reasons or location alone, and basing an entire list on a prospective major—even though many students change majors once they’re enrolled. The conversation also tackles relationship-driven decisions, such as following friends or romantic partners to college, and why those choices so often lead to regret. Along the way, the hosts share real stories from their work with students and families to illustrate what can go wrong when the college list isn’t built thoughtfully. This episode is a must-listen for parents and students who want to start the college search earlier, make realistic and informed choices, and build a balanced list that reflects fit, finances, and flexibility—not panic or prestige. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/39827195

614: SAT / ACT 2026: Which Test to Take & When 01/26/2026

614: SAT / ACT 2026: Which Test to Take & When When should students take the SAT or ACT—and how many times is enough? In this episode of The College Prep Podcast, Megan and Erin break down the ideal testing timeline and clear up common misconceptions that cause unnecessary stress for families. They explain why junior year is the sweet spot for SAT and ACT testing, how many times students typically take these exams, and why finishing testing before senior year can make the college application process far less overwhelming. The conversation also covers strategic retakes, including why second attempts often lead to higher scores and how fee waivers and school-day testing can reduce costs. Listeners will learn when test prep actually makes sense (and why starting too early can backfire), how to use the PSAT effectively in 10th grade, and what really matters when choosing between the SAT and ACT. Megan also shares practical guidance on scheduling tests around math coursework, AP exams, extracurricular commitments, and student motivation. This episode provides a clear roadmap for parents and students who want to make smart, low-stress decisions about standardized testing—without falling for rumors or over-preparing too soon. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/39827110

613: What Are Colleges Really Looking For? 01/19/2026

613: What Are Colleges Really Looking For? In this episode of The College Prep Podcast, hosts Megan and Erin tackle a question that causes a great deal of stress and confusion for students and parents alike: What do colleges really want from applicants? Moving beyond myths about perfect GPAs, nonstop leadership titles, and extreme extracurriculars, they explain how colleges evaluate students across a wide range of institutions, from community colleges to highly selective universities. Megan and Erin break down the key factors colleges consider, including a student’s ability to handle academic rigor, how well an applicant aligns with a school’s institutional goals, and the ways students are likely to contribute to campus life. They discuss why transcripts matter more than just grades, how colleges think about fit, and why leadership and contribution look different for every student. The conversation also addresses less talked about realities of admissions, such as institutional priorities, rankings, financial considerations, yield, and the unavoidable role of chance in selective admissions. The episode concludes with practical guidance on how families should use this information, especially when building a balanced college list. Megan and Erin emphasize focusing on mutual fit rather than prestige, understanding that rejection is not a personal failure, and choosing schools where students can both succeed academically and belong meaningfully. Questions? If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for an upcomming show, we'd love to hear from you. You can email us at collegepreppodcast (at) gmail (dot) com More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/39792150

612: How to Maximize College Scholarship Opportunities 01/12/2026

612: How to Maximize College Scholarship Opportunities Paying for college can feel overwhelming, especially for families who do not qualify for need based financial aid. In this episode, Megan and Erin break down how merit based scholarships really work and how families can be more strategic about reducing the cost of college. What We Cover in This Episode • The difference between need based aid and merit based scholarships • Why income level does not disqualify students from scholarship opportunities • How families should think about affordability when building a college list • The importance of choosing schools that want your student academically or talent wise • Megan’s three step framework for maximizing scholarships – Identify your student’s strengths and academic profile – Find colleges where your student is a strong match – Stay flexible and compare offers at the end • Why being a “big fish in a smaller pond” can be an advantage academically and financially • How GPA, rigor, and test scores are evaluated for scholarships • Why weighted GPA matters far less than most families think • Where private schools often have more flexibility than public universities • How to use college fairs, school counselors, and college websites to identify scholarship friendly schools • Why most scholarships are about getting more for less, not going to college for free • Alternative cost saving paths including community college, transfer options, and tuition reciprocity programs • Why private outside scholarships are usually supplemental rather than the main source of aid Key Takeaway Most scholarship money comes directly from colleges trying to attract the right students. Families who are open minded, realistic about fit, and strategic about school selection often see the biggest financial wins. Have Questions About Scholarships? Send your questions to and let us know what topics you want us to cover next. More about the hosts Megan Dorsey is a parent, educator, and SAT/ACT prep expert. She graduated from Rice University and has over 25 years of experience helping students earn better scores and put together strong applications. Megan lives in Sugar Land, Texas and works with students in-person and on Zoom. You can find out more at Erin Tempest is the founder of Seattle Success Coaching where she and her team help families with a wide range of issues. Let Erin take the frustration out of learning with her academic support, exectuvie function coaching, and social/life skills packages. Her goal is to help parents get back to enjoying their kids. You can find out more at . /episode/index/show/collegepreppodcast/id/39703375

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