Tests and the Rest: College Admissions Industry Podcast
Welcome to THE college admissions industry podcast! Join Mike Bergin and Amy Seeley as they discuss the latest issues in testing, admissions, learning, and education with leading experts. Tests and the Rest is perfect for school counselors, educators, test prep professionals, college consultants, and just about anyone engaged in the college admissions process. You can subscribe to this podcast or stream it online via any podcast app, including iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and TuneIn Radio. YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of Chariot Learning and founder of TestBright. Amy Seeley is the president of Seeley Test Pros. Between the two of us, expect over 50 years of industry insight, expertise, insider news, and a bit of sarcasm.
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562. TESTING POLICIES AND EDUCATIONAL EQUITY REVISITED
04/16/2024
562. TESTING POLICIES AND EDUCATIONAL EQUITY REVISITED
Theories that standardized testing impeded equity in admissions decisions drove the pandemic-era test optional movement. With a few years of real-world data, we can now examine the accuracy of those theories. Amy and Mike invited student advocate Dr. Yoon Choi to revisit the review of testing policies and educational equity. What are five things you will learn in this episode? 1. What does the research say about testing and equity? 2. How do standardized tests help predict college readiness? 3. Why do many states and school districts in the U.S. use the SAT and ACT tests as part of their high school graduation requirements, accountability and evaluation systems? 4. What might surprise people about the research on testing? 5. Instead of casting blame on the tests themselves, what should those who want to improve education and equity focus on? MEET OUR GUEST Dr. Yoon S. Choi is CEO of , a national nonprofit that helps schools and teachers provide free SAT and ACT prep to students from low-income backgrounds. She has over a decade of leadership, management, and fundraising experience, primarily with organizations serving underrepresented youth. In 2020, she was named a Presidential Leadership Scholar by the program led by the presidential centers of George W. Bush, William J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson. She has published articles about testing and college access in Inside Higher Ed, The Hechinger Report, and EdSource. Yoon earned her doctorate in anthropology from the University of California at Irvine, as well as a master’s degree from New York University and a bachelor’s degree from Scripps College. Yoon previously appeared on this podcast in episode # 111 to discuss . Reach Yoon at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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561. POWER DYNAMICS IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
04/09/2024
561. POWER DYNAMICS IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Students and their families anxiously awaiting acceptance letters often feel helpless throughout the college admissions process. Little do they realize how quickly the advantage can shift in their favor. Amy and Mike invited educator Debra Landesberg to explore the concept of power dynamics in college admissions. What are five things you will learn in this episode? 1. Why are power dynamics worth considering in the admissions process? 2. Who holds the most power before applications are submitted? 3. Who holds the most power once applications are submitted? 4. Who holds the most power once acceptance letters are sent? 5. How can applicants remain balanced throughout the admissions process? MEET OUR GUEST Debra Landesberg has a M.S. in Continuing Education with an emphasis in Counseling/Psychology & Certificate in College Counseling. Debra has guided students through secondary education to college and beyond for over two decades. As a nationally known and highly respected figure in the college counseling community, she is considered a veteran expert in college admissions. She has served on national and regional boards and maintains membership in , , and . She has worked hands-on with multiple family members who have achieved acceptance to more than 200 colleges & universities across the United States & globally. Debra can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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560. BUSTING MYTHS ABOUT HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE
04/02/2024
560. BUSTING MYTHS ABOUT HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE
Some rumors about the costs of college are true. For example, some colleges this year will establish record highs in tuition and fees. But does that mean you can trust everything you’ve heard? Amy and Mike invited educational consultant Ann Garcia to bust some pervasive myths about how to pay for college. What are five myths that are busted in this episode? Myth #1: We're not poor and our student isn't an athlete, so we're stuck paying full price for college. Myth #2: I have a 4.6 GPA so I will get merit scholarships wherever I apply. Myth #3: My Student Aid Index/EFC is what it will cost me to go to college. Myth #4: Full pay students shouldn’t bother filing the FAFSA. Myth #5: We shouldn't save for college because we will get more financial aid if we don't. MEET OUR GUEST Ann Garcia has helped thousands of families save millions of dollars on college. She is the author of the critically-acclaimed "" and a sought-after media guest who's been quoted in the New York Times, U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, and Money magazine, to name a few. Ann recently launched an interactive online course to help parents (and their advisors) affordably build savings for college and apply for aid into their broader financial plan. As a parent whose twins just graduated debt-free from college, Ann's expertise expands beyond FAFSAs and 529s — she understands the emotional components of helping your child set and achieve goals for their future. Outside of financial planning, Ann is an avid runner, skier, and fan of middle school rock concerts. Ann can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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559. IEC PROFILE: Jennifer Stephan
03/29/2024
559. IEC PROFILE: Jennifer Stephan
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced independent educational consultant? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Dr. Jennifer Stephan. Jennifer has held a variety of roles across top colleges and universities, including professor, academic dean, and board of admissions member, in addition to serving as a private college counselor, alumni interviewer for Johns Hopkins University, and parent of three. She holds a BS degree in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University, as well as an MS and a PhD in electrical and computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. Jennifer is currently the Dean of Academic Advising and Undergraduate Studies for the School of Engineering at Tufts University. Prior to joining Tufts in 2016, she spent over two decades serving as a dean and a professor of Computer Science at Wellesley College, where she collaborated with colleagues at MIT, Olin College of Engineering, and Babson College to support students pursuing engineering. While at Wellesley, Jennifer served on the College’s Board of Admissions, reading and evaluating approximately one hundred transfer applications each year. Jennifer also is the founder of , a robust college counseling practice where she regularly employs insights from her experiences leading in higher education to help students develop their college lists and shape competitive, authentic applications. She is the author of the online course "." Jennifer specializes in STEM, computer science, engineering, undecided and transfer students She is a member of the National Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC) and a professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). Jennifer first appeared on our podcast in episode 541 to discuss .. Find Jennifer at . ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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558. IEC PROFILE: Hanna Stotland
03/28/2024
558. IEC PROFILE: Hanna Stotland
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced independent educational consultant? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Hanna Stotland, who flunked out of high school, got a G.E.D., and went on to graduate from Harvard College and Harvard Law School. Since 1999, she has been an independent admissions consultant specializing in educational crisis management, including Title IX, substance abuse and mental illness. Her recent professional presentations include conferences of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, the Higher Education Consultants Association, nine regional ACACs, and Families Advocating for Campus Equality. She has also been featured in the New York Times, Newsweek, CBS News, PBS, and WNYC. Find Hanna at or . ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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557. IEC PROFILE: Carolyn Mulligan
03/27/2024
557. IEC PROFILE: Carolyn Mulligan
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced independent educational consultant? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Carolyn P. Mulligan, who attended Bucknell University, where she graduated with a degree in English Literature. She has been proud to have been a counselor for many years at the Bucknell College Admissions Summer Workshop. She worked in public relations in NYC. She helped to open the Museum of Holography in Soho and worked for the Jamaica Tourist Board. Carolyn is also a professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), the New Jersey Association for College Admission Counseling (NJACAC), the Pennsylvania Association for College Admission Counseling (PACAC) and the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling (SACAC). She is a member of CH.A.D.D. (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder), and the LDA, the Learning Disability Association. She is also a proud member of the Character Collaborative. She has served on Admission Advisory Boards at several institutions including the University of Arizona, Drexel University and Roger Williams University. Insiders Network to College owner Carolyn Mulligan believes every student has a select few best fit colleges. She guides them towards those target colleges, creating a balanced and tailored list of prospective schools based on their unique strengths, abilities, and goals. She has specialized knowledge in learning disabilities and ADD/ADHD. She goes the extra mile to know each student and determine what kind of environment they will need to be successful in class and on campus. Her commitment to her business is reflected in her visits to over 400 campuses, continuing leadership and engagement in professional associations. She's built personal relationships with college admissions professionals. This gives her a unique insight into higher education. Carolyn has successfully seen hundreds of students through the search process over the last 18 years, with admission letters received from over 200 different colleges and universities. Carolyn is married and has three children, and three grandchildren, the joy of her life. When her children were younger, Carolyn advocated for them by spending 14 years coordinating the Special Education Parent Advisory Board for the Summit, NJ Board of Education. She was instrumental in bringing speakers like Jonathan Mooney, the late Mel Levene and Rick Lavoie to Summit.udent. She helps direct a team of 13 counselors to deliver the best, always, to their clients. Find Carolyn at or call at 908-277-3754. ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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556. IEC PROFILE: Alyson Campbell
03/26/2024
556. IEC PROFILE: Alyson Campbell
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced independent educational consultant? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Alyson Campbell, a member of Estrela Consulting, a boutique college planning firm in the greater Cleveland, Ohio area. She has worked in various aspects of higher education and consulting over the past decade including college athletics and college admission (Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, OH), application review (The Ohio State University), and now as an IEC with Estrela. Alyson likens her current experience as an IEC to her experience as a former college basketball athlete and coach - she loves seeing people win! Whether it is helping create a more balanced and accessible college list, helping a student refine and perfect their application materials, or easing the burdens and stresses for students and families, Alyson is ready to take on the challenge. Find Alyson at ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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555. IEC PROFILE:Tracy Sullivan
03/25/2024
555. IEC PROFILE:Tracy Sullivan
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced independent educational consultant? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Tracy Sullivan. Tracy, co-founder of , lives in Wrentham, MA with her husband Jim, who is a scientist (very helpful during COVID-19!). A graduate of Providence College, Tracy built a successful career in both sales and as a serial entrepreneur. A mom of two college graduates, Tracy continues to cheer her kids on as they pursue their own professional dreams. Her daughter Rachel is building a very successful career with a technology company in Boston, while her son Shane is a first year law student at Boston College Law School. For Tracy, college is personal. A firm believer that college literally changed her life and therefore could be life-changing for others, Tracy has worked for the last 8 years to assist friends and family through the admissions process. This struck a bigger vision that set her on her course to turning her passion into her profession as a certified admissions consultant. In her own words, Tracy says, “I love being part of the process. I'm a total college-nerd at heart, so visiting campuses and talking with students about where they're going to school or what their experiences have been like - it's just fun for me!” From Tracy’s perspective, a college education is an investment that will pay off for years to come, and it's important as young adults know the value they have given their future selves. The right fit can lead to a transformational experience. As a board and council member with The Providence College National Alumni Association Council (NAAC) for 8 years, Tracy considers her passion for higher-education a deeply ingrained and valuable piece of who she is today. In turn, a valuable way to give back to her alma mater. When she’s not in the office, you’ll find Tracy hiking, taking in a motivational thought leadership piece, or just watching a good old-fashioned Hallmark mystery movie. Find Tracy at . ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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554. HOW COLLEGES ADMIT BY MAJOR
03/19/2024
554. HOW COLLEGES ADMIT BY MAJOR
Applicants often look at the requirements and selectivity of a school as standard for every one of its courses of study, only to find that certain programs are WAY harder to get into than others. Amy and Mike invited educator Lisa Marker-Robbins to explain how colleges admit by major. What are five things you will learn in this episode? What does it mean to apply to a school by major? What factors need to be taken into account when considering certain majors? What can families do to know if a college admits by major? How does a college determine if your teen is a fit for a specific major? What advice do you have for a student who is unsure of their major? MEET OUR GUEST Lisa Marker Robbins is an entrepreneur in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her passion and purpose throughout her career has been to serve high school students and young adults on launching into their future. With that greater purpose, she has been a classroom teacher, 23 years ago started her company , a test prep, tutoring and independent college counseling organization that has helped thousands, and in 2021, started to guide students and young adults through her 5 part framework towards getting career clarity for what comes after graduation. Lisa first appeared on episode #119 to discuss how , in episode #227 to discuss and in episode #363 for a . Find Lisa at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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553. WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE GRE IN 2024 with educator Vince Kotchian
03/12/2024
553. WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE GRE IN 2024 with educator Vince Kotchian
The GRE General Test may be the world’s most widely used admissions test for graduate & professional school, which makes the assessment important to anyone considering graduate, business, or law school. Amy and Mike invited educator Vince Kotchian to share details on what to know about the GRE in 2024. What are five things you will learn in this episode? What does the GRE test and how has it changed over the years? What should students, tutors, and counselors know about the shorter GRE? What should test takers know about the computer-based format of the GRE? What kinds of programs accept the GRE? When should students prepare for and take the GRE? MEET OUR GUEST Vince Kotchian grew up in small-town Connecticut and completed the honors program at Boston College, graduating with a B.A. in English Literature. He moved to San Diego in 2007 and has been working full-time as a test-prep tutor ever since. Vince has scored a perfect 170 in verbal (twice) and a 167 in quant on the GRE. He is the founder of both and . Over the years, Vince has written some test-prep books and courses, but still enjoys GRE tutoring: “When a student texts me that she aced the test or got into her reach program, I still literally jump up and down and grin.” In his spare time, Vince likes traveling using miles and points (Japan is his favorite country to visit), reading (favorite authors include Haruki Murakami, Karl Ove Knausgaard, Nassim Nicholas Taleb, and Philip Pullman), watching The Great British Bake-Off (and sometimes actually baking things), hiking and camping, and rooting for the Red Sox and Patriots. Vince previously appeared on this podcast in episode # 197 to discuss and in episode # 209 in a . Find Vince at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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552. RESOURCES FOR THE DIGITAL SAT
03/05/2024
552. RESOURCES FOR THE DIGITAL SAT
A new test creates new opportunities and requires new study aids. Now that the SAT has gone digital, where should students and educators be looking for prep and practice material? Amy and Mike invited educator Laura Whitmore to explore the options for resources for the digital SAT. What are five things you will learn in this episode? 1. What materials do you recommend that your students use for the Digital SAT? 2. When and how should you use the official Blue Book practice tests? 3. What have your students tried already and what did they think? 4. Should you trust 3rd party scoring algorithms? 5. What are the best free materials to use? MEET OUR GUEST Laura Whitmore is the Founder and CEO of Strategic Test Prep, a leading SAT prep service. With extensive experience and expertise, Laura has been helping students achieve remarkable score improvements since 2007. As a former high school Valedictorian and a graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Laura's educational background sets a strong foundation for her coaching. Trained by a former College Board question writer, she possesses insider knowledge that enables her to outsmart the SAT and ACT tests. Over the years, Laura has refined these strategies and collaborated with her students to develop additional effective techniques. Laura currently scores a 1570 on the SAT (800 Math, 770 English). Laura's dedication and positive approach have resulted in exceptional outcomes. Her students have achieved grade improvements and remarkable score gains of up to 400 points on the SAT. From local to international levels, Laura's influence has expanded, working with students in various states across the United States, as well as countries such as Finland, Azerbaijan, India, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates and Chile. In addition to personalized coaching, Laura extends her expertise through her popular YouTube channel, , where she shares free test prep information with students worldwide. Recognizing the need for accessible resources, Laura has also developed and a Digital SAT prep app called , available on the App Store and Google Play. With degrees in psychology and a dual degree in mathematics and adolescent education, Laura's qualifications and dedication make her a trusted source for successful SAT preparation. Laura can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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551. HOW TO CHOOSE A COLLEGE COUNSELOR
02/27/2024
551. HOW TO CHOOSE A COLLEGE COUNSELOR
Considering how exponentially complex the college admissions process has become in the last decade, the decision to work with an independent college counselor makes sense. The bigger question is, “Which one?” Amy and Mike invited educational consultant Julie Kim to explore considerations on how to choose a college counselor. What are five things you will learn in this episode? 1. How do you know if you need a college counselor? 2. What are some of the most important traits to look for in an IEC? 3. What can a small or solo practice provide that big box solutions cannot? (accountability and consistency) 4. Is specialization desirable or even necessary in an IEC? 5. What do students and families need to bring to make college counseling successful? MEET OUR GUEST Immigrating from Korea in her youth, Julie Kim is a graduate of USC and Harvard (Ed.M). She founded Passion Prep after years of working in larger consulting firms, hoping to establish a new way of approaching college admissions. Julie offers a unique perspective as the first in her family to navigate the American college admissions process, and works with students of similar backgrounds to develop their own stand-out factor among thousands of other Ivy League applicants. Julie is the host of the and the . Julie previously appeared on this podcast in episode #196 to discuss and in episode #262 in an . Find Julie at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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550. STATE OF TEST OPTIONAL ADMISSIONS IN 2024
02/20/2024
550. STATE OF TEST OPTIONAL ADMISSIONS IN 2024
In the wake of the 2020 global pandemic, every U.S college and university announced test-optional or test-blind admissions, leading some pundits to predict that the influence of standardized test scores in admissions decisions was over. Based on recent announcements from a suite of public and private schools, nothing could be further from the truth. Amy and Mike invited educator Brian Eufinger to share the state of test-optional admissions in 2024. What are five things you will learn in this episode? As of early 2024, what is the state of test-optional admissions? What is the interplay between grade inflation and post-pandemic admissions policies? How do students know whether to submit scores or not? What does the term 'miswithholding' mean? Will more schools follow Dartmouth and MIT to test mandatory admissions? MEET OUR HOST Brian Eufinger graduated with honors from Washington University in St. Louis in May 2004. While an undergrad, he enjoyed working as a teaching assistant for Political Science 101, a resident advisor (RA) and as a volunteer paramedic with WashU’s Emergency Support Team. Brian is frequently invited to speak about test prep, college admissions, and scholarships at PTSA meetings at Atlanta-area high schools as well as Edison Prep’s free parent meetings. Brian serves on the Board of Directors of the National Test Prep Association. He is an active member of Washington University’s Young Alumni chapter in Atlanta, as well as the WashU Alumni Admissions Interviewer Program. Brian was our guest to discuss (#28), (#131), (#271), (#432), and (#500). He also facilitated our (#100). Find Brian at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ? ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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549. TEST PREP PROFILE: Jeffrey Dalton
02/16/2024
549. TEST PREP PROFILE: Jeffrey Dalton
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced professional in the test prep industry? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Jeffrey Dalton, who graduated from New York University in 2006 with a Bachelor's in Linguistics and Languages. After college, he taught English in Lahore, Pakistan for 4 years where he helped middle school students develop their literacy in English. After returning to the USA, Jeffrey worked for 2 years as a Math and Verbal tutor for SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT in New York and New Jersey for a leading international test prep company before making the shift to Dubai in 2015. A passionate educator, Jeffrey recently finished his Master's in Education in Instructional Design through Purdue University. He uses his knowledge as an educator to capably and efficiently guide his students to achieve their target scores on standardized tests. In fact, one of his students scored a perfect 1600 on the SAT. Find Jeffrey at . ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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548. TEST PREP PROFILE: Anna Moss
02/15/2024
548. TEST PREP PROFILE: Anna Moss
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced professional in the test prep industry? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Anna Moss, the founder of Mind the Test LLC, a tutoring company that empowers learners by teaching test prep and academics paired with lifelong research-based study skills. After earning a BA in Linguistics from the University of Chicago and a certification in Teaching English as a Foreign Language, she taught English and SAT/ACT prep all around the world for five years, spending summers as a cognitive psychology teaching assistant at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth. She followed her passion for the science of learning to the University of Cambridge, where her MPhil thesis research focused on improving educational equity via linguistic dialect-sensitivity on the SAT. When not teaching, Anna can be found reading about sociolinguistics, baking interesting desserts, and traveling. She lives in South Jersey with her husband, dog, and little four-month-old baby. Find Anna at .
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547. TEST PREP PROFILE: Ari Freuman
02/14/2024
547. TEST PREP PROFILE: Ari Freuman
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced professional in the test prep industry? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Ari Freuman, the Founder and Lead Tutor at Ivy Tutor. He began his tutoring career in 2013, serving students in New York City and Northern New Jersey. As a tutor, Ari recognized how difficult it was for parents to find effective SAT and ACT tutors like himself. To address this need, Ari assembled and trained a team of dynamic and inspiring tutors, creating what is today, Ivy Tutor. Ari is obsessed with delivering results. He adheres to an evidence-based ethos to develop and refine Ivy Tutor's strategies. His mission is to ensure that each student receives the most effective instruction possible from him and his team. Find Ari at . ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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546. TEST PREP PROFILE: Nikki Rooks
02/13/2024
546. TEST PREP PROFILE: Nikki Rooks
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced professional in the test prep industry? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Nikki Rooks, a lifelong learner with a love for helping students build confidence and achieve their academic goals! After changing majors a few times, she graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with undergraduate degrees in mathematics and computer science. Nikki worked in the IT field for 5 years before deciding to pursue her passion for education and becoming a full-time tutor. Nikki primarily works with middle and high school students in the Nashville area, offering individual support in K-12 math and ACT/SAT/ISEE prep. She takes joy in connecting mathematical concepts and demonstrating that math can make sense! In her free time, Nikki enjoys playing with her dog, cheering on the Nashville Predators, and trying new recipes. She is also an avid ballet dancer and is a company member of Ignite Dance. Find Nikki at or ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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545. TEST PREP PROFILE: Paul Oberman
02/12/2024
545. TEST PREP PROFILE: Paul Oberman
Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced professional in the test prep industry? MEET OUR GUEST Meet Paul Oberman, who has been involved with education since 1989 as a teacher, principal, and head of school. He has been at boarding schools and day schools, Catholic schools and Jewish schools and non-denominational schools, single gender schools and coed schools, progressive schools and conservative schools. He has coached all of the mainstream sports: springboard diving, Ultimate Frisbee, and water polo. In the summer of 2023, Paul started his own tutoring company, Oberman Tutoring, which helps students prepare for the ACT/SAT and supports students in math classes from middle school through high school. Paul also loves playing Ultimate Frisbee and performing stand-up comedy. Find Paul at . ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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544. FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF THE BETTER FAFSA
02/06/2024
544. FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF THE BETTER FAFSA
The most massive revision ever to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid burst into the new year like a brick through a window–everyone is talking about it, but nobody is happy. Amy and Mike invited financial aid advisor Ed Recker to review the latest news and timelines to date along with our first impressions of the better FAFSA. What are five things you will learn in this episode? How has the “soft launch” of the Better FAFSA® gone? What has been the feedback about the user experience on the FAFSA®? How have college professionals reacted to the FAFSA rollout? Will the FAFSA delays impact the traditional May 1st admission decision deadline? What recommended action steps and advice should those involved in the financial aid process take to heart? MEET OUR GUEST Ed Recker is a Director of High School Relationship Management with Sallie Mae, serving high schools, states, and professional organizations throughout the U.S. He joined Sallie Mae in 2019, and has over 20 years’ experience in the financial aid and enrollment industry. Prior to joining Sallie Mae, Ed was a Senior Consultant within the Enrollment Division of Ruffalo Noel Levitz, held the position of Vice President for Enrollment Management at the University of Findlay, and held various financial aid positions at the University of Findlay, Terra State Community College, and Bowling Green State University. Ed holds a M.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of Toledo, and resides in Ottawa, OH with his wife Kate and daughter Evelyn. Ed appeared on the podcast in episode #492 to discuss , which provides essential background information for this episode. Find Ed at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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543. COLLEGE READINESS ADVICE FROM A COLLEGE PROFESSOR
01/30/2024
543. COLLEGE READINESS ADVICE FROM A COLLEGE PROFESSOR
Too many students think that getting into a college implies a guarantee that they’ll be successfully getting out with a degree. Reality suggests otherwise, but teens can tilt the odds in their favor even while still in high school. Amy and Mike invited educator Michael Ermann to share college readiness advice from a college professor. What are five things you will learn in this episode? What does readiness mean in the context of college? What is one of the most important traits in a college-ready student? What is the link between SAT & ACT scores and college readiness? What can students do right now in high school to be more successful in college? What are three things a student can do for success once enrolled in college? MEET OUR GUEST Michael Ermann is the creator of , an SAT and ACT animated prep course with 6,000 enrolled; 10,000 per month visit his . He is a tenured full professor at Virginia Tech’s School of Architecture, where he has taught since 2001 and served as architecture program chairman from 2007 to 2011. His work has earned him the American Institute of Architects’ top regional design , an international design award, the top state research award (twice), and a top state for lifetime achievement, as well as the school’s top research award, and the school’s top teaching award (twice). Professor Ermann is a registered architect, the author of (Wiley, 2015, five stars on Amazon), and the creator of the animated video course , which prepares candidates for the exams that will make them a licensed architect and has enrolled more than 40,000. His YouTube channel has over seven million views and more than 35,000 subscribers. Professor Ermann has a math degree from Tulane University and a master’s in architecture from the University of Florida. His lifelong love of teaching math has never waned, having tutored students in the subject for more than 30 years. He believes everyone is a visual learner and has created in Olive Book a way to teach math, grammar, reading comprehension, and science in the graphic language of architecture. That course is instructive, comprehensive in preparing high school students for the tests, and engaging. To watch a short video demonstrating the Olive Book, click . Find Michael at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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542. SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT: Anti-Boring Learning Lab
01/26/2024
542. SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT: Anti-Boring Learning Lab
SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT: Anti-Boring Learning Lab The community of educators obsessed with sharing the science-backed study skills and executive function strategies every student needs to thrive with educator Gretchen Wegner. What are five things you will learn in this episode? What is the story behind the Anti-Boring Learning Lab? How does the Anti-Boring Learning Lab work? Who are the ideal clients for the Anti-Boring Learning Lab? What kinds of outcomes do clients experience? What should someone curious about the Anti-Boring Learning Lab know about it? ABOUT ANTI-BORING LEARNING LAB The Anti-Boring Learning Lab is a community of educators who obsess over sharing the science-backed study skills and executive function strategies every student needs to thrive. It’s a one-stop shop where you’ll learn the tools and the brain science students need to shift from unmotivated, bored, and struggling students into independent, motivated, self-starting learners. Most importantly, you’ll join a community of passionate educators to ask questions, share ideas, and rethink learning and schools together. As one newly minted Anti-Boring academic coach gushed, “I came for the curriculum but stayed for the community.” Not only will you receive your choice of micro-credentials that represent “the least you need to know” about study skills, note-taking, executive functions, how to be an academic coach and more, but you’ll also have access to community calls, book clubs, co-working sessions, and special interest chats. Whether you are (or want to become) an academic coach, executive function coach, ADHD coach, or life coach; whether you are a classroom teacher, special ed teacher, school counselor, or are in other quirky corners of education -- there is something for you and your students at the Anti-Boring Learning Lab. What we all have in common is a hunger to help our students succeed and a longing to connect with other educators as passionate as we are. Find out more at and download our free resources at . The Anti-Boring Learning Lab is founded by Gretchen Wegner. A master teacher and an academic life coach for over 15 years, she specializes in consolidating the science of learning into fun, digestible, actionable, executive function-friendly nuggets for both students and educators. Gretchen is also a tireless learner, consistently and transparently modeling the tools she teaches in her coaching, courses, and community. Download her free coaching resources at . ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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541. NAVIGATING THE COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ADMISSIONS
01/23/2024
541. NAVIGATING THE COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ADMISSIONS
The various flavors of computer science and engineering majors tend to be among the most popular and potentially lucrative for incoming students. No wonder they’ve also become some of the most selective programs to get into! Amy and Mike invited college dean Jennifer Stephan for guidance in navigating the competitive landscape of computer science and engineering admissions. What are five things you will learn in this episode? How competitive are Computer Science (CS) and engineering admissions? How can students position themselves with the strength to apply to schools as a CS and engineering major? What makes a CS and engineering program a good fit? What does a balanced college list look like for CS and engineering majors? What are CS and engineering-related majors for students to consider? MEET OUR GUEST Dr. Jennifer Stephan has held a variety of roles across top colleges and universities, including professor, academic dean, and board of admissions member, in addition to serving as a private college counselor, alumni interviewer for Johns Hopkins University, and parent of three. She holds a BS degree in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University, as well as an MS and a Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. Jennifer is currently the Dean of Academic Advising and Undergraduate Studies for the School of Engineering at Tufts University. Before joining Tufts in 2016, she spent over two decades serving as a dean and a professor of Computer Science at Wellesley College, where she collaborated with colleagues at MIT, Olin College of Engineering, and Babson College to support students pursuing engineering. While at Wellesley, Jennifer served on the College’s Board of Admissions, reading and evaluating approximately one hundred transfer applications each year. Jennifer also is the founder of , a robust college counseling practice where she regularly employs insights from her experiences leading in higher education to help students develop their college lists and shape competitive, authentic applications. Jennifer specializes in STEM, computer science, engineering, undecided and transfer students She is a member of the National Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC) and a professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). Take advantage of Jennifer’s powerful “” course and use the savings code: TESTS_AND_THE_REST for a 20% discount. This offer is available through Sunday 1/28/24 11:30 pm EST. Find Jennifer at or . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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540. HOW TENNIS AND TEST PREP ARE SIMILAR
01/16/2024
540. HOW TENNIS AND TEST PREP ARE SIMILAR
Billie Jean King described tennis as a perfect combination of violent action taking place in an atmosphere of total tranquility. In a lot of ways, taking a high-stakes exam feels the same way. Amy and Mike invited educator Scott Greenspan to explore how tennis and test prep are similar. What are five things you will learn in this episode? 1. What makes tennis such a perfect analogy for testing? 2. What can aspiring test takers learn from tennis? 3. In what ways are tennis players and test takers alike? 4. What is the role of practice in academic and athletic success? 5. What is the role of coaching in academic and athletic success? MEET OUR GUEST Scott Greenspan is the founder/president of in Glenview IL, which is located in the north suburbs of Chicago. For well over 25 years, Scott has helped over 4000 students reach their goals on the ACT and SAT. He especially enjoys working with his students on motivation, mindfulness, and mastery of the content. He and his staff also do academic tutoring and college admissions coaching. Scott is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis with a BA in math, and he earned an MA in teaching from North Park University. His hobbies include tennis, skiing, and hiking. Scott previously appeared on this podcast in episode 191 for a . Scott can be reached at or . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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539. HOW CAN TUTORS USE AI?
01/09/2024
539. HOW CAN TUTORS USE AI?
Every innovation in technology eventually impacts education, yet artificial intelligence already seems poised to transform the way people learn and teach at every level. Amy and Mike invited technology expert Amit Jain to explore how tutors can use AI. What are five things you will learn in this episode? How have Large Language Models (LLMs) solved the decades-old problem of Natural Language Processing (NLP)? How is AI helping curate and personalize content for individual students? How is AI enhancing comprehension and engagement, and bridging cultural and linguistic gaps for students? What ethical considerations should be taken into account when using AI in education? How can tutors and test prep professionals get started with AI ? MEET OUR GUEST Amit Jain is the CEO and Co-founder of , a learning platform company on a mission to boost student outcomes in education. Amit's journey began with a deep passion for computer science, leading him to first earn an engineering degree with a gold medal and then impart knowledge in the same field as a lecturer at an engineering college in India. His career then progressed through various leadership roles in several global software and technology companies. The Covid pandemic reignited Amit's interest in education, inspiring him and his friends to develop MentoMind. This AI-powered learning platform, originally launched for college preparation in India, has successfully garnered an active user base of over 30,000 students. Expanding its reach, Amit recently introduced MentoMind in the United States, targeting college-bound students preparing for the digital SAT. Amit can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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538. ALL ABOUT DIGITAL SAT READING & WRITING
01/02/2024
538. ALL ABOUT DIGITAL SAT READING & WRITING
The digital SAT may look like the future of standardized admissions tests, but the exam continues a long tradition of verbal priorities. The more things change, the more they stay the same! Amy and Mike invited educator Lori Goldstein to talk all about digital SAT Reading & Writing. What are five things you will learn in this episode? How is the SAT Reading & Writing section structured? How important are vocabulary skills on the test? What makes SAT Reading questions so difficult? What makes SAT Writing questions so difficult? What can students do to excel in SAT Reading & Writing? MEET OUR GUEST Lori Goldstein grew up in NY and NJ and attended the University of Pennsylvania, earning a degree in Communications. She worked in television for a while (behind the scenes) and then took a job in Florida. Eventually, Lori started selling sailboats in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, which provided her the opportunity to go sailing every chance she had. After raising her family, Lori decided to become a math teacher. She enrolled to get the credits needed to re-learn all the high school math that she had forgotten. This was actually fun for her, allowing her inner nerd to come out. She started tutoring kids in math. Eventually, one parent asked if she could help their daughter with the SAT. “Why not?” she said. The rest is history. Lori previously appeared on this podcast in episode 235 for a . Lori can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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537. WHAT DO TRULY TEST OPTIONAL COLLEGES FOCUS ON?
12/26/2023
537. WHAT DO TRULY TEST OPTIONAL COLLEGES FOCUS ON?
Admissions factors in college applications often boil down to grades plus tests and then the rest. What happens when the influence of standardized scores is minimized or entirely excluded? Amy and Mike asked U of R Vice Provost and Dean of Enrollment Management Robert Alexander and educational consultant Aly Beaumont the million-dollar question: what do truly test-optional colleges focus on? What are five things you will learn in this episode? How do you know if a school is truly test-optional? What are the components of the application review process? What aspects of high school grades are most important? How can applicants communicate character through their applications? What is the benefit of submitting test scores to a truly test-optional school? MEET OUR GUESTS Dr. Robert J. Alexander serves as the vice provost and university dean of enrollment at the University of Rochester, with responsibility for more than 90 staff members across the offices of admissions, financial aid, and enrollment management, an operating budget of $9.4 million, and distribution of over $330 million in student aid. As a first-generation college graduate, his twenty-year professional career is animated by a passion for higher education’s transformational impact on a diverse array of students. Alexander received his doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania, conducting dissertation research focused on higher education leadership and governance. He previously graduated from Tulane University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Paul Tulane College and an M.B.A. in Marketing and Management from Tulane’s A.B. Freeman School of Business and served on the Tulane Alumni Association Board of Directors. Originally from New York, Alexander serves as class fund chairman for his alma mater, Regis High School. Alexander is active with the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), the American Association of College Registrars and Admission Officers (AACRAO), the College Board, the Association of Governing Boards (AGB), and the American Marketing Association (AMA), speaking at national meetings regarding enrollment management and marketing strategies. His work has been published in national publications, including the Association of Governing Board's Trusteeship Magazine. Before the University of Rochester, Alexander held senior administrative and teaching roles at various institutions across the United States. As vice president for enrollment and communications at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, his work increased undergraduate net revenue per student, doubled the representation of domestic students of color and the proportion of international students. As an academic leader and instructor of management, Alexander helped develop Millsaps’ nonprofit management program, and taught courses combining Liberal Arts and Business concepts to provide skills for graduates to positively impact their communities. While serving as the associate provost for enrollment at University of the Pacific in northern California, Dr. Alexander coordinated strategic plans that dramatically increased prospective student interest, increased university-wide enrollment to record levels, while simultaneously improving academic quality and financial metrics. As assistant vice president for enrollment management at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, Alexander’s efforts during and following Hurricane Katrina successfully restored enrollment and improved the institution’s reputation and impact on its surrounding community. Find Robert at [email protected] Aly Beaumont is the founder of , a family focused, affordable, one-on-one college guidance consultancy. Aly is deeply committed to making the college admissions process less stressful, and her success with this objective can be measured by both the growing number of referrals she receives as well as the repeat business of family siblings. Aly is also a founder and advisor to , a website connecting high school students with college students and recent graduates so that first-hand information and experiences can be shared. Aly is a graduate of Tufts University where she majored in History with a concentration in Modern Women and African American History, and was captain of the Equestrian Team. She lives in Wilton, CT with her husband Perry, their two dogs Buddy and Buzz and their three sons. Two of their sons are currently in college at The University of St. Andrews in Scotland and Keyon College in Ohio, and one graduated from Santa Clara University. Aly is an Associate member of IECA and she has her certificate as an Independent Educational Consultant from the University of California Irvine. Aly previously appeared on this podcast in episode 406 to discuss , in episode 341 to discuss , in episode 212 to discuss and was the subject of an . Find Aly at https://www.admissionsvillage.com. LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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536. ALL ABOUT THE AMERICAN MATH COMPETITION
12/05/2023
536. ALL ABOUT THE AMERICAN MATH COMPETITION
Mathematics is one of the fundamental tools for understanding the universe, nothing less than the science and study of quality, structure, space, and change. That doesn’t mean, though, that we can’t make a contest of it, especially if doing so can uncover a generation’s brightest math minds. Amy and Mike invited Vida John to explain all about the American Math Competition. What are five things you will learn in this episode? 1. What is the American Math Competition, and who runs it? 2. How is the AMC scored and what is a good score? 3. Have there been test security issues with the AMC? 4. Who should take the AMC and why? 5. How can students prepare for the AMC? MEET OUR GUEST Vida John is a math coach and tutor, specializing in students who are preparing for math contests and studying curriculum published by Art of Problem Solving. Vida grew up in Iowa where she was a high school mathlete before studying at the Stanford School of Engineering and UCSF School of Medicine. After working in Silicon Valley for a medical start-up, she homeschooled her 2 daughters with the intent of providing an excellent education, especially in math and science. She coached homeschooled math teams for 10 years, and with both daughters now attending Stanford, she continues to help students prepare for MathCounts, AMC, and other contests while building their problem-solving skills. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and runs workshops on using math contests to prepare for college-level work. Vida previously appeared on this podcast in episode 255 to discuss . Find Vida at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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535. MAKING TIME VISIBLE
11/28/2023
535. MAKING TIME VISIBLE
Bill Watterson observed that there is not enough time to do all the nothing we want to do. With the right scheduling habits, though, maybe there can be. Amy and Mike invited educator Rebecca Rauscher to share best practices for making time visible. What are five things you will learn in this episode? What does it really mean (concretely) to “Make Time Visible”? Why is this such a big issue for students more so today than ever before? What are some strategies and ideas for making time visible? Is there an ideal day or time to create calendars and checklists? Are there instances where MTV is unhelpful or detrimental? MEET OUR GUEST With over 30 years of experience as an educator and the founder of , Rebecca Rauscher, MS Ed. understands the importance of developing and fostering both executive function skills and study techniques with clients of all ages and abilities. As an educator in the public schools, she shared her love of learning with her students, colleagues, and the families with whom she worked. She brings a genuine passion for learning and enthusiasm to her work with students from high school through grad school, as well as with individuals who need to build or strengthen their executive function skills. Rebecca has consistently fostered and built relationships with not only her students, but their parents and caregivers as well. Her unique, creative approach to learning truly helps her clients with academic success and the development of skills necessary for learning and life. Rebecca is passionate about helping others gain the techniques and strategies that allow her clients to fulfill their unique ambitions, goals, and dreams—to foster their own sense of purpose and creativity with greater success and outcomes. Rebecca earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester with a double major in Spanish and Political Science. She went on to obtain her master’s degree in education from SUNY Brockport with an extension in bilingual education. In addition to her work as an educational consultant, Rebecca currently teaches as an adjunct instructor at the Rochester Institute of Technology’s Academic Success Center in Rochester, New York. Rebecca can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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534. CHOOSING BETWEEN THE DIGITAL SAT AND THE ACT
11/21/2023
534. CHOOSING BETWEEN THE DIGITAL SAT AND THE ACT
Now that college admissions is moving back into a test-preferred environment, students don’t have to struggle with the choice of whether or not to take a college entrance exam but rather which one. Amy and Mike invited educator Susan Powers to weigh the important factors in choosing between the digital SAT and the ACT. What are five things you will learn in this episode? Why should students give thought to which test they want to take? How are the ACT and digital SAT different? How does the ACT Science section play into a decision about which test to take? Should you prepare for both the ACT and digital SAT? Are there any general rules for what types of students are better suited to either test? MEET OUR GUEST Susan Powers is the founder and CEO of , a tutoring company based in the Houston area that improves students’ scores, supports students’ academic success, and helps families navigate the college admissions testing process with much less stress. Susan started teaching SAT and GMAT classes for Kaplan in 1994 as a hobby while an executive for a large oil and gas equipment company, doing strategy and acquisitions. The arrival of children put hobbies on hiatus, and she was able to return to tutoring in 2011, founding Woodlands Test Prep. The company has grown from a solopreneur to a larger company with multiple tutors. Susan delights in all aspects of the business from tutoring to curriculum and resource development to process improvement to hiring those few rare gems and teaching them how to help students too! Susan was a National Merit Scholar and has a B.A. in French and a B.B.A. in Finance from Southern Methodist University and an M.B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on entrepreneurship. She lives in the country with her partner, Joe, and three dogs, a cat, and a parrot named Monkey. Her two children now live adventurous lives in the mountainous West. She loves to travel around the world, play day-long board games, sing, write poetry, garden, and read a couple of books at a time. Susan is a member of the Board of Directors of the National Test Prep Association. She first appeared on the podcast in episode 231 in a . Susan can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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533. HOW IMPORTANT IS GPA IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS?
11/14/2023
533. HOW IMPORTANT IS GPA IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS?
We all know that the first and most influential item in a college application is the academic record, right? But, at a time when everything else in the calculations of selective colleges seems uncertain, can we be so sure the role of grades hasn’t changed as well? Amy and Mike invited educational consultant Susie Watts to explore just how important GPA is in college admissions. What are five things you will learn in this episode? Will a low high school GPA keep you out of college? Will a high GPA guarantee you get into a selective college? How does a rising or falling GPA factor into a college admissions decision? How do institutional priorities take precedence over criteria like a GPA? How does test-optional matter if you have a high GPA? MEET OUR GUEST Susie Watts is the founder of College Direction. She has 30 years experience in college admission counseling. Her goal is to make the college selection, application and admission process as stress-free for families as possible. She helps students stay organized, assist in researching potential colleges, support them with their college applications and essays and show them ways to become a successful college applicant. Together, they can find colleges that match a student’s academic, personal and financial needs. Susie is the recent author of . Susie can be reached at . LINKS RELATED EPISODES ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the . ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of and founder of . Amy Seeley is the president of . If you’re interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, feel free to .
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