Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers

In this episode, we’re joined by two special guests: Matt Rosenbaum, a former UChicago Admissions Officer, and Maya Gobert, Director of the Leadership and Innovation Lab (LIL). Matt shares expert insights on nurturing curiosity in young students, how parents can support their educational journey, and common mistakes parents make during their child’s formative years. Maya explains how the Leadership & Entrepreneurship Exploration (LEE) program builds essential skills like confidence, communication, and problem-solving in just eight weeks. We also discuss how the LIL LEE program introduces entrepreneurship with valuable 1-on-1 support and offers tips on balancing focused learning with open-minded exploration during the crucial middle school years. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Join our private Facebook Group to ask our Former Admissions Officers any questions! Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Interested in what a Harvard Admissions Officer looks for in applicants? In today’s episode, we dive deep into the intricacies of the Harvard College admissions process with Bruno, a Former Admissions Officer at Harvard College. Bruno shares insider details on what Harvard truly values in both first-year and transfer applicants, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the selection process. We also explore the significant changes in admissions criteria following the recent lawsuit and discuss actionable strategies for prospective students to stand out in their applications. If you’re aiming to gain admission to Harvard, this episode is packed with expert advice to help you navigate the competitive world of college admissions. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Join our private Facebook Group to ask our Former Admissions Officers any questions! Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Curious how our students enjoy a 99% acceptance rate? On today’s episode, Joel Butterly, Co-Founder and CEO of InGenius Prep dives into the unique strategies and programs that set InGenius Prep apart. We also explore real-life examples and listener questions, offering continued insight into how students can craft standout college applications and achieve their college dreams. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Join our private Facebook Group to ask our Former Admissions Officers any questions! Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Are you an aspiring computer science major looking to stand out? On today’s episode, Brian Skinner, founder of Breakout Mentors, walks us through how to best prepare for USACO, one of the most prestigious coding competitions, and how to leverage strong coding skills to craft unique signature projects for college applications. Whether you're a novice coder or a seasoned competitor, this episode will help you gain that competitive edge in the world of coding competitions and college applications. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Learn more about Breakout Mentors. Join our private Facebook Group to ask our Former Admissions Officers any questions! Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Waitlisted from your dream school? Struggling with no acceptance offers? Or are you split between multiple acceptances? On today’s episode, Krista Pickett, a Former Admissions Officer from Williams, discusses first some strategies for students to effectively navigate being waitlisted. From understanding the significance of remaining active on the waitlist to crafting compelling letters of continued interest, Krista offers advice for students vying for coveted spots at their dream schools. Krista then dives into possible options for students who find themselves in a tough spot with no viable acceptances. Lastly, Krista offers advice for students with multiple acceptance, emphasizing the significance of factors such as academic offerings, campus culture and personal fulfillment. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Check out our InGenius Prep Regular Decision Results! Join our private Facebook Group to ask our Former Admissions Officers any questions! Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Thinking about embellishing your extracurriculars? Wondering if your music teacher is the best person to ask for a letter of recommendation? Running behind in the college application process? On today’s episode, our Former Admissions Officers answer these questions and more in this special Q&A segment. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

With an admit rate of 14.57%, how did we help our student, Maggie, get accepted into Columbia University, her top-choice school? On today’s episode, Kat Jennings, a Former Admissions Officer from NYU, gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how Maggie beat the odds during the Early Decision round this year. From creating a unique Application Persona to strategically enhancing her extracurriculars to fit her physics major, Kat shares valuable tips on how you can also secure that coveted acceptance letter. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Do non-STEM students need research experience in their college applications? On today’s episode, Christopher Brown, our Director of Academic Mentorship, shares insider tips on how to create impactful research projects. From discussing how to present challenges to unraveling the criteria Admissions Officers seek in research projects, this episode will be your ultimate roadmap to crafting a standout research project that sets you apart from your competition in your college application. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Join our private Facebook Group to ask our Former Admissions Officers any questions! Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

How do you capture an Admissions Officer’s attention through your college essays? On today’s episode, Nivanthi Karunaratne, a Graduate Coach at InGenius Prep, shares her personal journey of self-discovery through music and how it has influenced her approach in helping students find their voice in their college essays. From asking the right questions to discussing the power of introspection in the essay-writing process, Nivanthi shares valuable tips on how to write stellar college application essays. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Join our private Facebook Group to ask our Former Admissions Officers any questions! Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

How do you convince colleges that you are exactly what they are looking for? On today’s episode, Drew Hazen, a Former Admissions Officer from Northwestern, unveils effective strategies to stand out among a highly competitive pool of accomplished peers. From decoding the holistic review process to providing tips on how to craft a standout application, Drew covers the importance of a clear narrative, the challenge of showcasing personality in applications, and tips for tackling school-specific essay questions. Whether you're a high school student or a supportive parent, this episode will be a comprehensive guide to making a memorable impression in the college admissions journey. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

How do students stand out in popular STEM clubs, like robotics? On today’s episode, Stacy Wells Shea, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Rochester, reveals what key qualities set apart standout STEM-related extracurricular activities. From engaging in unique, atypical projects to learning how to make a lasting impact within clubs, Stacy shares valuable insights on how STEM students can distinguish themselves in the competitive college admissions process. Whether you are a prospective STEM student or a parent guiding your child through the admissions process, this episode will be a crucial guide on how to elevate STEM activities to gain a competitive edge. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Wondering when to reach out to coaches or how to stand out in the recruitment process as a fencer? On today's episode, Kevin Dupont, a Former Admissions Officer from Cornell, sheds light on the nuances of the fencing recruitment process and addresses key questions from students - such as when to reach out to coaches, and how to craft compelling interest letters and fencing resumes. Whether you're a seasoned high school fencer or just starting, this episode will set you on the right path to success in both academics and athletics. LEARN MORE about the exciting partnership with USA Fencing. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Are you applying to colleges this year? Or is your New Year's Resolution to get ahead with your college applications? If so, you're in the right place! On today's episode, our Former Admissions Officers shared their best advice for students gearing up for the college application process in the new year. From sharing the key to crafting unique applications to discussing how to navigate the challenges of feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork and college applications, this episode will help you approach the college admission journey with confidence and success. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Want to learn our secrets to how we helped 11 students get admitted to MIT? On today’s episode, Krista Pickett, a Former Admissions Officer from Williams, reveals what it takes to create an outstanding profile that captivates admission committees. From breaking down the intricacies of the application process to offering actionable tips on balancing academic achievements, extracurricular involvements, and personal narratives, Krista shares valuable insights into navigating the complex terrain of admissions, understanding what distinguishes a compelling application, and how to present a multifaceted yet cohesive identity to top-tier colleges. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

In college admissions, excellence alone doesn't guarantee acceptance. On today's episode, Marianna Irizarry, a Former Admissions Officer from Stanford, sheds light on the multifaceted qualities that make standout applicants. Drawing from a wealth of experience in law, education, and admissions, Marianna shares her insights on how to craft a strategic approach and cultivate diverse, authentic interests. From creating impactful volunteer work to leveraging a student's unique strengths, this episode will provide valuable insights on how to gain a competitive edge in college admissions. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

The new Digital SAT presents hurdles and opportunities for students aiming for top scores. On today’s episode, Jake Adams, Director of Ingenious Test Prep, unveils the strategies essential for scoring in the top percentile. Whether it's understanding the new modular adaptive testing format or unlocking the secrets behind maximizing performance, this episode equips students with the tools needed to ace the Digital SAT. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Should you use ChatGPT to write your personal statements? On today's episode, Zak Harris, a Former Admissions Officer from Johns Hopkins, shares his strategies on how to stand out in college essays without the use of AI. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

What does it mean to be a computer science major in college? On today's episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Elena Li, who went from being a computer science major at Cornell to landing a dream job as a software engineer at Amazon. From preparing for computer science internships to learning important soft skills to land coveted job positions, Elena reveals insider knowledge on what it takes to thrive as a successful computer science major. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Struggling with how to create passion projects that stand out in college applications? On today’s episode, Maya Gobert, Director of Student Innovation at InGenius Prep, reveals strategies on how to turn your interests into impactful projects that reflect your unique profiles, as well as some common misconceptions and successful project examples. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

What is a passion project and why are they so important in college applications? On today's episode, Evan Cudworth, a Former Admissions Officer from UChicago, shares his tips on how to create a passion project that stands out from the competition. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email noel.kim@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.