Today, we're diving into a topic that's close to my heart – MBA admissions. As former Director of MBA Admissions at Wharton, I could talk about this all day. In this episode, we'll explore the essays required by three top MBA programs: Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton. These essays are critical in shaping your application and demonstrating your fit for your chosen school. Let's get started. We now offer essay review services. Get more information at http://thomascaleel.com/services Key Points: Why...
Sep 05, 2023•33 min•Season 2Ep. 17
Question of the Week: Should I take the GRE or GMAT if I want to apply to an MBA program? Want to submit your own question of the week? Send us a message @admittedlypodcast for a chance to have your question featured. There are many different aspects to consider when choosing which standardized test to take if you want to apply to a MBA program. Listen to see which one is right for you. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Whart...
Sep 04, 2023•6 min•Season 2Ep. 16
In today's episode, we have an incredible guest, Daniel Lim, also known as Limmy ( @limmytalks ). He's a highly innovative and entrepreneurial rising senior from Duke University. Limmy is widely followed across various social media platforms for his unique insights, especially into college applications and admissions. We'll be discussing college admissions, AI technology, future ventures, and more. Key Points: Diverse Interests: Limmy is a rising senior at Duke University with a passion for nume...
Aug 29, 2023•32 min•Season 2Ep. 15
Question of the Week: Should I talk about my family in my Common App essay? Want to submit your own question? Send us a DM on social media @admittedlypodcast In this episode, Thomas Caleel delves into a compelling topic that ignited discussions on social media – the role of family narratives in Common Application essays. While Thomas generally advises against extensive discussion of family in essays, he recognizes the nuances that surround this choice. He acknowledges scenarios where family invo...
Aug 24, 2023•5 min•Season 2Ep. 14
In this episode, we'll delve into why essays are crucial, the use of AI in college applications, utilizing every word available in the Common Application and how to find your unique voice, and making your application truly resonate with your top schools. Want to have your essay reviewed by our expert college admissions team? Now offering essay review services. You can learn more at http://thomascaleel.com/services Key Points: Why Essays Matter: Essays play a pivotal role in the college applicati...
Aug 22, 2023•23 min•Season 2Ep. 13
Question of the Week: Can I include social media as one of my activities in the common application, and will admissions officers look at my social media before deciding if I am accepted or not? This is a two part question today, and one that we have been getting alot on our own social media. As someone who recently started a TikTok myself, I know how much work and effort goes into creating high quality content. If you are an influencer, have a large following, or participate in brand partnership...
Aug 21, 2023•5 min•Season 2Ep. 12
In this episode, we're joined by a special guest, Ryan Long, the CEO and Founder of Learn Untethered, a private academic tutoring business. Ryan's journey from a teacher in Santa Barbara to the owner of Learn Untethered is highlighted. His background as a wilderness education facilitator and passion for outdoor activities adds a unique flavor to his approach. Learn Untethered offers individualized education support, both online and at home, catering to students of all ages. Want to be a guest on...
Aug 15, 2023•24 min•Season 2Ep. 11
Question of the Week: "Do I need a separate passion project to help with college admissions?" Have a question you want answered? Send us an email at hello@thomascaleel.com or DM us on Instagram @admittedlypodcast Passion projects, as commonly presented, often involve activities outside of your daily life that showcase your dedication and enthusiasm. While initiatives like volunteer work and charitable endeavors are commendable, the way passion projects are often framed can sometimes appear disin...
Aug 10, 2023•5 min•Season 2Ep. 10
Navigating the 2023 Common App and Examples of Unique Common App Essays Just five days ago, the new Common App dropped for eager applicants, and in this episode, we'll explore key insights and strategies to help you make the most of this crucial process, with a focus on crafting your unique Common App essay. So, if you're a high school senior or a parent looking to support your child, buckle up for an enlightening discussion. Key Points: Getting Started with the New Common App: The August 1 open...
Aug 08, 2023•23 min•Season 2Ep. 9
Question of the week: Looking for a good parenting book recommendation? Raising teenagers is not easy, and it can leave us wondering what the "right way" to parent is if we want to raise resilient, independent young adults. Have a question you'd like answered? Reach out to us on social media @admittedlypodcast or send us an email at hello@thomascaleel.com Our host Thomas Caleel gives his top book recommendation for any parent looking to help their child find success in the college application pr...
Aug 07, 2023•4 min•Season 2Ep. 7
Fostering Intellectual Curiosity: A Conversation with Educator, Matt Gainsley In this episode, your host, Thomas Caleel, sits down with his long-time friend and esteemed educator, Matt Gainsley. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Matt has been inspiring and stimulating intellectual curiosity in students for more than two decades. Join us as we explore the importance of intellectual curiosity, the evolving dynamics in education, and the impact of parental involvement, and why a college de...
Aug 01, 2023•37 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode, host Thomas Caleel discusses the pros and cons of attending college. In response to many messages and comments from listeners saying "college is a waste of time" we encourage you to sit back and think about your own goals and abilities and make an educated decision on what is best for you. And if college is the answer, well, you are in the right place. Have your own question you'd like answered? Email us at hello@thomascaleel.com or send us a DM on instagram @ admittedlypodcast ...
Jul 27, 2023•4 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode, our host Thomas Caleel is diving into some common questions about college admissions and applications this time of year. Want to submit a question? Send us a DM on Instagram @admittedlypodcast or email us at hello@thomascaleel.com Question 1: What SAT or ACT score do I need? Standardized testing requirements have evolved, especially after COVID. Many schools now consider a holistic approach to admissions, seeking to increase diversity and offer opportunities for students to pres...
Jul 25, 2023•22 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this week's episode, we tackle an important question from a student in Colorado who is concerned about their final semester grades during their junior year. The student worries that these grades may negatively impact their chances of getting into their dream school. Thomas addresses this issue with valuable insights and advice for both current and rising juniors. Have a question? DM us on social media @admittedlypodcast or email hello@thomascaleel.com for a chance to have it answered on the s...
Jul 20, 2023•6 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In this engaging episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Sam Hassell, a fellow admissions professional with a fascinating background in research and academia. Throughout the conversation, Sam and Thomas share valuable insights and strategies for students navigating the college admissions process. Want to be an expert guest on an Admittedly Podcast episode? Apply HERE Key Points Crafting a focused and compelling narrative is essential in the college admissions process. Parallels can be draw...
Jul 18, 2023•43 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode, host Thomas Caleel addresses an important listener question about taking a gap year. Have a question? Send us an email at hello@thomascaleel.com or DM us on Instagram @admittedlypodcast with your question you'd like answered on the podcast. Today's question, coming from a student in New York, asks how to determine if a gap year is the right choice and if it will impact the admissions process . Key Points Gap year: Typically more common in UK countries, less common in the US Key ...
Jul 13, 2023•6 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Season 2 Premiere: This episode highlights the upcoming release of the Common App for university applications. Thomas urges students to pause before writing supplemental essays, as they might change due to the recent affirmative action ruling and stresses the significance of personalizing applications to align with a school's offerings and culture. Additionally, this episode provides valuable advice for students, emphasizing the importance of fully engaging in summer activities and making the mo...
Jul 11, 2023•21 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Episode Overview: In this special "Best of" episode of the Admittedly Podcast, host Natasha presents some of the most memorable clips from Season One. Join Thomas, an expert in college admissions, as he shares valuable insights on extracurricular activities and summer planning. Thomas offers guidance on standing out, the value of work experience, sports considerations, the importance of depth in activities, and making the most of summer vacations. JOIN our mailing list for important updates and ...
Jun 19, 2023•18 min•Season 1Ep. 23
In this special "Best of" episode, former MBA admissions director Thomas Caleel shares valuable insights and tips for high school juniors as they approach the college admission process. The selected clips from Season One cover a range of topics, including the importance of academic performance, how to stand out in extracurricular activities, choosing recommenders, navigating college visits, planning a strategic summer, and the significance of the Common Application opening on August 1. Join Thom...
Jun 12, 2023•15 min•Ep. 22
We will be back! Wrapping up Season 1 and preparing for the launch of Season 2. Let's reflect on all of this years' achievements and celebrate the end of another school year. Join our mailing list HERE for important *BONUS* content and updates. Follow us on instagram @admittedlypodcast Key notes: The podcast will be taking a brief hiatus for the start of summer, but Thomas assures listeners that an exciting second season is on the horizon. Exclusive content and special guides are in the works fo...
Jun 03, 2023•5 min•Season 1Ep. 20
In this mini-series, Thomas talks about the top things to do as a junior student applying to college. It is an important time because the students start to feel that their time is coming, and several questions are now coming to mind. As a follow-up to the previous episode, today, Thomas highlights the best tips to follow during your application. Usually, August 1st is the day when students are allowed to start their applications, but you don't get any extra points for being too early. A lot can ...
May 09, 2023•20 min•Ep. 19
In this mini-series, Thomas talks about the top things to do as a junior student applying to college. It is an important time because the students start to feel that their time is coming, and several questions are now coming to mind. Although it is normal to be confused and overwhelmed, it is also important to take a moment and start to organize things. For example, making a list of schools the student wants to apply to, visiting these same schools, gathering recommendations, and researching are...
May 04, 2023•19 min•Ep. 18
MBA is the perfect program for students looking to accelerate their careers and strengthen their skills. These programs are designed to help young students succeed in any business area. In this episode, Thomas highlights the best strategy for college students to begin an MBA program. First and foremost, it is helpful to look up all the options and all the different courses that universities have to offer. From there, to apply to a program, it is also fundamental to understand the DNA of the prog...
May 02, 2023•19 min•Ep. 17
If you don't know ChatGPT, it's a new technology that can - among other things - create well-written texts for many purposes. An admission essay would not be different. But what are the positive and negative points of using such technology? In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas gives his perspective on this topic, highlighting the risks of relying on ChatGPT to write the most flawless essay. One of the most important things in an admission essay is recognizing the writer’s personalit...
Apr 25, 2023•14 min•Ep. 16
In this episode of Admittedly Podcast, Thomas breaks down the different types of financial aid students can get. Although it’s an important topic, it’s also highly individual; every situation needs to be analyzed separately. Thomas explains that there are two main types of financial aid: merit-based and need-based. Need-based scholarship involves a form called FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form will ask questions that may or may not grant the student financial aid for co...
Apr 18, 2023•20 min•Ep. 15
Being honest and truthful in your application is the first step to take when trying to get into the college of your dreams. It’s common to try and make ourselves look good in the application, but there is a fine line between trying to look good and lying. In this episode, Thomas shares some tips about this topic, citing the Varsity Blues Scandal - one of the most significant cases of this nature ever investigated. It’s crucial to understand this process: admissions based on merit are a priority ...
Apr 13, 2023•13 min•Ep. 14
Ivy Day is when all the Ivy League schools release their admissions decisions. It’s an important day for students, but also a very stressful one. After all, it’s the day when the student sees the result of 4 years of hard work, and it can be positive or negative. Whatever the results are, it’s time to be smart and strategic. In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas shares his thoughts on the next steps after receiving a college admission decision. If the results are positive, it’s time ...
Apr 11, 2023•13 min•Ep. 13
In this episode of Admittedly Podcast, Thomas connects with Dr. Lauren Rubin. Dr. Rubin has over twenty years of experience teaching test prep and essay writing to students of all ages. In today’s show, Dr. Rubin talks about the important writing components of an essay and how to organize the ideas on the paper. One of the key steps to making a great essay is to first read the material with attention and fully understand the concept of what was read. After that, the next step should be using evi...
Apr 04, 2023•24 min•Ep. 12
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, Thomas connects with Dr. Lauren Rubin. Dr. Rubin has over twenty years of experience teaching test prep and essay writing to students of all ages. In today’s show, she shares several tips and strategies for standardized tests. For the student to reach their greatest potential, it’s important to take the proper test and the one whose particularities the student has more ability with. Dr. Rubin also highlights the differences between SAT and ACT, the impo...
Mar 31, 2023•27 min•Ep. 11
In this episode of Admittedly Podcast, Thomas takes us through a coaching session with a participant who is currently a freshman. Thinking about college admissions ahead of time can make a difference when it comes to analyzing all the options and alleviating the pressure. Part 3 of this coaching session discusses what a student should do over the summer. There are a lot of courses, extracurricular activities, and summer jobs available for high school students, and colleges really value this type...
Mar 28, 2023•20 min•Ep. 10
