In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel provides an in-depth analysis of the Brown University supplement. He highlights the unique aspects of Brown's educational philosophy, particularly the open curriculum, and offers advice on how to approach each of the supplemental essay prompts. Summary of Key Points: 1. The Open Curriculum: Brown's open curriculum offers students the freedom to design their own academic path. Thomas emphasizes the importance of understanding this co...
Sep 26, 2024•7 min•Season 3Ep. 17
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the Johns Hopkins supplement, focusing on how to strategically approach its two-part question. He emphasizes the importance of integrating your life experience with your academic goals to create a cohesive narrative. Summary of Key Points: Integration of Community and Academics: Thomas stresses the importance of connecting your personal background and identity to your academic interests, showing how your experiences have...
Sep 17, 2024•3 min•Season 3Ep. 16
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel takes on the Stanford supplement, providing advice on how to approach its famous questions. Thomas highlights how to stand out by showing intellectual curiosity, personal engagement, and a strong connection to the Stanford community. Summary of Key Points: 1. Reflecting on an Experience that Excites You About Learning: Stanford seeks students who are genuinely excited about learning. Thomas advises applicants to reflect on a meaning...
Sep 15, 2024•4 min•Season 3Ep. 15
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the Yale University supplement, guiding applicants through the nuances of both the short and longer essay questions. He emphasizes the importance of research, personal reflection, and thoughtful responses to create a cohesive narrative that resonates with the admissions committee. Summary of Key Points: 1. "Why Yale" Essay: This standard "Why this school?" essay requires thorough research on what makes Yale a unique fit ...
Sep 13, 2024•7 min•Season 3Ep. 14
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the Cornell supplement essay, which asks applicants to discuss a community that is meaningful to them. With a 350-word limit, Thomas offers guidance on how to effectively narrow down your focus and craft a compelling narrative that reflects your personal identity and how it will shape your experience at Cornell. Summary of Key Points: 1. Selecting the Right Community: Cornell's essay invites you to discuss a community that ...
Sep 08, 2024•4 min•Season 3Ep. 13
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel dives into the Penn Supplement, focusing on the two required essays for all applicants: the thank you letter and the community essay. He also provides tips for navigating the school-specific essays depending on the program you're applying to. Summary of Key Points: 1. The Thank You Letter: This 150-200 word essay requires you to write a thank you note to someone who has meaningfully impacted your life. Thomas emphasizes the importan...
Sep 01, 2024•6 min•Season 3Ep. 12
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down the five short essay questions in the Harvard University supplement. With each response limited to 100 words, Thomas provides strategic advice on how to approach these prompts with clarity, brevity, and a focus on personal storytelling. Summary of Key Points: 1. Diversity and Life Experiences: The first essay asks applicants to highlight what makes them unique. Thomas emphasizes the importance of isolating one or two key...
Aug 25, 2024•7 min•Season 3Ep. 11
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel provides an in-depth guide to tackling the four main essays in the Columbia University supplement. He offers strategic advice on how to approach each essay, ensuring that applicants present their most authentic and compelling selves. Summary of Key Points: 1. Selection of Texts and Resources: This essay asks for a list of texts, resources, and outlets that shape your intellectual interests. Thomas advises students to be creative and...
Aug 20, 2024•8 min•Season 3Ep. 10
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel explores the different types of MBA programs available: full-time, part-time or executive, online, and early career. He provides insights into how to choose the right program based on your career goals, timing, and personal circumstances. Summary of Key Points: 1. Full-Time MBA Programs: Full-time MBAs are immersive, two-year programs ideal for individuals in their mid-20s who are looking to make a career change or deepen their expe...
Aug 15, 2024•12 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Introduction: In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel interviews Delenn Ganyo, a colleague in college admissions and professional academic tutor. They discuss the topic of dual enrollment, middle colleges, and the benefits and challenges of pursuing non-traditional educational paths. Summary of Key Points: 1. Introduction to Dual Enrollment: Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college-level courses alongside their high school curriculum, often earning coll...
Aug 08, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 8
Introduction: In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel discusses the opening of the Common Application and the beginning of the college application season. He provides essential advice for students and parents on navigating the Common App, including the importance of attention to detail, strategic planning, and understanding the various components of the application process. Summary of Key Points: 1. The Common Application Opening: The Common App opens on August 1, signali...
Aug 01, 2024•18 min•Season 3Ep. 7
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel discusses US boarding schools. He shares some details from his own experience as a Taft student and parent through the years, as well as advice on who might be a good fit for boarding school life. With many pros for the right student and potential cons for an ill fit, boarding schools are a complicated and important consideration. Summary of Key Points: Introduction to Boarding Schools: Caleel introduces boarding schools as educatio...
Jul 12, 2024•16 min•Season 3Ep. 6
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel advises families and students on how to proceed with college application preparation in the wake of a serious disciplinary issue. Admissions officers look for self-aware, mature students who understand their challenges and how they've grown from them. If serious trouble occurs senior year, taking a gap year to build a strong track record might be beneficial. Thomas emphasizes the importance of addressing mistakes during applications...
Jul 04, 2024•12 min•Season 3Ep. 5
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, host Thomas Caleel delves into the intricate process of building a college list, a pivotal task for high school juniors as they navigate their way through the admissions journey. Caleel addresses common concerns and misconceptions surrounding this process, emphasizing the importance of considering various factors to craft a well-rounded and realistic list of potential universities. Summary of Key Points: Understanding the Role of College Counselors: C...
Jun 27, 2024•18 min•Season 3Ep. 4
In this episode of the "Admittedly" podcast, former director of MBA admissions Thomas Caleel describes ways for high school Juniors to enjoy their summers in ways that will strengthen their upcoming college applications. He warns against common errors that students and their parents often make as they plan this crucial period in the college preparation process. Summary of Key Points: Remedial academics: Caleel describes when it is appropriate and when it is less advisable to re-take a course fol...
Jun 21, 2024•19 min•Season 3Ep. 3
Introduction: In the second episode of the third season of the Admittedly Podcast, hosted by Thomas Caleel, the focus is on Juniors in High School who are embarking on the college application process. With Ivy Day looming for Seniors and Juniors just starting this journey, Thomas provides insightful guidance on what Juniors should be doing and thinking about as they head into the summer and prepare for the fall. Summary of Key Points: Taking Ownership of the Process: Thomas emphasizes the import...
Apr 26, 2024•24 min•Season 3Ep. 2
Welcome to the third season of Admittedly. In this episode host Thomas Caleel highlights the purpose of this podcast, to connect with students globally and offer guidance through educational challenges. In this episode we discuss admissions decisions, waitlists, and how to prepare for this summer. Summary of Key Points: Reflections on Seniors: Acknowledges the different scenarios seniors face post-application submission, whether awaiting responses or grappling with decisions. Encourages seniors ...
Apr 23, 2024•16 min•Season 3Ep. 1
In this episode of the Admittedly Podcast, hosted by Thomas Caleel, listeners are guided through the nuances of the University of California application process. With the November 30 deadline looming, Thomas takes a moment to commend his audience for successfully navigating the early decision/early action deadlines, only to now embark on a fresh challenge—applying to the University of California system. Key Points: The Unique UC Application: Thomas emphasizes that the UC application is distinct ...
Nov 02, 2023•19 min•Season 2Ep. 29
This weeks' question of the week: It's November 1st, now what? If you applied early action/early decision you would of submitted your application by the deadline so it's time to talk a breath and talk about next steps. Have your own question of the week you'd like answered? Send us a DM on social media @admittedlypodcast . About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For th...
Nov 02, 2023•3 min•Season 2Ep. 28
Today's QOTW is in regards to contacting the school or admissions rep after submitting your application. Have your own question you'd like answered? Send us a message on social media @admittedlypodcast for a chance to be featured. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For three years, he was Director of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton. He worked closely w...
Oct 24, 2023•4 min•Season 2Ep. 28
Today's question of the week- "How do I check my progress after I submit?" In today's episode we go through a brief overview of the applicant portal, what you will find in there, and how to check your status and update your application. Have your own question you want answered? Leave us a comment on social media @admittedlypodcast for a chance to get featured. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 20...
Oct 20, 2023•3 min•Season 2Ep. 27
As we approach the November 1st early decision and early action deadline, we delve into an exciting yet perplexing aspect of college applications - the unique supplements, with a particular focus on the University of Chicago. Key Points: UChicago's Unconventional Approach: UChicago is notorious for its unconventional supplements that challenge applicants to think outside the box. It's often seen as the "fun goes to die" school, but that couldn't be further from the truth. This institution is on ...
Oct 17, 2023•16 min•Season 2Ep. 26
What does test optional really mean? In today's episode your host Thomas Caleel interviews David Blobaum from National Test Prep Association. They discuss important issues around test prep, test-optional schools, and other helpful insights into standardized testing. About David David Blobaum is a nationally recognized expert in the entrance exam and college admissions industry and is the Director of Outreach for the National Test Prep Association, which works to support the appropriate use of te...
Oct 10, 2023•27 min•Season 2Ep. 25
In this episode, your host, Thomas Caleel, delves into the world of college supplements and supplemental essays. With the approaching November 1 deadline for early action and early decision applications, Thomas aims to ease concerns and provide a roadmap for success in tackling these critical components of the college application process. Key Points: Understanding the Significance of Supplements : Supplements are an essential part of your college application, offering schools the chance to conve...
Oct 05, 2023•22 min•Season 2Ep. 24
In this weeks' question of the week Thomas is addressing whether additional recommenders are important to stand out in your common application. Have your own question of the week you'd like answered? Send us a DM on instagram @admittedlypodcast or email us hello@thomascaleel.com for a chance to have your question featured. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Silicon Valley. For th...
Oct 03, 2023•6 min•Season 2Ep. 23
In this episode host Thomas Caleel welcomes Chris Holloway, a licensed educational psychologist with 16 years of experience in assessing and supporting students with disabilities. Chris's expertise in educational psychology and counseling, along with his dedication to tailoring assessments and strategies for each student, makes him a valuable resource for families seeking to understand and address their unique needs. Join us as we delve into the world of educational psychology and the importance...
Sep 27, 2023•31 min•Season 2Ep. 22
This week we are discussing major selection when applying to college. Do you need to be strategic about it? Thomas Caleel, former Director of Admissions gives his take. Make sure to follow for more college admissions tips. Have your own question you'd like answered? Send us a DM on social media @admittedlypodcast for a chance to be featured. About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at the Wharton School of Business in 2003, he moved to Sil...
Sep 26, 2023•5 min•Season 2Ep. 21
On today's episode we are delving into the questions pouring in from our vibrant social media community, filled with students from across the globe. Interacting with you all has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey, and the questions you bring are incredibly thoughtful and relevant to the college application process. So, today, we'll explore recurring themes and specific questions I've received, aiming to shed light on this collective learning experience. Key Points: The Illusi...
Sep 19, 2023•24 min
In today's episode Thomas Caleel is joined by a very special guest, Christian Hernandez. Christian, a technologist and experienced venture capitalist, has an impressive background. Prior to co-founding 2150, a venture capital firm focused on climate solutions, Christian launched White Star Capital, a venture capital fund with over 250 million dollars in assets under management and a global presence. Christian also held leadership roles through the scale-up phase of some of the world's largest te...
Sep 12, 2023•29 min•Season 2Ep. 19
I get lots of questions regarding alumni interviews. What should I talk about? What if I didn't get an interview? What questions should I ask? How to write a thank you note? In this week's question of the week we will be answering all these questions about alumni interviews for college admissions. Have your own question of the week? Send us a DM for a chance to have it featured @admittedlypodcast About Thomas Caleel Thomas is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. After earning his MBA at...
Sep 07, 2023•7 min•Season 2Ep. 18
