Admittedly: College Admissions with Thomas Caleel

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...

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 o...

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 T...

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...

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 ess...

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://thomas...

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 q...

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...

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 chari...

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 fo...

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 bo...

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 curiosi...

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'...

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 holi...

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 socia...

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...

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 admiss...

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 advi...

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 a...

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, planni...

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 tha...

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 all...

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 st...

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 t...

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...