College Planning Simplified

Send us Fan Mail We talk with productivity coach Gigi Miller about why college admissions can trigger overwhelm, procrastination, and shutdown even for high-achieving teens. We share practical ways parents can support executive functioning and ADHD challenges while still keeping ownership with the student.  • Executive functioning as the brain’s management system for planning, organization, time m...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jamie Pack, Director of Content at Advantage College Planning helps break down what the Common App personal statement is really for, then she walks prompt by prompt through how students can write an essay that reveals character instead of chasing the “most impressive” story. We focus on voice, tone, and reflection so admissions readers finish your essay feeling li...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Stephanie sits down with test prep expert Jenny Cochran from ArborBridge to break down what the SAT and ACT really measure and why “easy” depends on the student. We debunk four testing myths and share practical ways to choose a test, plan retakes, and use scores strategically for admissions and merit scholarships.  The topics include: • How SAT and ACT differ in t...

Send us Fan Mail A big welcome to our new host, Stephanie D’Souza! In this episode, Stephanie shares what she learned reading applications inside multiple admissions offices, including Duke University. She explains why highly selective decisions hinge on mission fit, real impact, and character, not just perfect grades and “checking the boxes.”  • Stephanie’s admissions background across research u...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle breaks down four key tasks every rising senior should tackle before senior year begins. From starting your Common App and building a strong activity list to brainstorming your personal statement and balancing your college list, she'll walk you through how starting early sets you up for a smoother, more confident applicat...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Jamie Pack, Director of Content and a college consultant at Advantage College Planning, to discuss the nuances of writing college essays. Jamie highlights the value of an authentic voice in essays and provides practical advice on brainstorming and drafting compelling personal statements. The episode also offers g...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Clay Alexander from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to discuss the evolving admissions landscape at UTK. They cover key topics like what the admissions review process looks like, how students can stand out beyond GPA and test scores, and what out-of-state applicants should know, especially in light of Ten...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, host Arielle and Lindsey Roy discuss how students can make the most out of their summer. They emphasize the importance of intentional planning and the value of part-time jobs, authentic personal projects, and volunteer experiences. They also highlight the significance of early application processes, like starting the Common App, crea...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Jared Rosenberg, the Interim Director of Admissions at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Jared shares valuable insights on the university's admissions process, including application statistics, acceptance rates, and the importance of extracurricular activities. He clarifies common questions ab...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Simrat Arora, a fourth-year medical student at UNC Chapel Hill, to discuss her journey from high school to medical school. Simrat shares valuable insights about building a strong foundation in high school, the importance of networking and gaining exposure to medicine early on, and the criteria she used when selec...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle and Advantage College Planning team member Gina Wilner discuss important steps for high school juniors as they prepare for the college admissions process. Key topics include setting goals, selecting rigorous senior year courses, preparing for standardized tests, and planning college visits. The episode also offers strategies...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle chats with Martin Fisher, Director of Campus Visit and Orientation Programs at the University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss. Hotty Totty!  Discover why USA Today hails the Ole Miss campus and the charming town of Oxford as the best in the nation . Martin shares what makes Ole Miss unique, from its vibrant s...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle focuses on the college recruitment process for student athletes with Amy Bryant. They cover key aspects of preparing for collegiate sports, including understanding the recruitment timeline, balancing academics and athletics, and navigating commitments. Whether your student is aiming to play a sport in college or you’re simply...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Sam Cady from UNC Charlotte to explore the university’s innovative initiatives, including its R1 research status, AIR institute, and Honors College. Whether you’re considering a business degree or looking for a robust honors program, this episode offers valuable insights into what UNC Charlotte has to offer.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle covers five key tips for parents during the college application process, from filling out parent education information to preparing for the FAFSA. Learn how to provide the right support and stay organized as deadlines approach. Create an FSA ID: https://studentaid.gov/sites/default/files/creating-using-fsaid.pdf Who is a Cont...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Arielle and her teammate, Arrin Dutton discuss how seniors can prepare for the application season. They chat about deadlines, essays, testing, and letters of recommendation. This is a jam-packed episode with everything students need before they apply!

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Arielle is joined by Cindy Ganas from the University of Georgia to discuss how students can succeed in the UGA admissions process. They discuss UGA's initiatives for helping students transition, the role of admissions representatives, and the academic criteria UGA considers.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Arielle invites Justin, a high school Dean of Students, to share tips for effective communication with your high school counselor, strategies to identify and leverage your academic abilities, and practical advice for students who are feeling unsure about their future goals.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Arielle and Ann discuss college affordability. They debunk common misconceptions about paying for college and share the importance of understanding college costs. They also highlight the use of net price calculators, the importance of student ownership in the college admissions process, and various methods for financing education, including scholarships and merit...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Arielle and Jordan explore how experiences and learning new skills in high school can shape students' college majors. They share tips for students who are unsure of what to study, including trying new activities, considering colleges that support student exploration, and utilizing tools like personality assessments and online resources.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, join Arielle as she chats with Fredrick Evans from Elon University about what makes the school unique. Uncover the qualities Elon looks for in applicants and how to highlight them. Gain insights into demonstrated interest in admissions and customizable experiences such as internships, research, and study abroad programs.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, join Arielle and Lindsey as they discuss receiving a denied admissions decision. Together, they delicately navigate the emotional landscape of decision-making, offering a supportive hand to students and comforting advice for parents. In moments of college denial, Arielle and Lindsey share not just tips but compassion, helping you set...

Send us Fan Mail Join College Planning Simplified for an insightful discussion with Morris Kohanfars, Director of Business Development at ArborBridge, acclaimed as the “Best Online Tutoring Service in America.” Explore the digital SAT's evolution, from pandemic-driven changes to test optional trends. Learn why digital testing offers enhanced security and efficiency. Gain expert advice for the...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Arielle is joined by the one and only Rick Clark, Assistant Vice Provost and Executive Director of Admissions at Georgia Tech! They have an insightful discussion on the intersection of AI and higher education. Explore AI's impact on college admissions and Georgia Tech's forward-thinking approach. Learn how generative AI like ChatGPT can support college e...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Gina and Arielle talk about college selectivity. They discuss striking a balance between nurturing dreams and being realistic. Listen in as they shed light on how selectivity has changed, aiming to provide insights that empower both parents and students in navigating the competitive landscape of college admissions.