Best InGenius Prep Podcasts (2024)

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93. USACO and College Applications: A Winning Combination for Computer Science Majors 27:29

1h ago27:29

27:29

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 novic…

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92. What’s Next After College Decisions? A Guide for Waitlisted, Rejected, and Accepted Students 28:22

16d ago28:22

28:22

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 w…

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91. College Admissions Confidential: Listener Q&A with Former Admissions Officers 28:17

16d ago28:17

28:17

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…

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90. How We Helped a Physics Major Get Accepted Into Columbia University 31:11

1M ago31:11

31:11

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 Applicatio…

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89. Is Research Experience a Must-Have in College Applications? 29:12

2M ago29:12

29:12

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 wi…

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88. How to Find Your Unique Voice in College Application Essays 24:52

2M ago24:52

24:52

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 question…

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87. College Admissions Unveiled: How Do Colleges Decide Who Gets Accepted? 28:42

3M ago28:42

28:42

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 applicatio…

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86. How to Elevate STEM Activities to Stand Out in College Applications 33:25

3M ago33:25

33:25

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, S…

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85. Fencing Your Way to College: Strategies for Admission Success 26:05

3M ago26:05

26:05

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 int…

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84. Starting 2024 Off Strong: Our Advice to Students 19:25

3M ago19:25

19:25

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 appli…

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83. 11 Students Admitted to MIT Last Round, 21.28% Above the Average Acceptance Rate: What’s Our Admissions Secret? 29:13

4M ago29:13

29:13

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…

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82. Developing Your Competitive Edge: Strategies for a Standout College Application 32:17

5M ago32:17

32:17

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 strateg…

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81. Ace the Digital SAT: The Ultimate Guide to Scoring in the Top 1% 29:40

5M ago29:40

29:40

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, thi…

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80. ChatGPT vs. Authenticity: Navigating Essay Writing in College Applications 26:58

6M ago26:58

26:58

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? …

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79. Computer Science in College Applications: Is it the Right Major For You? 18:49

6M ago18:49

18:49

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 posi…

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78. A Deep Dive Into Capstone Projects in College Applications 26:43

7M ago26:43

26:43

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…

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77. The Art of Passion Projects in College Applications 31:40

7M ago31:40

31:40

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, co…

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76. Exposing Our Secrets: The Insider’s Guide to College Applications 34:51

8M ago34:51

34:51

In the highly competitive world of college admissions, even the brightest students face unexpected challenges. On today’s episode, Nick Strohl, a Former Admissions Officer from Yale, reveals why even the best students with impeccable grades are unexpectedly rejected by their dream colleges. From crafting a balanced school list to strategically leve…

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75. A Yale Student Shares His Success Story and Top Tips for College Applications 28:05

8M ago28:05

28:05

Discover the secrets to securing an acceptance letter from Ivy League schools with insider tips from Shan Lateef, a former InGenius Prep student. Learn how Shan not only earned the top score for his letter of recommendation but also skillfully combined his diverse passions into one cohesive college application. Whether your interests lie in neurosc…

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74. Fine Tuning Success: Musical Talent in College Applications 32:00

8M ago32:00

32:00

Want to learn how to effectively showcase your musical talents to stand out from the crowd? On today's episode, Kathryn Scherer, Director of Undergraduate Services at InGenius Prep, uncovers her best strategies for using music to enhance your college application. Whether you are an aspiring music major or looking for ways to leverage your musical t…

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73. How to Stand Out as a Pre-Med Student in College Applications 36:16

9M ago36:16

36:16

From showcasing a genuine passion for medicine to leveraging unique experiences and hobbies, Ryan Creps, a Former Admissions Officer from Brown, reveals his best strategies for making a lasting impression in pre-med applications. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE. Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic r…

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72. Leadership Experience: The Missing Piece in College Applications 28:41

9M ago28:41

28:41

What does leadership really mean to schools and how can students successfully prove these qualities in their college applications? On today’s episode, Maya Gobert, Director of Student Innovation at InGenius Prep, reveals strategies on where to start and the importance of framing leadership as the centerpiece of a college application. To set up a co…

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71. How to Succeed as a Computer Science Student in College Admissions 29:35

10M ago29:35

29:35

On today’s episode, we reveal strategies that help students stand out when applying to one of the most competitive majors – computer science. Natalia Ostrowski, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Chicago, shares further insight into different programs, competitions, and application tips to create a well-rounded application as a comp…

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70. Early Admissions Case Studies: How Real Students Got Accepted Early to Their Dream Colleges 38:33

1+ y ago38:33

38:33

On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, an InGenius Prep Graduate Coach and our Digital Content Manager, and Vicky Rosenthal Madrid, our Assistant Director of Marketing. We discuss our first three case studies for the 2022-23 cycle of students accepted early to MIT, Brown PLME, and Rice University. We reveal the strategies these students u…

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69. The Top Summer Programs for High School Students and How to Gain Admission to Them 31:24

1+ y ago31:24

31:24

On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA graduate, InGenius Prep Graduate Coach, and writing professor at the University of New Haven. Padya and I discuss the top summer programs and their impact on college applications. Padya outlines the requirements for the top programs for business, humanities, and STEM students. The progr…

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68. SAT and ACT Prep: Strategies to Boost College Admissions Test Scores 45:41

1+ y ago45:41

45:41

On today’s episode, we chat with Brad Bailey, the founder of Bailey Test Prep. Brad and I discuss how students can prepare for the SAT and ACT to boost their admissions odds. Brad highlights specific strategies students can use to increase their scores and feel more confident taking tests. We had a couple of audio issues in the first ten minutes of…

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67. 11th Grade Prep: How High School Juniors Can Prepare Early for College Admissions 43:02

1+ y ago43:02

43:02

On today’s episode, we chat with Kathryn Scherer, InGenius Prep’s Director of Undergraduate Services. Kathryn and I discuss how 11th grade students can maximize junior year to prepare for college admissions. Kathryn explores everything from extracurriculars to course loads and summer plans to help juniors make the most of this crucial year. Check o…

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66. How High School Students Can Gain Research Experience to Stand Out in College Admissions 48:26

1+ y ago48:26

48:26

On today’s episode, we chat with Dr. Christopher Brown, InGenius Prep's Director of Academic Mentorships. Chris and I discuss the wide range of strategies high school students can use to gain research experience. Chris reveals how such practical exposure helps students stand out in the college admissions process. Check out our blog for more free re…

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65. What a Georgetown Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | Georgetown University 57:46

1+ y ago57:46

57:46

On today’s episode, we chat with Raheel Masood, the Former Associate Director of Admissions at Georgetown University. Raheel and I discuss the components of the Georgetown application and how applicants can stand out. Raheel highlights strategies for prospective students to gain admission. Check out our blog for more free resources: What College Ad…

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64. The Future of College Admissions: 2022 National Association for College Admissions Counseling Conference Recap 48:09

1+ y ago48:09

48:09

On today’s episode, we chat with Erin Gu, InGenius Prep’s Chief Education Officer. Erin recently attended the 2022 National Association for College Admissions Counseling Conference. Erin and I discuss what she learned, including changes to FAFSA and the uncertainty surrounding the future of affirmative action policies. Join our Facebook group the C…

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63. 2022-23 College Application Cycle: Analysis of Admissions Changes and Trends 30:52

1+ y ago30:52

30:52

NOTE: We've received notice that it is possible to apply early to both Stanford and USC. If you have any questions, we recommend contacting their admissions offices. On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA graduate, InGenius Prep Graduate Coach, and writing professor at the University of New Haven. Padya and I discuss some of…

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62. Talent in College Admissions: Highlighting Artistic, Athletic, and Academic Abilities in Applications 42:39

1+ y ago42:39

42:39

On today’s episode, we chat with Kevin Dupont, an athletic recruitment specialist and Former Admissions Officer from UC Berkeley, Tufts, Cornell, and UCSC. Kevin and I discuss the myriad of different ways students can showcase their talents in their college applications. Kevin answers frequently asked questions about talent in college admissions su…

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61. First Year College Success Strategies for Incoming University Freshmen 1:04:11

1+ y ago1:04:11

1:04:11

On today’s episode, we chat with Nick Strohl, a former Academic Advisor in the College of Letters and Science Honors Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Yale. Nick and I discuss numerous strategies and resources that university freshmen can utilize to set themselves up for academi…

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60. 11 College Admissions Myths: Debunking Common Misconceptions about the College Application Process 27:55

1+ y ago27:55

27:55

On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA graduate, InGenius Prep Graduate Coach, and writing professor at the University of New Haven. Padya and I break down 11 college admissions myths and misconceptions, including: MYTH #1 - True or False: Legacy students have a better chance of admissions MYTH #2 - True or False: You can bu…

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59. What an NYU Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | New York University 35:16

1+ y ago35:16

35:16

On today’s episode, we chat with Lydia Mason, a Former Admissions Reader at and graduate of NYU. Lydia and I discuss the type of students NYU looks for and how applicants can set themselves apart. Lydia reveals the many mistakes and misconceptions admissions officers encounter during the application process. Check out our blog for more free resourc…

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58. Creative Writing for College Applications 23:44

2y ago23:44

23:44

On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, a Columba MFA candidate and InGenius Prep Graduate Coach. Padya and I discuss how students can utilize the principles of creative writing in their college applications. Padya shares examples of students she worked with, highlighting how they used creative writing to stand out from other applicants. C…

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57. 2021-2022 College Application Cycle Debrief: Admissions Trends and Analysis 26:40

2y ago26:40

26:40

On today’s episode, we chat with Erin Gu, InGenius Prep’s Chief Education Officer. Erin and I discuss the admissions trends we’ve identified from the 2021-22 application cycle and how we think these trends will affect future applicants. Erin and I explore the role of test-optional policies, the increasing importance of the early decision round, the…

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56. What a Johns Hopkins Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants | Johns Hopkins University 50:13

2y ago50:13

50:13

On today’s episode, we chat with Zak Harris, a Former Admissions Officer at Johns Hopkins University, George Washington University, Bowdoin College, and Regis College. Zak and I discuss admissions at Johns Hopkins, breaking down each component of the application. Zak reveals admissions strategies for students who hope to attend Hopkins. Check out o…

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55. What a United States Naval Academy Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants 43:10

2y ago43:10

43:10

On today’s episode, we chat with Pat Williams, the former Director of Admissions at the United States Naval Academy and a current InGenius Prep counselor. Pat and I discuss the paths students can take to these service academies. Pat reveals how students can maximize their admissions odds at these prestigious schools. Check out our blog for more fre…

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54. How Students Can Utilize Arts and Performing Experience and Extracurriculars in College Admissions 34:59

2y ago34:59

34:59

On today’s episode, we chat with Karen Kerr, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. Karen and I discuss how students can incorporate arts extracurriculars into their college application strategy. Karen highlights ways for these students to utilize these experiences to stand out in the admiss…

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53. What a Dartmouth College Admissions Officer Wants from Applicants 51:11

2y ago51:11

51:11

On today’s episode, we chat with Heather McCutchen, a Former Admissions Reader at Dartmouth and a current InGenius Prep counselor. Heather and I discuss what makes Dartmouth special and what kind of applicants the college looks for. Heather reviews each aspect of the application from letters of recommendation to the alumni interview. Check out our …

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52. How Students at Highly Competitive High Schools Can Stand Out in College Admissions 25:23

2y ago25:23

25:23

On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, an InGenius Prep Graduate Coach and Columbia MFA candidate. Padya and I discuss the experiences of students who attend highly competitive high schools, and what admissions officers expect from these students. Padya details strategies students can use to stand out from their peers in the college admis…

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51. Applying to U.S. Universities as an International Student: the Admissions Process and the Student and Postgraduate Experience 40:15

2y ago40:15

40:15

On today’s episode, we chat with Victoria (Vicky) Rosenthal Madrid, InGenius Prep’s Assistant Director of Marketing and a former international student at Boston University and Florida International University and Miami Ad School. Vicky and I discuss what international students can expect when they apply to schools in the U.S. Vicky highlights key a…

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50. What a Columbia Admissions Officer Really Looks For | Columbia University 53:21

2y ago53:21

53:21

On today’s episode, we chat with Jennifer Duran, a Former Admissions Officer from Columbia University and InGenius Prep counselor. Jennifer and I discuss what types of students Columbia looks for and what sets it apart from the other Ivy League schools. Jennifer highlights what attributes students should showcase in their applications as well as ho…

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49. What a University of Michigan Admissions Officer Really Wants from Applicants 35:35

2y ago35:35

35:35

On today’s episode, we chat with Gail Rubin Dauer, a Former Application Review Specialist, at the University of Michigan Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Gail and I discuss what type of students the University of Michigan looks for and how applicants can stand out. Gail highlights what makes UMich special and how students should approach its sup…

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48. Future of College Admissions: 2021 National Association for College Admission Counseling Conference 41:05

2y ago41:05

41:05

On today’s episode, we chat with Heather McCutchen, a former Admissions Reader at Dartmouth, and Mary Chobanian, a former Admissions Reader at Harvard and Barnard. Heather and Mary share the insights they gained from the 2021 National Association for College Admissions Counseling conference. They discuss everything from test-optional policies to AI…

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47. What a Duke University Merit Scholarships Director Really Wants from Applicants 30:10

2y ago30:10

30:10

On today’s episode, we chat with Melissa Rains, a former Director of Merit Scholarships at Duke University and an InGenius Prep counselor. Melissa breaks down what goes on behind the scenes in the Duke admissions and merit scholarship offices. She also provides students with tangible advice to increase their likelihood of receiving a merit scholars…

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46. The ABCs of College Financial Aid: Scholarships, Loans, and More 44:14

2+ y ago44:14

44:14

On today’s episode, we chat with the team behind SMARTTRACK College Funding, National Program Director Cyndi Menegaz and Co-Founder & CFO Scott Greenameyer. Scott and Cyndi break down the different types of college funding and how families can maximize the aid they receive. They provide common misconceptions and mistakes to set families up for succ…

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45. What to Do If You’re Deferred or Rejected from Your Early Decision or Early Action School 19:43

2+ y ago19:43

19:43

On today’s episode, we chat again with Padya Paramita, an InGenius Prep Graduate Coach and Columbia student. Padya and I discuss why students might be deferred or rejected from their early decision or early action college. Padya explains the next steps students can take, including writing a letter of continued interest if they’re deferred and apply…

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44. What a Yale Admissions Officer Really Wants from Applicants | Yale University 42:37

2+ y ago42:37

42:37

On today’s episode, we chat with Nick Strohl, a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Yale University and an InGenius Prep counselor. Nick and I discuss what makes Yale unique compared to other Ivy League and elite colleges, and what really goes on behind the scenes in the admissions office. Nick breaks down the Yale application, includ…

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