Inside the Admissions Office: Advice from Former Admissions Officers

Are academic competitions worth the time and effort? We’re covering everything from the top competitions that impress admissions officers, to how to find a healthy balance between specializing and exploring different interests. We’ll also touch on the not-so-talked-about side of competitions—what happens when your student doesn’t win and how they can still come away with tons of value from the experience. Whether your student is gearing up for their first competition or already a seasoned participant, this episode offers insights to help make the most of the experience—and stay balanced in the process. Listen now to understand how academic competitions can impact your student's future (and how to make them work for you). --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE [https://share.hsforms.com/1H5J_Zc8xSeSQ6Ec5n7QdLw31iae].  Register [https://ingeniusprep.com/webinars/] for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com [jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com]. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com [https://ingeniusprep.com/].

Juniors, ready to ace your college applications? Get exclusive insights from Former Admissions Officers at UC Berkeley and the University of Chicago in this must-listen episode! We’re diving into expert strategies to help you stand out, avoid common mistakes, and balance academics with extracurriculars—plus, we’re answering real questions from students like you. Whether you're just starting or deep in the process, this episode is packed with insider admissions tips to give you the edge. Hit play now and get ahead in your college journey! --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE [https://share.hsforms.com/1H5J_Zc8xSeSQ6Ec5n7QdLw31iae].  Register [https://ingeniusprep.com/webinars/] for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com [jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com]. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com [https://ingeniusprep.com/].

When it comes to choosing a college, rankings can feel like the end-all-be-all. We get it—seeing a school in the “Top 10” list is reassuring. But are those numbers telling the full story? In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on college rankings. With insights from Former Assistant Director of Admissions at NYU, we dive into: * Why rankings can sometimes mislead students and families * The factors behind the numbers—and which ones really matter * What students should prioritize instead: academic fit, campus environment, and long-term career impact We’ll help you and your student move beyond the rankings hype and focus on finding a school that’s the right fit, not just a “top pick.” --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE [https://share.hsforms.com/1H5J_Zc8xSeSQ6Ec5n7QdLw31iae].  Register [https://ingeniusprep.com/webinars/] for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com [jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com]. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com [https://ingeniusprep.com/].

With college admissions becoming increasingly competitive, many students feel pressured to "do it all" when it comes to extracurriculars. But is that really what colleges are looking for? In our latest podcast episode, we uncover the reality behind how admissions officers evaluate student activities. You'll learn: * How admissions officers evaluate what students actually contribute to their activities—not just participation * The value of demonstrating academic interest beyond the classroom through research, pre-college programs, or independent projects * Why leadership isn’t just about holding a title, but about adding value and making an impact This episode is a must-listen for parents and students through the admissions process. --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE [https://share.hsforms.com/1H5J_Zc8xSeSQ6Ec5n7QdLw31iae].  Register [https://ingeniusprep.com/webinars/] for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com [jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com]. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com [https://ingeniusprep.com/].

With the recent changes in standardized testing, many families are asking: SAT or ACT—what’s the best fit for your student? In this episode, Jake Adams, Director of InGenius Test Prep, breaks down everything you need to know to make an informed decision. He discusses how to choose the right test based on your student’s strengths, the latest updates on the Digital ACT launching in April 2025, and offers strategies for students who may struggle with standardized testing. Jake also shares practical tips to help your teen prepare with confidence, showing that standardized testing doesn’t have to be stressful. Tune in for expert advice on how to navigate this crucial part of the college admissions process! --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE [https://share.hsforms.com/1H5J_Zc8xSeSQ6Ec5n7QdLw31iae].  Register [https://ingeniusprep.com/webinars/] for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com [jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com]. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com [https://ingeniusprep.com/].