College Planning Simplified artwork

College Planning Simplified

46 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago -

College planning is stressful! We bring you the latest news on choosing a good fit college, presenting yourself effectively in college applications, writing effective college essays, building a successful high school resume, and navigating the college admission process successfully.

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Episodes

How to Choose a College Major

March 25, 2024 14:00 - 38 minutes - 26.5 MB

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.

What Sets Elon University Apart? Discovering Its Unique Qualities

February 27, 2024 14:00 - 35 minutes - 24.5 MB

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.

I've Been Denied! Now What?

January 29, 2024 20:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MB

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 realistic expectations and envision what's next. 

Ready for the New SAT Format? Evolution of Standardized Testing

December 04, 2023 14:00 - 26 minutes - 18.1 MB

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 class of 2025’s shift to digital testing and insights on score considerations for colleges across formats. Connect w...

ChatGpt in College Admissions: AI Thoughts with Georgia Tech

October 24, 2023 13:00 - 34 minutes - 23.8 MB

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 essays while preserving students' unique voices.  Arielle and Rick also discuss Georgia Tech's use of AI to enhance admiss...

ChatGpt and Admissions Essays: AI Thoughts with Georgia Tech

October 24, 2023 13:00 - 34 minutes - 23.8 MB

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 essays while preserving students' unique voices.  Arielle and Rick also discuss Georgia Tech's use of AI to enhance admiss...

Selective Admissions, How Tough Is It Really?

September 27, 2023 11:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MB

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.

3 Common Mistakes in Your College Application

August 29, 2023 13:00 - 4 minutes - 3.18 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle explores common mistakes students often make and provides valuable insights to help students better understand the application process.

Exploring Campus: Insider Tips for College Tours and Open Houses

July 25, 2023 14:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle and Leslie Sharpe explore the difference between registering for an 'official visit' through admissions and casually walking around with a friend. They share key factors students should consider when planning a visit, including optimal times of the year and special events that can enhance the experience. They also discuss the benefits of attending Open Houses and provide tips on maximizing your visit.

How Are Your Grades Evaluated at Clemson University?

June 26, 2023 14:00 - 23 minutes - 16 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Dr. Rick Barth, Director of Admissions at Clemson University, to delve into the application process. Together, they discuss the self-reported academic record, the significance of course rigor, and the support services available to Clemson students. Join them as they offer valuable insights and advice on establishing a connection with your regional counselor and maximizing your chances of success.

What Are The Trends in College Admissions?

May 23, 2023 15:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle, and Lindsey talk about hot topics in the world of college admissions. They explore the latest trend of test-optional policies and how they impact the admissions process. They’ll also discuss the importance of finding the right college fit, chat about holistic admissions, and how extracurricular activities can make all the difference.

Hot Topics in Admissions

May 23, 2023 15:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle, and Lindsey talk about hot topics in the world of college admissions. They explore the latest trend of test-optional policies and how they impact the admissions process. They’ll also discuss the importance of finding the right college fit, chat about holistic admissions, and how extracurricular activities can make all the difference.

What is Reviewed in Your College Application?

April 24, 2023 17:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MB

In our latest episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle sits down with Maggie Murphy, Assistant Director of Admissions, at the University of Tampa to chat about how college applications are reviewed by admissions officers! 

Applying Undecided vs Choosing a Major at NC State

March 28, 2023 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.7 MB

In this episode, Arielle talks to Justin Richardson, a Senior Associate Director of Admissions at NC State. They discuss the role a student’s major plays in the application process and address the age-old question of whether students should choose a major or apply undecided.

Demonstrated Engagement: How A Simple Action Can Influence Your Admission Decision

February 17, 2023 20:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MB

On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle speaks with Lauren Sefton from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Lauren shares her approach to demonstrated interest and provides insight into the true “engagement” of the process through genuine connection!

Demonstrated Interest: How A Simple Action Can Influence Your Admission Decision

February 17, 2023 20:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MB

On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle speaks with Lauren Sefton from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Lauren shares her approach to demonstrated interest and provides insight into the true “engagement” of the process through genuine connection!

I've Been Deferred, Help!

January 26, 2023 00:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MB

On this episode of College Planning Simplified, we hear from Gina Wilner from our Advantage College Planning team. Arielle and Gina talk about what being deferred means, what students can do to continue to express their interest, and how to refine the college list.

Honors College Conversation East Carolina University

November 09, 2022 01:00 - 36 minutes - 25.1 MB

In this episode, Arielle discusses the benefits of an ECU honors college experience with Dr. Todd Fraley and Margaret Turner, they chat about what criteria are reviewed in the application process, scholarship details, and who is a good fit for ECU’s Honors College.

Honors College Conversation East Carolina University

November 09, 2022 01:00 - 36 minutes - 25.1 MB

In this episode, Arielle discusses the benefits of an ECU honors college experience with Dr. Todd Fraley and Margaret Turner, they chat about what criteria are reviewed in the application process, scholarship details, and who is a good fit for ECU’s Honors College.

Episode 9: Building a College List

September 28, 2022 19:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Jordan Richards, College Consultant at Advantage College Planning, will share her best tips on crafting a balanced and realistic college list.

Building a College List

September 28, 2022 19:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Jordan Richards, College Consultant at Advantage College Planning, will share her best tips on crafting a balanced and realistic college list.

Mindful Admissions with author Laurén Carter

September 06, 2022 18:00 - 36 minutes - 25.1 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle interviews Laurén Carter, author of Mindful Admissions, former Director of College Admissions at NYU, and current Director of College Counseling at Sidwell Friends School. They talk about students’ self-discovery, activities lists, and strategies for interviews. 

Interview with author Laurén Carter on Mindful Admissions

September 06, 2022 18:00 - 36 minutes - 25.1 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle interviews Laurén Carter, author of Mindful Admissions, former Director of College Admissions at NYU, and current Director of College Counseling at Sidwell Friends School. They talk about students’ self-discovery, activities lists, and strategies for interviews. 

5 Action Items for Seniors in 5 Minutes

August 07, 2022 14:00 - 4 minutes - 3.46 MB

In this episode, Arielle gives seniors five things to take action on in five minutes! Get your senior in good shape before school starts with her tips! 

Application Countdown: 5 Action Items for Rising Seniors

August 07, 2022 14:00 - 4 minutes - 3.46 MB

In this episode, Arielle gives seniors five things to take action on in five minutes! Get your senior in good shape before school starts with her tips! 

Financial Aid & Affordability with Jeff Levy

July 27, 2022 15:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MB

On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle catches up with Jeff Levy, an educational consultant and financial advisor at Grown & Flown. They discuss how families should factor affordability into their college search, why every family should apply for financial aid, and explore the differences between financial aid and student loans.

Admission Advice from the University of Richmond

June 30, 2022 15:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle chats with Kyah Stewart from the University of Richmond about her experiences as an Admissions Counselor. They discuss Kyah’s approach to reading applications, and how Richmond evaluates contribution to the community, and Kyah will share some admissions advice for students and families. 

Qualities of Effective Essays

June 07, 2022 18:00 - 33 minutes - 23.4 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, we'll share how to create an application essay that an admissions office won't be able to stop reading. We will discuss how a student’s voice, thoughts, and core values are important factors that can be shared through a college essay. We’ll dive into the power of reflection and wrap up with our experiences in helping students pick an essay topic.

What Makes a Standout College Essay?

June 07, 2022 18:00 - 33 minutes - 23.4 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, we'll share how to create an application essay that an admissions office won't be able to stop reading. We will discuss how a student’s voice, thoughts, and core values are important factors that can be shared through a college essay. We’ll dive into the power of reflection and wrap up with our experiences in helping students pick an essay topic.

The New Digital SAT: What You Need To Know!

May 27, 2022 16:00 - 22 minutes - 15.4 MB

The SAT is changing! In this episode, Arielle speaks with Megan Stubbendeck and Morris Kohanfars from ArborBridge about the new digital SAT and what changes you can expect! 

College Application Deadline Types: How Do I Choose Which is Right for ME?

April 28, 2022 15:00 - 30 minutes - 21 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, we will talk about different college application deadlines, with Gina Wilner, from Advantage College Planning. We're hoping to give students and families an opportunity to get a head start on understanding admissions deadlines to plan the best strategy to apply.

From 8th Grade to 9th Grade: Setting Your Student Up for High School Success

March 28, 2022 19:00 - 22 minutes - 15.3 MB

In this episode of College Planning Simplified, we will talk about how middle schoolers start preparing for high school, with Lindsey Ringenbach, Director of College Consulting, from Advantage College Planning. We'll discuss summer planning, the transition to high school, and encourage reading for fun.  At the end, we will share how you can access our book suggestion list for rising 9th graders!

Navigating the Common Application Activity List

June 11, 2021 16:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

In this episode, Lindsey talks with colleagues, Jamie Pack and Gina Wilner, about how to approach the activity list in the Common Application. Listen for tips, hacks, and general guidance about how to create a story within the activity list section in the application. 

Volunteer Opportunities During COVID

February 03, 2021 16:00 - 8 minutes - 5.87 MB

Lindsey interviews Rose Thompson, Volunteer Programs Manager for Activate Good. Lindsey and Rose discuss how and why students should get involved in community service projects now and in the summer. 

Deferred? What does that mean?

January 25, 2021 15:00 - 12 minutes - 8.35 MB

 In this episode, Lindsey Ringenbach and colleague, Jamie Pack, discuss what to do if your application for admission was deferred. 

Deferred? What does that mean?

January 25, 2021 15:00 - 12 minutes - 8.35 MB

 In this episode, Lindsey Ringenbach and colleague, Jamie Pack, discuss what to do if your application for admission was deferred. 

Setting and Achieving Your Goals in 2021

January 08, 2021 00:00 - 18 minutes - 12.5 MB

In this episode, Lindsey interviews Brooke Daly, founder of Advantage College Planning, to discuss how both students and parents can set and achieve their goals in 2021. 

How Do Selective Colleges Review High School Transcripts?

December 08, 2020 18:00 - 19 minutes - 13.3 MB

In this episode, Lindsey talks with Advantage College Planning team member, Gina Wilner, about how selective colleges review the essential elements of the high school transcript. 

Interview with Recruited Swimmer, Bode Ringenbach

August 31, 2020 16:00 - 14 minutes - 9.76 MB

In this episode, Lindsey interviews her step-son, Bode Ringenbach, about the trials, tribulations, and excitement of the athletic recruiting process. 

Student Perspectives: Equity, and Social Justice in the College Search

June 16, 2020 18:00 - 23 minutes - 16 MB

In this episode, Lindsey talks with rising high school seniors about their involvement in the Black Lives Matter movement and how issues of equity and social justice are impacting their college search and application process. 

A Conversation with Members of the Class of 2020

May 18, 2020 13:00 - 19 minutes - 13.6 MB

In this episode, Lindsey interviews two of her students from the class of 2020 to hear their perspective on the pandemic, how it's affected their class, and how they feel about their future. 

Expert Discussion: Choosing a Compelling College Essay Topic

May 07, 2020 13:00 - 19 minutes - 13.1 MB

In this episode, the Advantage College Planning team, Lindsey Ringenbach, Jamie Pack, and Gina Wilner, discusses how to choose a compelling college essay topic.

COVID-19 & College Admissions with Undergraduate Admission Director at NC State University

April 20, 2020 19:00 - 15 minutes - 10.8 MB

In this episode, Lindsey interviews Ronnie Chalmers, Director of Strategic Initiatives at NC State University to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the college admission process for the class of 2021. 

Earning Effective Letters of Recommendation

March 27, 2020 19:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MB

In this episode, Lindsey talks with Kevin Flinn, an English teacher from Ravenscroft School in Raleigh, NC. They discuss how to earn an effective letter of recommendation and offer tips about who to choose and how to appropriately teachers and ask for letters of recommendation. 

Making a Final College Decision: An interview with Dr. Dave Meredith

March 06, 2020 16:00 - 29 minutes - 20.4 MB

In this episode, Lindsey Ringenbach interviews Dr. Dave Meredith, Interim Vice President of Enrollment and Student Life at Union College, about what to consider before submitting an enrollment deposit. Lindsey and Dave discuss assessing academic, social, and financial fit when making the final college decision. 

Keys to Course Selection: Interview with UNC Chapel Hill

February 20, 2020 15:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

In this episode, Lindsey Ringenbach interviews Jennifer Kretchmar and Jared Rosenberg from UNC Chapel Hill admissions to talk about all things related to high school course planning and selection.