FREE RESOURCE: Want personalized help with your application strategy? Book a free 1:1 call with one of our Former Admissions Officers here: CLICK HERE. RISING SENIORS: This is your last shot to get everything in place for college apps. Our Application Counseling Program helps you stay on track, craft a standout application, and improve your chances of getting into a Top 10 school, by up to 7x: https://hubs.la/Q03BtBZ50 From ultra-competitive majors like Computer Science to the explosion of AI-generated essays, the game is changing fast, and top colleges are responding. Should you rethink your major? How are elite schools adapting to the rise of AI? And most importantly: how can you stand out in the most competitive applicant pool yet? We’re breaking it all down with real data, insider insights, and a proven strategy that has helped thousands of students get into top schools. Watch until the end. This could change the way you approach your college apps. --- Register for our upcoming webinars. We also offer tons of free resources on our website/blog.  Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Need help with your college applications? Set up a complimentary strategy call with our team of admission experts: CLICK HERE. Meet Brendan, one of our standout students at InGenius Prep. This fall, he’s off to Duke University to study biology and medicine. But what truly set Brendan apart wasn’t just his impressive accomplishments. It was the self-awareness, consistency, and personal growth he showed throughout the application process. With the guidance of our expert counselors, Brendan built a compelling, authentic narrative that highlighted who he is beyond the resume. Take a closer look at Brendan’s high school journey, from his impactful internship to meaningful volunteer work and leadership activities. You'll see how each experience helped shape his application persona and how our team helped him tie it all together into a compelling, authentic story. --- Register for our upcoming webinars. We also offer tons of free resources on our website/blog.  Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Need help with your college applications? Set up a complimentary strategy call with our team of admission experts: CLICK HERE.  Is your student a fit for Caltech? Here’s what admissions really want. We spoke with someone who’s been inside the Caltech admissions room, and they revealed what really catches the attention of decision-makers at one of the world’s most rigorous STEM universities. In this episode, you'll get clear, actionable insights on: What Caltech looks for beyond perfect GPAs and test scores How their academic culture compares to schools like MIT What makes a standout Caltech personal statement Why intellectual curiosity matters more than big words or technical jargon What “enough” STEM experience actually means (hint: it’s about depth, not quantity) Whether your student is starting their college application journey or preparing to apply this fall, this video will give you a clearer picture of what it takes to compete at the highest level. Listen now and help your teen gain an edge in STEM college admissions! --- Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Need help from the best UK university admissions consultants? Set up a complimentary strategy call: CLICK HERE.  With U.S. immigration and education policies changing, many students and families are looking to the UK for their college journey. But UK admissions are quite different from the U.S.—from the application process to student life. In this episode, Harry Sherratt, Senior Managing Director, Asia-Pacific & Director of UK Services at InGenius Prep, breaks down: Key differences between UK and U.S. university applications How to write the UCAS personal statement and what top UK universities really want Choosing the right UK university beyond rankings and location Post-graduation opportunities in the UK and beyond Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to apply, this episode will help you navigate the UK admissions landscape with confidence. Subscribe and stay tuned for Part 2, where we explore admissions in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Australia! --- Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  What makes a college essay stand out at top schools like Harvard, Stanford, or Yale? In this episode, we sit down with Dave Marcus, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, bestselling author of Acceptance, and former high school teacher, to unpack the art of storytelling in college applications. Dave shares tips he’s used to help CEOs, students, and professionals tell their stories with clarity and heart. Perfect for students, parents, and counselors guiding the college application process. --- Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  From prescreen recordings and performance auditions to professor connections and portfolio prep, the music admissions process is uniquely challenging. In this episode, we sit down with the experts from Inside Music Schools to unpack everything you need to know about getting into top conservatories and university music programs. Whether you're aiming for Juilliard, Berklee, or a strong music program within a larger university, this conversation is packed with advice to help you stand out. --- Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

We dive into the Trump Administration’s attempt to revoke Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification and explore what this means for international students around the world. Additionally, we will break down the legal and political background behind this controversial move and provide honest, empathetic insights for students and families caught in the middle. Whether you’re just starting your college journey, in the middle of your degree, or applying now, this episode is designed to keep you informed about your next steps. --- Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Today’s students are juggling intense academics, nonstop social media, and AI tools reshaping how they learn. In this episode, we dive into: The pressure to excel academically, socially, and online How social media and constant notifications are affecting focus and mental health Why skills like time management and emotional regulation are essential for coping with stress The rise of AI in education: Is it helping or making things worse? Plus, we’ll share practical tips on how you, as a parent, can help your teen feel balanced, confident, and more in control. 📖 Read the Pew Research article on the pressures teens are facing today: https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2025/03/13/pressures-teens-are-facing/ --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

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.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at 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.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at 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.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at 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.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at 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.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Getting ready for college interviews? As competition increases, a strong interview can set you apart in the admissions process. In this episode, we speak with a Former Carnegie Mellon Admissions Director to provide expert insights on how students can confidently navigate their interviews and improve their chances of acceptance. Key takeaways for parents & students: The most common (and unexpected) interview questions What admissions officers really look for in a candidate Biggest mistakes to avoid—and how to make a lasting impression Put their best foot forward. Listen now! --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

In this episode, former admissions officers from Johns Hopkins, Yale, and Harvard Law share their honest feedback on real Common Apps from students who applied to Yale, Dartmouth, and Johns Hopkins. Discover what makes an application stand out—and what’s missing! Gain insights into the strengths and weaknesses they’ve observed, plus how domestic and international applications differ in the admissions process.You’ll get firsthand insider feedback on the strengths and weaknesses they've seen in these applications, plus hear how the admissions process differs for domestic vs. international applicants. Tune in for some eye-opening insights you won’t want to miss! FOLLOW ALONG with our experts by clicking the links below as they walk through each Common App, giving you real-time insights into what works and what doesn’t! Yale application Dartmouth application Johns Hopkins application You can now watch us in video on YouTube and Spotify as well!  --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

🎙️ Episode Overview In this week's episode, we’re excited to have two Former Admissions Officers from Johns Hopkins and Yale join us for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at a real student’s Common App profile. They break down the activities list and personal essay, sharing what works, what doesn’t, and how the two pieces come together to tell a compelling story. Want to know how to make your student's application shine? Tune in to see what admissions officers really look for—and what can make or break your chances. For those of you eager to dive deeper and see the actual student's activities list and personal essay, we highly recommend watching the video version on Spotify here. --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

🎙️ Episode OverviewWe’re thrilled to bring you a brand-new episode of our podcast, packed with expert advice on the college admissions process that you won’t want to miss—especially if you have a high schooler in the middle of applying! This week, we sit down with three former admissions officers from Harvard, the University of Chicago, and the University of Pennsylvania to answer some of the most pressing, real-world college admissions questions straight from Reddit. These are the types of personal and thought-provoking questions that every student (and parent!) wants answers to, and we’re diving deep into them with our expert panel. In this episode, you’ll hear insights on: 🎓 The "Competition of Suffering": Why students often feel the pressure to write about the "worst thing" that’s ever happened to them in their college essays—and how to approach this tricky topic without falling into the trap. 🤖 Using ChatGPT in College Essays: Can admissions officers tell if a student used tools like ChatGPT? We’ll unpack what truly matters when it comes to writing authentic college essays and how to stand out in your application. 🔍 Behind-the-Scenes of College Admissions: Hear from our team of former admissions officers about their experiences reviewing applications and what they wish they had studied in college (if it were free!). Get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what happens in the admissions process at top-tier universities. Whether your student is just beginning their college journey or deep into application season, this episode is packed with valuable insider knowledge and actionable tips that both students and parents will find incredibly helpful. --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Are you ready to uncover the unique benefits of liberal arts colleges and help your student find their perfect fit? In this episode, Krista, a seasoned admissions expert, will guide you and your student through aligning school choices with both academic and personal goals, ensuring your student is set up for success. Here's what you'll learn: How to research liberal arts colleges to find your best-fit options The importance of aligning your academic and personal goals with your school choices Shifting your mindset from “Will I get in?” to “How can I shape myself as an ideal candidate?” Listen to the episode for more practical tips to help you and your student navigate the college journey with confidence! --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Are you ready to break free from the traditional path and take your future into your own hands? Today, we’re talking gap years and how they can completely reshape your college application (and your life). The Admissions Advantage–Former Dartmouth admissions officer shares how a gap year can: Demonstrate leadership, maturity, and initiative to college admissions teams Help students stand out in a competitive applicant pool What Makes a Gap Year Transformative–Jaein Seo, Director of Global Higher Ed Relationships at Baret Scholars, explains: How students gain life-changing experiences by immersing in new cultures The value of collaborating with mentors and industry leaders The impact of leading real-world projects and building critical skills If you and your student have ever considered taking a year to pause, explore, and grow, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how a gap year can be the best investment in their future. For more information on Baret Scholars and its gap year program, visit their website and and keep up with their current cohort's travel updates on Instagram. --- To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

Is your student interested in college athletic recruitment? Don’t miss our latest podcast episode, where we dive deep into the college sailing recruitment process! In partnership with US Sailing, we bring you expert insights from experienced professionals, including how to connect with coaches, meet recruitment deadlines, secure athletic scholarships, and prepare for tryouts and team dynamics. Tune in now for expert advice that will help your student navigate the college sailing recruitment process and set sail for success! To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email jilian.yong@ingeniusprep.com. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.