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College Planning SimplifiedHow Can Students Maximize Their Summer for College Success?Send us a textIn 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, creating an activity list, and reflecting on personal interests and achievements. The episode provides practical advice for students and parents on how to use the summer effectively to enhance college applications.00:00 Introduction and Summer Excitement2025-04-2824 minCollege Planning SimplifiedApplying to UNC-Chapel Hill: Insights from the Admissions OfficeSend us a textIn 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 about geographic quotas, intended majors, and the influence of extracurriculars on admissions. Jared also offers advice on writing impactful essays and managing the competitive nature of college admissions. This episode is packed with valuable information for prospective students and families navigating the...2025-03-2438 minCollege Planning SimplifiedFrom High School to Med School: How to Start Preparing NowSend us a textIn 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 selecting an undergraduate institution. 00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:47 High School Reflections and Advice01:48 Decisiveness and Career Choices05:35 Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars08:22 Gaining Relevant Experience11:36 College S...2025-02-2426 minCollege Planning SimplifiedJunior Year Milestones: Staying on Track for College SuccessSend us a textIn 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 for obtaining impactful letters of recommendation and narrowing down college choices based on fit! 00:00 Introduction to College Planning Simplified00:09 Setting Goals for Juniors01:20 Course Selection and Rigor08:27 Understanding Testing Timelines12:37 Campus Visits and C...2025-01-2732 minCollege Planning SimplifiedWhy Should You Consider Ole Miss for College?Send us a textIn 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 sense of community and supportive transition programs to standout academics like the Patterson School of Accountancy and the Honors College.2024-11-2529 minCollege Planning SimplifiedWhat College-Bound Athletes Need to Know About RecruitingSend us a textIn 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 curious about the process, this episode offers practical advice to help guide athletes through their journey from high school to college competition.2024-10-2834 minCollege Planning SimplifiedInnovation, Business & the Honors College at UNC CharlotteSend us a textIn 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.2024-09-2431 minCollege Planning SimplifiedHow Parents Can Help With College ApplicationsSend us a textIn 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.pdfWho is a Contributor?: https://studentaid.gov/sites/default/files/is-my-parent-a-contributor.jpg 2024-08-2606 minCollege Planning SimplifiedCollege Application Timeline: What You Need to Work on Now!Send us a textIn 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!2024-07-2639 minCollege Planning SimplifiedWhat's The Admissions Process At The University of Georgia?Send us a textIn 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.2024-06-2427 minCollege Planning SimplifiedCollege Planning Tips from a High School CounselorSend us a textIn 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.2024-05-2829 minCollege Planning SimplifiedUnderstanding College AffordabilitySend us a textIn 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 aid.2024-04-2940 minCollege Planning SimplifiedHow to Choose a College MajorSend us a textIn 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.2024-03-2538 minCollege Planning SimplifiedWhat Sets Elon University Apart? Discovering Its Unique QualitiesSend us a textIn 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.2024-02-2735 minCollege Planning SimplifiedI've Been Denied! Now What?Send us a textIn 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. 2024-01-2924 minCollege Planning SimplifiedReady for the New SAT Format? Evolution of Standardized TestingSend us a textJoin 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 with ArborBridge and check out the Digital SAT Overview! 🔗: https://www.arborbridge.com/contact-us/ 2023-12-0426 minCollege Planning SimplifiedChatGpt and Admissions Essays: AI Thoughts with Georgia TechSend us a textIn 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 admissions and how the essay process might evolve in the future.After y...2023-10-2434 minCollege Planning SimplifiedSelective Admissions, How Tough Is It Really?Send us a textIn 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.2023-09-2736 minCollege Planning Simplified3 Common Mistakes in Your College ApplicationSend us a textIn 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.2023-08-2904 minCollege Planning SimplifiedExploring Campus: Insider Tips for College Tours and Open HousesSend us a textIn 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.2023-07-2531 minCollege Planning SimplifiedHow Are Your Grades Evaluated at Clemson University?Send us a textIn 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.2023-06-2623 minCollege Planning SimplifiedWhat Are The Trends in College Admissions?Send us a textIn 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.2023-05-2324 minCollege Planning SimplifiedWhat is Reviewed in Your College Application?Send us a textIn 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! 2023-04-2426 minCollege Planning SimplifiedApplying Undecided vs Choosing a Major at NC StateSend us a textIn 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.2023-03-2819 minCollege Planning SimplifiedHow to Demonstrate Interest: A Simple Action Can Influence Your Admission DecisionSend us a textOn 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!2023-02-1733 minCollege Planning SimplifiedI've Been Deferred, Help!Send us a textOn 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.2023-01-2625 minCollege Planning SimplifiedHonors College Conversation East Carolina UniversitySend us a textIn 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.2022-11-0936 minCollege Planning SimplifiedBuilding a College ListSend us a textOn 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.2022-09-2824 minCollege Planning SimplifiedMindful Admissions with author Laurén CarterSend us a textIn 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. 2022-09-0636 minCollege Planning SimplifiedApplication Countdown: 5 Action Items for Rising SeniorsSend us a textIn 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! 2022-08-0704 minCollege Planning SimplifiedFinancial Aid & Affordability with Jeff LevySend us a textOn 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.2022-07-2747 minCollege Planning SimplifiedAdmission Advice from the University of RichmondSend us a textIn 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. 2022-06-3023 minCollege Planning SimplifiedWhat Makes a Standout College Essay?Send us a textIn 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.2022-06-0733 minCollege Planning SimplifiedThe New Digital SAT: What You Need To Know!Send us a textThe 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! 2022-05-2722 minCollege Planning SimplifiedCollege Application Deadline Types: How Do I Choose Which is Right for ME?Send us a textIn 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.2022-04-2830 minCollege Planning SimplifiedFrom 8th Grade to 9th Grade: Setting Your Student Up for High School SuccessSend us a textIn 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!2022-03-2822 minCollege Planning SimplifiedNavigating the Common Application Activity ListSend us a textIn 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. 2021-06-1118 minCollege Planning SimplifiedVolunteer Opportunities During COVIDSend us a textLindsey 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. 2021-02-0308 minCollege Planning SimplifiedDeferred? What does that mean?Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey Ringenbach and colleague, Jamie Pack, discuss what to do if your application for admission was deferred. 2021-01-2512 minCollege Planning SimplifiedSetting and Achieving Your Goals in 2021Send us a textIn 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. 2021-01-0818 minCollege Planning SimplifiedHow Do Selective Colleges Review High School Transcripts?Send us a textIn 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. 2020-12-0819 minCollege Planning SimplifiedInterview with Recruited Swimmer, Bode RingenbachSend us a textIn this episode, Lindsey interviews her step-son, Bode Ringenbach, about the trials, tribulations, and excitement of the athletic recruiting process. 2020-08-3114 minCollege Planning SimplifiedStudent Perspectives: Equity, and Social Justice in the College SearchSend us a textIn 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. 2020-06-1623 minCollege Planning SimplifiedA Conversation with Members of the Class of 2020Send us a textIn 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. 2020-05-1819 minCollege Planning SimplifiedExpert Discussion: Choosing a Compelling College Essay TopicSend us a textIn this episode, the Advantage College Planning team, Lindsey Ringenbach, Jamie Pack, and Gina Wilner, discusses how to choose a compelling college essay topic.2020-05-0719 minCollege Planning SimplifiedCOVID-19 & College Admissions with Undergraduate Admission Director at NC State UniversitySend us a textIn 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. 2020-04-2015 minCollege Planning SimplifiedEarning Effective Letters of RecommendationSend us a textIn 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. 2020-03-2724 minCollege Planning SimplifiedMaking a Final College Decision: An interview with Dr. Dave MeredithSend us a textIn 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. 2020-03-0629 minCollege Planning SimplifiedKeys to Course Selection: Interview with UNC Chapel HillSend us a textIn 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.2020-02-2024 min