This week, Tokyo Academics' Lead Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin brings her expert insights to students navigating Early Action applications for 2024. With years of experience in college admissions, Jennifer explains the key advantages of applying Early Action, including how it can boost your chances at top schools and offer early access to s…

This week, Tokyo Academics' lead admissions consultant Jennifer Liepin chats with Raisa Alam, a published research scholar and college admissions expert. With experience in prestigious research competitions, mental health advocacy, and teaching, Raisa shares expert insights on building a standout research portfolio, prioritizing resilience, and usi…

This week, Tokyo Academics Lead Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin talks about the challenges students face during the college admissions process, with a particular focus on writing the Common App essay. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of avoiding redundancy in essays, how to showcase multiple facets of one’s identity, and what admissions off…

This week, Tokyo Academics' Lead Admissions Consultant, Jennifer Liepin, dives into the art of securing standout letters of recommendation. Discover why these letters matter more than ever and learn actionable tips on how to build authentic relationships with teachers and mentors. Whether you're just starting high school or prepping your college ap…

Join Stacey and Becca as they offer listeners insight as to what applicants can expect upon signing up for an expert assessment of their college essay draft(s) and discuss their methods for constructively delivering feedback to young writers. Sign up for your college essay assessment: https://www.collegeessayadvisors.com/one-on-one-advising/assessm…

This week, Tokyo Academics Lead Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin brings her expert insights to students aspiring to pursue a business degree in 2024. Drawing on her extensive experience in college admissions, Jennifer breaks down the key strategies to strengthen your application, from selecting the right schools to crafting compelling essays. …

Join Stacey and Becca as they walk you through one of their favorite ways of brainstorming for the personal statement: the object exercise! Take a look around your room and identify a few objects that are near and dear to you, then reflect on what they represent to you or remind you of. You may just identify a conduit to an impactful college essay …

In this episode of the "Accepted" podcast, seasoned Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin sits down with Tokyo Academics Academic Manager Kaitlyn Cyprian to discuss the latest developments in standardized testing. This conversation explores recent discoveries about the Digital SAT, including how it differs from the traditional format and what stude…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss strategies for writing essays about hardship that emphasize positive qualities that will empower you to succeed in higher education, rather than relying on common platitudes. They also touch on the pressure many marginalized students feel to “sell their pain” by sharing traumatic stories in their college essays…

Join Stacey and Becca as they review common Activity Essay prompts, discuss the purpose of the essay within the scope of the larger application, offer guidance on which of your activities to expand upon, and flag common pitfalls to sidestep. Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MaLsIu1vdE https://www.youtube.com/watch?…

In this episode of the "Accepted" podcast, Tokyo Academics' Lead Admissions Consultant, Jennifer Liepin, delves into the 2024 early college admissions landscape. Jennifer explores the nuances of Early Action and Early Decision applications, offering valuable insights into the benefits and potential drawbacks of each option. She provides expert guid…

Join Stacey and Becca as they weigh the risks and benefits of writing about religion, faith, and politics in your college essay. Can applicants address potentially controversial topics without polarizing admissions? How should their school lists factor into the decision? Listen to get some expert advice from the people behind College Essay Advisors…

In this episode of the "Accepted" podcast, Tokyo Academics Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin sits down with Fred Guo, a current student at the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business. They delve into the intricacies of navigating the undergraduate business school curriculum, offering insights on choosing the right major and fin…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the risks that accompany reading too many college essay examples and ways students and parents alike can best set themselves up for success before starting the college essay writing process. Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MaLsIu1vdE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6VxiKDeqQc…

This week, we continue our conversation with Kirsten Sharett, a seasoned Admissions Consulting professional and former Princeton Admissions Advisor. In this episode, we discuss essay prompts in response to the Supreme Court decision on affirmative action, delve into the complex topic of identity, and offer valuable insights on how to approach these…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the dangers of writing about someone else in your college essay and what you can do to make sure the spotlight shines on you (your strengths, your character, your candidacy)! Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MaLsIu1vdE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6VxiKDeqQc Work one-on-one…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the challenges of writing about one of the most common college essay topics: summer camp. Is it possible to write about camp while still differentiating yourself from other applicants with similar stories? Learn how this common experience can be a featured player in your story without taking center stage. Watch…

This week, join Tokyo Academics Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin as she engages in an insightful discussion with Kirsten Sharett, a seasoned Admissions Consulting professional and former Princeton Admissions Advisor. Kirsten specializes in story-driven coaching, helping students create compelling narratives that shine in their college applicat…

This week, Tokyo Academics Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin sits down with Claire Gerety-Mott, a professional writer and director who specializes in film school admissions. A graduate of Columbia University Film School, Claire brings a wealth of knowledge from both the film industry and film education. In this episode, she'll share invaluable …

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the role of the Additional Information Essay in the college application. They cover the purpose of this text box and the kinds of circumstances that warrant an essay, as well as the dangers of submitting a superfluous essay. Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MaLsIu1vdE https://w…

Join Stacey and Becca as discuss whether to (and how to) write about mental illness in your college admissions essay. Read our Common App Prompt Guide: https://www.collegeessayadvisors.com/portfolio-items/2024-25-common-application-essay-prompts-guide/ Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MaLsIu1vdE https://www.youtube…

This week, Tokyo Academics Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin discusses the growing trend of direct admissions. In this episode, we explore the origins of this innovative practice, its operational mechanics, and the underlying motivations driving colleges to adopt it. Jennifer provides expert insights into how direct admissions can benefit both …

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the pros and cons of writing about neurodiversity in your college admissions essays. Whether you’re considering writing about your Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, learning differences, or ADHD, Stacey and Becca are here to offer some advice on how to write about your lived experience. Watch some of our YouT…

This week on the Accepted Podcast, Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin interviews Shaurya Baruah, a senior at the Peddie School who will be studying computer science at the University of Michigan this fall. Jennifer and Shaurya discuss the boarding school experience and share valuable lessons for high school students aiming to develop their inter…

Join Stacey and Becca as they talk all things twins! Distinguishing yourself from similarly qualified applicants is hard enough as it is, let alone someone who shares your DNA; luckily, Stacey and Becca have tips for twins (and triplets) writing college admissions essays that shine. Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=…

This week, Tokyo Academics Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin sits down with Eren Harris, an experienced former admissions consultant and the former Head of Admissions at PrepScholar. Eren, who holds a Bachelor's degree from Yale and a Master's degree from Harvard, is well-versed in the world of elite education. In this episode, Eren discusses t…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the infamous Diversity Essay. They cover creative approaches to writing about identity and whether there are any risks involved with writing about race, sexuality, gender, etc. in a post-affirmative action admissions landscape. Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MaLsIu1vdE https:…

In this extended episode, Tokyo Academics Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin sits down with Brandon Mack, a former Rice University Admissions Director and seasoned Non-Profit Professional. With a wealth of experience in higher education, advocacy, and private consulting, Brandon offers deep insights into the world of admissions officers. The dis…

This week, Jennifer shares key insights on the return of test-mandatory for many top-tier universities. We're diving deep into the research that's fueling this shift, exploring if standardized tests truly predict college success, especially for students from diverse backgrounds. We'll also explore what this means for the future of college applicati…

This week, we're joined by Jennifer Liepin, a seasoned admissions consultant with a passion for educational equity. With over 20 years of experience, Jennifer shares key insights from the recent admissions cycle, highlighting what makes students stand out to top-tier universities. Known for her success in guiding students to Ivy League and Top 20 s…

"How optional is optional?" has arguably become one of the most controversial questions in the admissions landscape with regards to standardized testing. However, recent data from MIT and a New York Times article both suggest that there may be some merit to top schools reintroducing some form of standardized testing as a requirement. This becomes a…

One of the most important parts of this podcast is the opportunity to respond to questions from students and parents. This week, Tyler responds to a student inquiry about seeking out impactful summer opportunities and discerning which options are going to provide the greatest outcomes for the investment of time. With the plethora of options comes a…

Advanced Placement examinations are one of many ways to demonstrate to colleges that you are academically ready for the rigor of their institution. The breadth and flexibility of the AP program means that it absolutely should be considered as part of any college application strategy, even if you are not attending a school that offers AP. However, w…

In this week's episode, Tyler sits down with Oxford alum and UK education specialist, Maggie. Together, they delve deep into the intricacies of UK university admissions, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to secure a place in one of these prestigious institutions. Whether you're a student who's dreaming of study…

It's the holiday season, which for many means an opportunity to give back. But for college admissions, are a few winter break community service hours going to be enough? In response to a listener question, Tyler spends some time talking about the importance of community impact, dismisses some myths about what counts as "meaningful" volunteer work, …

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Jason Cody Douglass as we delve into the world of the Yale Young Global Scholars program. Discover what makes this program a game-changer in the realm of summer educational opportunities, unraveling its essence, significance, and the qualities that define an ideal candidate. Dr. Douglass sheds light o…

It's that time of year. Kids are out of school for 2-3 weeks, and all parents seem to see is some combination of video games, hanging out with friends, and screen time. Winter break is certainly a period to take a breather from the intensity of fall, but it is also an essential time, without competing priorities, to really start planning your futur…

The UC application is due in just a few days! There are a lot of key differences between the UC application and the Common App, and with that comes a variety of ways to both make mistakes on and maximize your application. This week, Tyler offers some final advice on how to make sure your UC applications really shine, covering the UCs unique grading…

There’s no time to waste! Even though it is only November, many competitive summer programs have application deadlines coming up soon. Don’t let a missed deadline be the reason you can’t have a meaningful summer. This week, Tyler talks about the importance of starting your summer research early, and provides advice on how to filter and find the bes…

Note: This podcast was recorded on October 31st, 2023. Submissions have begun! If you've already done so, congratulations! You've passed one major milestone! For those of you who are still working away to get that essay just right or fix those activities, Tyler will share some final tips about ensuring a smooth submission. He will also talk a littl…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the 2023-24 Yale University supplemental essay prompts. Part 2 of 2! Access our 2023-24 Yale University Supplemental Essay Guide: https://www.collegeessayadvisors.com/supplemental-essay/yale-university-2023-24-supplemental-essay-prompt-guide/ Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ma…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the 2023-24 Yale University supplemental essay prompts. Part 1 of 2! Access our 2023-24 Yale University Supplemental Essay Guide: https://www.collegeessayadvisors.com/supplemental-essay/yale-university-2023-24-supplemental-essay-prompt-guide/ Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ma…

Does it really matter if I open that email? Will joining UCLA's Summer Institute increase my chances of getting in? Do I really have to tour a school to have a chance? Are schools really tracking all of this? There are many, many questions around the ambiguous metric of demonstrated interest and how that really affects your chances of getting into …

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss this summer's SCOTUS Ruling on Affirmative Action, the ramifications for students of color (and the education system as a whole), and provide guidance to applicants wondering how to (or whether to) use the written components of the application to offer admissions additional context regarding their background an…

The word "optional" is showing up a lot across college applications everywhere. Whether it be test scores, resumes, additional recommenders, or even the supplemental essays themselves, choice (or the illusion of it) is more prominent than ever. What does this all mean? Is there a disadvantage to not filling out absolutely everything? Why are they g…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the final two 2023-24 Harvard University supplemental essay prompts that applicants must respond to in 200 words or fewer. Access our 2023-24 Harvard University Supplemental Essay Guide: https://www.collegeessayadvisors.com/supplemental-essay/harvard-university-2023-24-supplemental-essay-prompt-guide/ Watch som…

There are a lot of misconceptions out there about how to best strategize around a college application. The beliefs range from the reasonable - "Test optional can't possibly really mean optional, can it?" - to the extreme - "Should I buy a house in Sacramento so my child is considered in state for UC Berkeley?" As part of an ongoing series, Tyler wi…

Join Stacey and Becca as they discuss the first three (out of five) 2023-24 Harvard University supplemental essay prompts that applicants must respond to in 200 words or fewer. Access our 2023-24 Harvard University Supplemental Essay Guide: https://www.collegeessayadvisors.com/supplemental-essay/harvard-university-2023-24-supplemental-essay-prompt-…

As we get closer to the first round of application deadlines, Tyler takes some time to review the differences between Early Decision, Early Action, Restrictive Early Action, and any other terms that may affect your overall college list building and application strategy. As more schools lean into accepting more students Early Decision, what does tha…

Join Stacey and Becca as they share some of their favorite brainstorming exercises to get the ideas flowing. Part 2 of 2! Watch some of our YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MaLsIu1vdE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6VxiKDeqQc Work one-on-one with an Advisor from our team: https://www.collegeessayadvisors.com/one-on-one-advising/ F…