April 2025

#171 Behind the Scenes: What Makes a College Application Fall Flat with Amanda Leszczuk Transcript

THIS IS AN AUTOMATED TRANSCRIPT… PLEASE FORGIVE THE TYPOS & GRAMMAR! xo-Lisa.   Lisa Marker Robbins  00:46 Do you wonder what really happens when your teens college application lands on an admissions reader’s desk? Understanding what makes an application truly stand out can feel like unlocking a secret code, especially when your teen’s future seems […]

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#171 Behind the Scenes: What Makes a College Application Fall Flat with Amanda Leszczuk

In this episode, Lisa and Amanda discuss: A holistic admissions review that looks beyond grades and test scores Writing authentic, personal essays that reflect a student’s true identity Strategically crafting supplemental essays to show university fit and motivation Preparing for campus visits to gather insights for stronger applications Key Takeaways:  Application readers carefully evaluate every

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#170 AI and College Essays: What Families Need to Know with Susan Knoppow

In this episode, Lisa and Susan discuss: How AI impacts the essay-writing process for students. Mistaken beliefs about what makes a strong application essay Crafting essays that truly reflect a student’s voice and experiences Helpful strategies and tools that can assist in writing a strong college essay Key Takeaways:  AI should not be used to

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#170 AI and College Essays: What Families Need to Know with Susan Knoppow Transcript

THIS IS AN AUTOMATED TRANSCRIPT… PLEASE FORGIVE THE TYPOS & GRAMMAR! xo-Lisa. Lisa Marker Robbins  00:57 with college application season approaching, many parents and students are wondering about AI tools in college essays. Can your teen use AI to help them with their college application essays? Should they the answers might surprise you in this

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#169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark Transcript

THIS IS AN AUTOMATED TRANSCRIPT… PLEASE FORGIVE THE TYPOS & GRAMMAR! xo-Lisa. Lisa Marker Robbins  00:48 Are you confused about how your teens choice of major affects their college admission chances? Many colleges evaluate applicants against their intended major, even when they don’t directly admit to that program, this hidden process can dramatically impact your

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#169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark

In this episode, Lisa and Rick discuss: How a student’s choice of future intended major impacts their college admissions chances The role of holistic review in determining “Fit To Major” (FTM) The challenges students face when trying to change majors after admission Why flexibility is essential in the college application process Key Takeaways:  Colleges often

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Find College Supplemental Essays Early: Your Teen’s Secret Advantage

Discover what colleges will ask your teen YEARS before they need to write their essays. Is your college-bound teen prepared for the important supplemental essays that can strengthen their applications? Many families don’t realize that these essay prompts are available long before senior year—and knowing them early gives your student a significant advantage. Why This

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#168 How to Identify Student-Centered Colleges: Key Insights with Elliot Felix

In this episode, Lisa and Elliot discuss: How to identify truly student-centered colleges beyond marketing claims The impact of well-connected campus services on student success Why experiential learning is essential for career readiness The hidden challenges of higher education that students and families should know Key Takeaways:  Colleges with one-stop shops simplify administrative challenges by

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#168 How to Identify Student-Centered Colleges: Key Insights with Elliot Felix Transcript

THIS IS AN AUTOMATED TRANSCRIPT… PLEASE FORGIVE THE TYPOS & GRAMMAR! xo-Lisa. Lisa Marker Robbins  00:56 Are you worried about how your team will navigate the complexities of college life once they leave home, understanding what makes a college truly student centered might be the key to ensuring your teen not only survives but thrives

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