#156 Unlock What College Admissions Officers Want with Dr. John Durante

Flourish Coaching

Jan 7, 2025

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. John discuss:

Importance of understanding college admissions processes, including test-optional policies and supplemental essays
Role of financial considerations in determining college fit and navigating institutional aid policies
Strategies for demonstrating interest and aligning applications with college-specific priorities
Insights into creating balanced college lists to reduce stress and improve outcomes for families

Key Takeaways:

Using tools like the Common Data Set and Net Price Calculator provides crucial data about admissions rates, financial aid, and institutional priorities, enabling more informed decision-making.
Demonstrating interest, even for colleges that don’t officially track it, strengthens applications by improving supplemental essays and showing alignment with institutional missions and values.
Need-blind versus need-aware admissions can significantly influence outcomes; families should discuss financial constraints early and utilize FAFSA and CSS Profile for financial planning.
Many highly competitive schools have institutional priorities that may be beyond an applicant’s control, such as geographic diversity or specific skill sets, emphasizing the need for balanced college lists.

“Don’t be afraid to ask the questions, because I always say, every question that you don’t ask—frankly, the answer is no, or you’re not going to find out any information. So, you might as well ask the questions.” – Dr. John Durante

About Dr. John Durante:

Dr. John Durante has dedicated over 30 years to education as both a teacher and administrator. Since 2010, he has served as the principal of Syosset High School, playing a key role in its recognition as one of the top high schools in the country. After helping his own daughters navigate their college journeys, he launched The College Admissions Process Podcast in 2022, which has become a valuable resource for students, parents, and college counselors.

Episode References:

Dr. Durante’s new book “Straight from the Admissions Office“: https://a.co/d/gHZe0wl
Book Giveaway: flourishcoachingco.com/colleges (Enter before January 19)
The College Admissions Process Podcast https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/
The previous episode with Dr. John Durante: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/141
How to Find the Common Data Set for Colleges: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/blog/demonstrated-interest-how-to-find-it-on-the-common-data-set/
Episode on Demonstrated Interest: https://flouriscoachingco.com/052
Episode on Institutional Priorities: https://flourishcoachingco.com/123

Get Lisa’s Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career…(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

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