In part 2 of a 3-part series, Tokyo Academics Lead Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin continues an in-depth breakdown of the UC application, diving into the infamous Personal Insight Questions (PIQs). Jennifer provides actionable insights and examples to help you answer these questions effectively, whether you’re highlighting academic achievements, leadership, or unique personal experiences. With guidance on crafting responses that resonate, she offers strategies to make your application s...

In part 1 of a 3-part series, Tokyo Academics Lead Admissions Consultant Jennifer Liepin breaks down the ins and outs of the UC application, guiding students through each section to ensure they’re putting their best foot forward. Jennifer shares strategies on how to approach the Personal Insight Questions, organize your academic and extracurricular highlights, and avoid common pitfalls. She also discusses the popularity rankings of each UC campus, giving insights on how these preferences migh...

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 scholarships. She also breaks down the differences between Early Action, Restrictive Early Action, and Early Decision, helping you determine which p...

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 using unique experiences to boost college applications. Whether you’re new to research or looking to strengthen your profile, tune in for practical ti...

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 officers look for in personal statements. She provides practical tips for crafting a compelling narrative that stands out, while also advising on the ...

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 applications, these insights will help you understand what makes a compelling recommendation and how to position yourself for success. Tune in to unl...

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. She also discusses emerging trends in business education, how to leverage internships and extracurriculars to stand out, and what top programs are ...

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 students need to know to prepare effectively. Additionally, Kaitlyn and Jennifer discuss the latest changes to the ACT, offering insights into how these...

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 guidance on making the right choice for your academic goals, sharing tips on how to navigate this crucial stage of the college admissions process. Whet...

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 finding your path in the dynamic world of business. Whether you're an aspiring business student or just curious about the field, this conversation pro...

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 challenging prompts. Kirsten shares her expert advice on crafting compelling essays that reflect your unique story while navigating the evolving l...

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 applications. In this episode, Kirsten shares her valuable insights into the inner workings of the admissions office and provides a comprehensive framework...

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 insights on what it takes to succeed in film school applications, how to stand out in a competitive field, and her personal experiences navigating ...

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 students and institutions, shedding light on the potential implications for the future of higher education. Whether you're a student, parent, or ed...

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 interests and passions over the course of their high school career. Shaurya's insights offer a glimpse into the current admissions landscape and exempli...

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 the importance of authenticity and building a personal narrative that truly represents who you are as a student. By sharing case studies of outstand...

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 discussion covers critical topics such as fly-in programs, portfolio reviews, and invaluable advice for students aspiring to apply to Rice University,...

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 applications. Will test scores reign supreme again, or will holistic admissions practices find a new balance? Join free webinars at www.tokyoacademics....

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 schools, Jennifer offers a glimpse into her effective strategies and the trends she's observed. Whether you're aiming for a top college or seeking...

"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 an even more important talking point as many schools will formally re-evaluate their testing policy in 2025. This week, Tyler dives into that...

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 an increased number of opportunities that sound enticing but offer very little in terms of meaningful growth and experience. We talk about some ways...

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, with those advantages come a series of misconceptions around how useful these exams are. This week, Tyler breaks down the AP Exams and talks through...

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 studying in the historic halls of Oxford or Cambridge, or you're simply wondering what else is out there beyond schools in the U.S., this episode is for...