Are you an aspiring computer science major looking to stand out? On today’s episode, Brian Skinner, founder of Breakout Mentors, walks us through how to best prepare for USACO, one of the most prestigious coding competitions, and how to leverage strong coding skills to craft unique signature projects for college applications. Whether you're a novice coder or a seasoned competitor, this episode will help you gain that competitive edge in the world of coding competitions and college...

Waitlisted from your dream school? Struggling with no acceptance offers? Or are you split between multiple acceptances? On today’s episode, Krista Pickett, a Former Admissions Officer from Williams, discusses first some strategies for students to effectively navigate being waitlisted. From understanding the significance of remaining active on the waitlist to crafting compelling letters of continued interest, Krista offers advice for students vying for coveted spots at their dream schools....

Thinking about embellishing your extracurriculars? Wondering if your music teacher is the best person to ask for a letter of recommendation? Running behind in the college application process? On today’s episode, our Former Admissions Officers answer these questions and more in this special Q&A segment. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email [email protected]. To learn more about...

With an admit rate of 14.57%, how did we help our student, Maggie, get accepted into Columbia University, her top-choice school? On today’s episode, Kat Jennings, a Former Admissions Officer from NYU, gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how Maggie beat the odds during the Early Decision round this year. From creating a unique Application Persona to strategically enhancing her extracurriculars to fit her physics major, Kat shares valuable tips on how you can also secure that...

Do non-STEM students need research experience in their college applications? On today’s episode, Christopher Brown, our Director of Academic Mentorship, shares insider tips on how to create impactful research projects. From discussing how to present challenges to unraveling the criteria Admissions Officers seek in research projects, this episode will be your ultimate roadmap to crafting a standout research project that sets you apart from your competition in your college application. To set...

How do you capture an Admissions Officer’s attention through your college essays? On today’s episode, Nivanthi Karunaratne, a Graduate Coach at InGenius Prep, shares her personal journey of self-discovery through music and how it has influenced her approach in helping students find their voice in their college essays. From asking the right questions to discussing the power of introspection in the essay-writing process, Nivanthi shares valuable tips on how to write stellar college application...

How do you convince colleges that you are exactly what they are looking for? On today’s episode, Drew Hazen, a Former Admissions Officer from Northwestern, unveils effective strategies to stand out among a highly competitive pool of accomplished peers. From decoding the holistic review process to providing tips on how to craft a standout application, Drew covers the importance of a clear narrative, the challenge of showcasing personality in applications, and tips for tackling school-specific...

How do students stand out in popular STEM clubs, like robotics? On today’s episode, Stacy Wells Shea, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Rochester, reveals what key qualities set apart standout STEM-related extracurricular activities. From engaging in unique, atypical projects to learning how to make a lasting impact within clubs, Stacy shares valuable insights on how STEM students can distinguish themselves in the competitive college admissions process. Whether you are a...

Wondering when to reach out to coaches or how to stand out in the recruitment process as a fencer? On today's episode, Kevin Dupont, a Former Admissions Officer from Cornell, sheds light on the nuances of the fencing recruitment process and addresses key questions from students - such as when to reach out to coaches, and how to craft compelling interest letters and fencing resumes. Whether you're a seasoned high school fencer or just starting, this episode will set you on the right path to...

Are you applying to colleges this year? Or is your New Year's Resolution to get ahead with your college applications? If so, you're in the right place! On today's episode, our Former Admissions Officers shared their best advice for students gearing up for the college application process in the new year. From sharing the key to crafting unique applications to discussing how to navigate the challenges of feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork and college applications, this episode will help you...

Want to learn our secrets to how we helped 11 students get admitted to MIT? On today’s episode, Krista Pickett, a Former Admissions Officer from Williams, reveals what it takes to create an outstanding profile that captivates admission committees. From breaking down the intricacies of the application process to offering actionable tips on balancing academic achievements, extracurricular involvements, and personal narratives, Krista shares valuable insights into navigating the complex terrain...

In college admissions, excellence alone doesn't guarantee acceptance. On today's episode, Marianna Irizarry, a Former Admissions Officer from Stanford, sheds light on the multifaceted qualities that make standout applicants. Drawing from a wealth of experience in law, education, and admissions, Marianna shares her insights on how to craft a strategic approach and cultivate diverse, authentic interests. From creating impactful volunteer work to leveraging a student's unique strengths, this...

The new Digital SAT presents hurdles and opportunities for students aiming for top scores. On today’s episode, Jake Adams, Director of Ingenious Test Prep, unveils the strategies essential for scoring in the top percentile. Whether it's understanding the new modular adaptive testing format or unlocking the secrets behind maximizing performance, this episode equips students with the tools needed to ace the Digital SAT. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our...

Should you use ChatGPT to write your personal statements?   On today's episode, Zak Harris, a Former Admissions Officer from Johns Hopkins, shares his strategies on how to stand out in college essays without the use of AI.   To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email [email protected]. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.  

What does it mean to be a computer science major in college?   On today's episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Elena Li, who went from being a computer science major at Cornell to landing a dream job as a software engineer at Amazon. From preparing for computer science internships to learning important soft skills to land coveted job positions, Elena reveals insider knowledge on what it takes to thrive as a successful computer science major.   To set up a complimentary strategy...

Struggling with how to create passion projects that stand out in college applications?   On today’s episode, Maya Gobert, Director of Student Innovation at InGenius Prep, reveals strategies on how to turn your interests into impactful projects that reflect your unique profiles, as well as some common misconceptions and successful project examples.   To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email...

What is a passion project and why are they so important in college applications? On today's episode, Evan Cudworth, a Former Admissions Officer from UChicago, shares his tips on how to create a passion project that stands out from the competition.   To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email [email protected]. To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.  

In the highly competitive world of college admissions, even the brightest students face unexpected challenges. On today’s episode, Nick Strohl, a Former Admissions Officer from Yale, reveals why even the best students with impeccable grades are unexpectedly rejected by their dream colleges. From crafting a balanced school list to strategically leveraging early decision and early action opportunities, this episode will help you successfully navigate the college admissions process and increase...

Discover the secrets to securing an acceptance letter from Ivy League schools with insider tips from Shan Lateef, a former InGenius Prep student. Learn how Shan not only earned the top score for his letter of recommendation but also skillfully combined his diverse passions into one cohesive college application. Whether your interests lie in neuroscience, music, or any other area, Shan's invaluable insights will guide you in crafting an application that truly highlights your unique strengths...

Want to learn how to effectively showcase your musical talents to stand out from the crowd?   On today's episode, Kathryn Scherer, Director of Undergraduate Services at InGenius Prep, uncovers her best strategies for using music to enhance your college application. Whether you are an aspiring music major or looking for ways to leverage your musical talent as a non-music major, this episode will show you how to turn your musical skills into a unique selling point in your application.   To set...

From showcasing a genuine passion for medicine to leveraging unique experiences and hobbies, Ryan Creps, a Former Admissions Officer from Brown, reveals his best strategies for making a lasting impression in pre-med applications.    To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic requests? Email [email protected]  To learn more about InGenius Prep, visit us at ingeniusprep.com.

What does leadership really mean to schools and how can students successfully prove these qualities in their college applications? On today’s episode, Maya Gobert, Director of Student Innovation at InGenius Prep, reveals strategies on where to start and the importance of framing leadership as the centerpiece of a college application. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Watch Maya’s previous webinar & register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic...

On today’s episode, we reveal strategies that help students stand out when applying to one of the most competitive majors – computer science. Natalia Ostrowski, a Former Admissions Officer from the University of Chicago, shares further insight into different programs, competitions, and application tips to create a well-rounded application as a computer science major. To set up a complimentary strategy call, CLICK HERE.  Register for our upcoming webinars. Questions, comments, or topic...

On today’s episode, we chat with Padya Paramita, an InGenius Prep Graduate Coach and our Digital Content Manager, and Vicky Rosenthal Madrid, our Assistant Director of Marketing. We discuss our first three case studies for the 2022-23 cycle of students accepted early to MIT, Brown PLME, and Rice University. We reveal the strategies these students used to stand out in the competitive admissions process. Check out our blog for more free resources: What College Admissions Officers Look For:...