In this episode, I speak with seasoned higher education reporter Jeff Selingo about his latest book, Who Gets in & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, and what he learned about the admissions process from a year embedded in the admissions departments of three universities. Jeff debunks some of parents’ and students’ biggest misconceptions about the admissions process and provides tips for evaluating a school before applying. Jeff also shared his hopes for creating a better admissions process for all students. Join us for valuable insights into what college admissions officers are looking for and what factors influence their decisions. [01:47] The impetus behind Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions [03:58] Many students think about admissions backward [08:17] The effects of diversity initiatives and athletics on the admissions process [12:51] In admission circles, money matters [19:04] There’s always a trade-off happening in admissions offices [20:48] Moving toward a test-optional admissions process [27:51] The admissions process is not meant to pit students against each other [33:52] High schools are the unit of measure that admissions officers are looking at [35:55] Students from the same high schools tend to apply to the same pool of colleges [38:30] The truth about acceptance rates and “selective” schools [39:50] How can families evaluate colleges before applying? [43:40] Merit aid really isn’t merit aid [46:31] Many things are not fair [51:05] Hopes for a better admissions process [56:58] There is life after college After listening to our conversation, I hope you and your child are able to approach the college application process with increased confidence and reduced stress. RESOURCES: Jeff’s Website: https://jeffselingo.com/ Who Gets In & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions by Jeff Selingo: https://www.amazon.com/Who-Gets-Why-College-Admissions/dp/1982116293 PrepMatters Website: https://prepmatters.com/