Inside College Admissions

We're joined by Jeremy Branch, Associate Director of College Counseling at The Haverford School, who brings 19 years of experience in college admission. Jeremy is also past president of PACAC and past board director of NACAC.In our conversation, we learn more about Jeremy's approach to working with students and their families and how he brings his admissions expertise into his work. This one is a must-listen for counselors at any stage of their career!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Being notified that you've been put on the waitlist can be a scary feeling. In this episode, we pull back the curtain and explain how the waitlist actually works on the college side. Hear advice from former Dean of Admissions, Peter Van Buskirk, about how to proceed!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

As a follow up to our annual Halftime Report, join three Scoir team members as we take a look at some application trends we uncovered earlier on in this enrollment cycle, and even share some new patterns we’re seeing in our data! Scoir is a network of over 1,000,000 users—we’re excited to leverage the power of that network to share some valuable insights with you all.Download the Halftime ReportBook a demo with our higher ed teamFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode we talk about the importance of finding a college that's a good match for YOU. We'll share advice on where to start your search, what to consider when choosing which schools are a good match for you, and some real life advice from college grads! Find your college match with this free 2-minute quiz!Sign up for Scoir here 😄Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Community Manager at Scoir, Sarah, shares her top pieces of advice for students heading into winter break. We cover 4 tips for seniors and 4 tips for underclassmen. Let's dive in!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode, we chat with Celena from Test Innovators, our test prep partner! If you’re feeling overwhelmed or confused about standardized testing, you’re in the right place.In this episode for students and parents/guardians, we cover:What you need to know about test-optionalDetermining how many times to take the tests (and if you should take the tests at all)What you need to know about recent ACT changes and the SATHow to prepare for the testsManaging test anxietyWhat superscoring is and how to get your test scoresHow parents and guardians can helpCheck out these additional resources from Test Innovators:SAT Prep for StudentsACT Prep for StudentsThe Student's Guide to the Digital SATWhich Colleges Require the SAT and ACT in 2025–2026?The Ins and Outs of the Enhanced ACTDigital SAT vs Enhanced ACT Infographic Digital SAT InfographicEnhanced ACT InfographicTest Anxiety Battle GuideLearn more about our partnership with Test Innovators here.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode, we're joined by former Title I Counselor, Julie (aka Ms. K), and her former student, Chantal, as they fill us in on Chantal's incredible journey from student to Scoir team member!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Summer is for relaxing and recharging, but it’s also a great opportunity to set yourself up for success! In this episode, former college counselor and former dean of admission share their pro-tips for college-bound high schoolers on how to make the most of summer break. From working and volunteering, to exploring and getting creative, we've got you covered! Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Thinking about visiting colleges this summer or fall? In this podcast episode, we’re breaking down the importance of campus visits, what to look for on the tour, and more!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

We shared an episode for students about requesting letters of recommendation, now we're sharing our pro tips for counselors and teachers as they write letters of recommendation on behalf of their students! In this episode, you'll hear from Julie Kampschroeder, a former college counselor with 31+ years of experience, and Peter Van Buskirk, a former dean of admission, as they share advice from both sides of the desk.We hope you enjoy this episode and feel free to check out our episode for students on the same topic here!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Wondering how to ask for a letter of recommendation — and actually get a strong one?In this episode, we break down everything students need to know about recommendation letters: when to ask, how to ask, and what to share with your teacher or counselor to help them write a compelling letter.🎙️ Our guests, Julie Kampschroeder (former college counselor with over 31 years of experience) and Peter Van Buskirk (former Dean of Admission), share insider tips and practical advice to help your letter stand out in the college admissions process.Prefer to read? Check out this blog post on the same topic!For our counselors and teachers: We also recorded an episode for you about writing letters of recommendation for your students coming soon. Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode, Peter Van Buskirk, Strategic Advisor for Scoir and former Dean of Admission, shares pro tips for selecting your high school courses. We dive into what colleges are looking for and how to plan your classes strategically throughout your years in high school.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this webinar-turned-podcast, hear the experts talk about how Scoir's foundational work with high school counselors benefits the work of colleges, too. Liz McGonigle, Managed Subscriptions Engagement Strategist at Scoir, Chris White from High Tech High, and Sebastian Brown from the University of Oregon share how Visits, Matches, and Parent/Guardian Messages in Scoir seamlessly bridge the gap and solve shared challenges between high school and college, empowering students, college staff, and high school staff every step of the way.What You’ll Discover:The Scoir Love: Hear what counselors and admissions staff have to say about Scoir, and how it makes their jobs easierReal-World Applications: Learn actual ways colleges and high schools are using Scoir to support student success, right from your peersConnecting Communities: Learn how Scoir promotes collaboration among colleges, high schools, students, and parents/guardians throughout the college admissions processWhy Scoir is Different: Find out what sets Scoir apart from traditional college marketing approaches and college guidance systemsCheck out the blog post recap of this event or the replay on YouTube as well!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode, Chief Growth Officer at Scoir, Ashley Smith, and former Dean of Admission, Peter Van Buskirk chat all things effective communication! Whether you're a college-bound student writing your college essay or heading into the workforce and want to sharpen your skills, we're sharing our tips for breaking out of the 5 paragraph essay and sharing your true sense of self! We cover: when to start the writing processhow to move past writer's blockAI's place in writinghow to get into the writing headspacetips for nailing the college interviewand more! Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Join Ciara and Erika, Senior Engagement Strategists at Scoir and college admissions marketing professionals, plus Abby deSilva, Inbound Marketing Strategist at Scoir and member of Gen Z, as they share strategies to authentically connect with Gen Z and thrive through today’s admissions challenges. They evaluate what students think about college admissions today and how this can inform how you market to students this year.This podcast covers:What students are saying about college admissions (what vibes with them)What students are looking for in a college and their marketing (what to yeet and what to keep)Actionable tips based on student feedback (embracing your Gen Z marketing era)How Scoir can helpFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Our Chief Growth Officer, Ashley Smith, is joined by Peter Van Buskirk as he shares a recap of key takeaways and hot topics from this year's No Name Conference sessions. Take a listen as we discuss the FAFSA delays, how students can cope with the "achievement culture", and more.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode, host Kaila Brown, former high school counselor, and guest Aaron Fulk, Director of College Counseling at the University School of Nashville, offer insightful strategies for counselors in supporting students and families through the college decision-making process. They emphasize the importance of asking the right questions to encourage exploration, navigate financial considerations, and foster open communication between students and their parents/guardians. You'll hear practical advice on managing application season as well. The discussion highlights the crucial role of counselors in guiding families with empathy, expertise, and practical support.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

By 2027, the number of names nationally available for search will drop by 38%, according to Forbes. A shifting public perception of college and post-high school plans along with a drop in the young adult population has shrunk the pool of college applicants. With these enrollment and search cliffs, colleges are faced with the challenge (and opportunity) of diversifying their lead generation strategies and tapping into true content personalization. Perhaps an even greater challenge is setting aside the resources needed to pursue new avenues to reach students.In this episode, Ashley Murphy and Liz McGonigle, both former college admissions professionals who are now on our Scoir team, share valuable lessons learned about higher education budgeting as institutions pave their path forward.Explore Scoir Managed SubscriptionsFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Back by popular demand, Tom from College Essay Guy Team joins us for this fun episode! We'll share 5 of the most essential tasks we recommend you complete BEFORE your junior year. So if you're a freshman, sophomore, or even a junior, listen for tips you won't want to miss! College Essay Guy Resources:College Essay Guy WebsiteExplore 1-on-1 ServicesBegin Personal Statement CourseLearn How to Apply to CollegeFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

What do Olivia Rodrigo and college application culture have in common? 🤔 In this episode, Tom from the College Essay Guy Team joins Elena to talk about this and much more! If you're an underclassman (freshman, sophomore, or junior) or even a senior, listen for the 5 essential things to complete BEFORE senior year.College Essay Guy Resources:College Essay Guy WebsiteExplore 1-on-1 ServicesBegin Personal Statement CourseLearn How to Apply to CollegeFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode we're joined by Scoir team member with a background in admissions, Liz McGonigle! We dive into how college fairs and events typically work, how to engage with college reps, and fun ways to explore schools right from your couch! Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

By winter break, you may have checked off a lot of your senior year To-Do list: applying to college, studying for exams, and of course, making memories! Wondering what to do with the rest of your senior year? In this episode, Elena from Scoir and Tom from College Essay Guy Team share their top 5 essential checklist items for you!College Essay Guy Resources:Explore 1-on-1 ServicesBegin Personal Statement CourseLearn How to Apply to CollegeEssay Tracker SampleHow to Combine Your College Essay Prompts (To Save 20+ Writing Hours)School-Specific Supplemental Essay GuidesBEABIES ExerciseA How-To Guide for the Short Answer Questions for Highly-Selective CollegesPaying for College in 4 Steps!How to Choose a CollegeCollege Interview Tips and Strategies - The Ultimate GuideHow to Write a Great Letter of Continued InterestCollege KickstartFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Curious about what applying with Scoir is like? Want to hear what's new this year? This episode is for you! We'll dive into the ways applying with Scoir streamlines your college applications and the exciting updates we made to the experience this year!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Hello August! A new school year is quickly approaching and we're excited to share some advice for our counselor community. In this episode, we're joined by previous college counselor with experience working in both private and public schools, Kelly Weber. During our conversation, we share ways counselors can prepare for back-to-school season, tips for each class year, how to manage large caseloads, and even advice for newer counselors as they begin their career!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Load up your shopping cart because, with these tips, you can get more of what you need for your dorm on a budget!  In this episode, Elena and her sister Andrea talk about what they love most: finding things you need for less. We'll give you suggestions for where to shop, what student discount apps to download, and dorm tips we learned FROM college that can help you now!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode, we sit down with Celena from Test Innovators, our test prep partner! We cover the testing landscape, the main differences between the digital and paper SATs, how to prep, what colleges require, how to determine which test you should take (SAT v ACT), managing test day anxiety, and the role parents/guardians play in the testing process.Check out these resources from Test Innovators:SAT Prep for StudentsACT Prep for StudentsTest Prep for Your High SchoolThe Student's Guide to the Digital SATThe Educator's Guide to the Digital SATLearn more about our partnership with Test Innovators here.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode we're joined by former Dean of Admission, Peter Van Buskirk, who shares key takeaways from this year's No Name Conferences. We dive into the digital SAT, upcoming changes to the FAFSA, the impact of ChatGPT, learning environments, and more! Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

In this episode we're joined by SEL experts, Dr. Dana Godek and Kelly Dolan Sapp for a conversation about the youth mental health crisis. We dive into what this means, how parents/guardians can approach checking in with their students, and practices we can take advantage of to support our students.Find Dr. Dana Godek & Kelly Dolan Sapp at edu-solve.com (@weareedusolve).Helpful Resources: Surgeon General Teen Social Media Advisory EduSolve Article on Adult SELFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

GRWM for a college visit 🤪 jk it's your college visit BUT I will be sharing questions that I definitely wish I had asked on my college visits! Whether you're listening in the car or are prepping in advance, this episode will give you things to look out for and questions to ask on your tour!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Before you make your final choice for college, listen to this episode! We are debunking the myth that students have to accrue a mountain of debt to go to college. 🙅‍♀️💰 Together with college expert and former Dean of Admissions, Peter Van Buskirk, we'll share tips and exactly what you and your family can do NOW in order to avoid burdensome college loan debt! Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

College Decision Day is right around the corner! Still making your final choice? We've got tips for you! ⭐ We'll talk with college expert and former Dean of Admissions, Peter Van Buskirk, about what to do if you've been admitted OR are on the waitlist for schools, important things to consider (like fit and the financial aspect), and what you can do NOW before making your final decision!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Get your pen and paper out because in this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on all things financial aid! 💰 In this fifth and final episode of our family mini-series, Elena and Peter Van Buskirk will share Financial Aid terms, helpful strategies, and even the exact questions you need to ask in this financial aid process.IMPORTANT NOTE: Since recording this episode, the Department of Education has announced changes that will be made to financial aid and the calculations used for the FAFSA. These changes will be released in December 2023 and will be effective for applicants for the 2024-2025 school year of college. Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be changed to Student Aid Index (SAI). For more details, please refer to this blog post! Subscribe to our newsletter: https://hubs.ly/Q01MpfmG0Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Is your junior beginning to build a college list? This episode is a great place to get started! 🌟 In this fourth episode of our family mini-series, Elena and Peter Van Buskirk will discuss how you can advise your student, with lots of tips including what kinds of colleges and how many students should have on their lists!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

To test or not to test? That is the question! 📝 In this third episode of our family mini-series, we explore how you can advise your student in the standardized testing experience! We'll go over the difference between the SAT and ACT, what super scoring and self-reporting mean, and tips for test preparation.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Should my student take another year of language classes? What about AP and Honors classes? 🤔 We'll answer these questions and more in this second episode of our family mini-series! Elena and Peter Van Buskirk will explore how your student's selection of high school classes can benefit them in college, and how they can help their academic record to stand out! Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Want to guide your student in their college application journey but aren't sure where to start? With this episode (the first in our Family Bootcamp mini-series), you'll learn about the best way to engage your student, important things to look for on college campuses, and mistakes to avoid as both students and parents/guardians!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Winter break may be short but there are a LOT of fun things to do! ❄️ In this episode, Elena and her sister, Andrea, talk about how your favorite songs can help with scholarship apps and how the childhood magic of sledding can make your winter break :,)Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Through a conversation with Admissions Mom, we talk about why it's important to celebrate the big milestone of submitting your applications (and not just celebrating acceptances). Join us as we discuss ways to celebrate, what you can learn from this experience, and more!Admissions Mom WebsiteAdmissions Mom on InstagramAdmissions Mom on RedditApplyingToCollege Reddit CommunityFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

⚠️ TIME TO BE REAL ⚠️ in your college application! It turns out you can use humor and show your personality in your application (?!) and we'll tell you how! In this episode, Elena and Tom (from College Essay Guy Team) talk about the secret things you're probably worrying too much about and the things you don't want to forget in your college apps. Tom Campbell is a Community Manager with the College Essay Guy Team. With years of admissions experience at Pomona College and College of the Holy Cross, Tom brings such valuable experience and shares those insider insights that could make a huge difference in your college essay!Resources we mention:College Essay Guy Blog: How-To Guide for the Short Answer Questions for Highly-Selective CollegesCollege Essay Guy Blog: How to Format a College Essay: Step-by-Step GuideJoin the College Essay Guy Parent CommunityFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Looking for that unique twist to make your college essay stand out? 🌟 It might be in your niche laptop stickers or celeb fandom! In this episode, we'll talk with Tom from the College Essay Guy Team about how the little things in your life can be essay inspiration, and small tweaks to make your essay really stand out. Tom Campbell is a Community Manager with the College Essay Guy Team. With years of admissions experience at Pomona College and College of the Holy Cross, Tom brings such valuable experience and shares those insider insights that could make a huge difference in your college essay!Resources from College Essay Guy we mention: Blog: The Values Exercise (at 12:06)Blog: Essence Objects Exercises (at 13:51)Blog: 27 Outstanding Personal Statement ExamplesIncludes the Laptop Sticker and iTaylor sample personal statements (at 15:17 and 20:58)YouTube: How to Outline & Structure Your College EssayOverviews the Narrative and Montage paths (at 23:20)Podcast: Using the Secrets of Screenwriting to Write Your College EssayMore details about the "Pixar" structure/Narrative structure from Ethan (at 24:03)Blog: How to "Show Don't Tell" in College EssaysGreat tips on how to bring small "nuggets of gold" and specific details to your personal statement during the final revision stagesJoin the College Essay Guy Students-Only DiscordJoin the College Essay Guy Parent CommunityFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Are you looking to study someplace new? In this episode, Elena and Tushar continue their conversation about Tushar's experience studying in the U.S. from India! Plus, Tushar will share his advice for other international students beginning the application process! 🌏The information and recommendations shared in this episode are based on Tushar's personal experience, and your experience may be different; nonetheless, we hope it is helpful to hear from someone who's been through the process!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Applying to college in the U.S.? 🌏 We're here for you! In this episode, Elena chats with her friend, Tushar, who is studying in the U.S. from India. They’ll talk about the motivations, challenges, and positive mindset that you may find as you begin applying!Stay tuned for part two!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Summer is for pizza bagels, long drives with friends, and doing... something cool? Not sure how to spend your summer? In today's episode, Elena chats with a recent grad (aka her sister, Andrea!) about how to get creative with your summer plans!Check out this blog to learn more about making the most of your summer!Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Dorm Essentials is BACK with new additions to your Ultimate College Packing List! In this episode, we talk about college must-haves, like photos from home, microwavable food (hello Kraft Mac & Cheese!), and more. :) Timestamps below!0:58 Conversation with D’Lanna about how pictures can make a space feel like home and always making sure you have medicine.7:43 Conversation with Ashley about saving space with storage bins and having water on-hand.13:14 Conversation with Noah about getting creative with microwave food.16:35 Conversation with Emily about how a non-iphone camera can help you make new friends.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Here’s the tea about college: your Future Self will thank you for packing bandaids and a box of Cheez-its, and you’ll NEED to bring flip flops for the shower! 🙏 In today’s episode, we’re spilling the Dorm Room Essentials and the things you’ll definitely want to bring with you to college! Timestamps below:2:22 Conversation with Caroline about bringing the right snacks to school with you.5:25 Conversation with Shohom about the importance of shower shoes and keys to making your dorm mattress more comfortable.15:42 Conversation with Anna about the smaller dorm room essentials that you don’t want to forget.18:33 Conversation with Paul about how noise cancelling headphones can save the day. Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Scoir welcomes back Peter Van Buskirk to the podcast with a discussion about how colleges are continuing to evolve through COVID, how they're evaluating students, waitlists, the pending enrollment cliff, and more.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

College 101 is BACK with more of the secret tips that colleges definitely didn't tell you on the tour! We reveal the truth about late nights at the library, getting creative with your meal plan, and the secret to sleep in college. Timestamps below!1:07 Conversation with Caroline about the importance of sleep and how making lists can help you stay on track. 6:17 Conversation with Paul about meal plan alternatives. 9:56 Conversation with Noah about the best time to buy (or not buy) textbooks so you can save your money. 14:37 Conversation with Anna about making friends in your major and the value of asking for feedback. Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

We're bringing you to college early with today's episode about College Hacks and the secret tips that colleges definitely didn't tell you on the tour. We'll talk with grads about how to spice up classic dining hall meals, the class times to absolutely avoid, and the truth about switching majors. Timestamps below!2:11 Conversation with D’Lanna about organizing and taking advantage of a fresh start.7:58 Conversation with Shohom about make your schedule (and reconsidering that Friday 8am)12:15 Conversation with Emily about protecting your tech.19:03 Conversation with Ashley about the importance of showing up to class and getting creative with dining hall food.Follow us on Instagram!Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

Join us and our special guest, Carolyn Caplan (aka Admissions Mom), for a discussion about how parents and students can come together for a meaningful, collaborative, and transparent admissions journey.Admissions Mom Website Applying to College (A2C) subreddit Admissions Mom on RedditEmail Carolyn: [email protected] us on Instagram! Learn more about ScoirFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir

And we're back with Part 2 of "What I Wish I Knew Before College!" Y'all loved our first episode in this series so in today's episode, we talk with 5 more college grads about their biggest tips & advice for you. Time stamps below!Time Stamps:1:10 Conversation with Shohom:1:45 Social media 6:30 Not getting caught up in what you think you’re “supposed” to be doing 12:20 Conversation with D’Lanna:12:50 Tips for introducing yourself to your professors16:09 Changing friends throughout your college career19:00 Conversation with Cole:19:28 Learning another language before going to college20:28 Saving money for college & student discounts 23:13 Conversation with Anna:23:31 Being curious about and reflective of the things outside of class27:15 Mastering the 20 minute nap28:42 Conversation with Paul:29:00 Researching professors with “Rate My Professor” 32:04 Setting yourself up for success senior year & internships35:22 How joining clubs/meeting people can open doors for you in the futureFollow us on Instagram! @ScoirIncLearn more about Scoir: www.scoir.comFollow us on Instagram!Learn more about Scoir