Best Arielle Villanueva Podcasts (2025)

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Inside the College Essay: Tips for Writing with Confidence 38:08

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19d ago38:08

38:08

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Jamie Pack, Director of Content and a college consultant at Advantage College Planning, to discuss the nuances of writing college essays. Jamie highlights the value of an authentic voice in essays and provides practical advice on brainstorming and drafting compellin…

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What Does a Record Number of Applications Mean for University of Tennessee Admissions? 35:00

2M ago35:00

35:00

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Clay Alexander from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to discuss the evolving admissions landscape at UTK. They cover key topics like what the admissions review process looks like, how students can stand out beyond GPA and test scores, and what out-of-state ap…

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How Can Students Maximize Their Summer for College Success? 24:22

3M ago24:22

24:22

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, host Arielle and Lindsey Roy discuss how students can make the most out of their summer. They emphasize the importance of intentional planning and the value of part-time jobs, authentic personal projects, and volunteer experiences. They also highlight the significance of early applicati…

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Applying to UNC-Chapel Hill: Insights from the Admissions Office 38:30

4M ago38:30

38:30

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Jared Rosenberg, the Interim Director of Admissions at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Jared shares valuable insights on the university's admissions process, including application statistics, acceptance rates, and the importance of extracurricular a…

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From High School to Med School: How to Start Preparing Now 26:12

5M ago26:12

26:12

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Simrat Arora, a fourth-year medical student at UNC Chapel Hill, to discuss her journey from high school to medical school. Simrat shares valuable insights about building a strong foundation in high school, the importance of networking and gaining exposure to medicin…

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Junior Year Milestones: Staying on Track for College Success 32:24

6M ago32:24

32:24

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle and Advantage College Planning team member Gina Wilner discuss important steps for high school juniors as they prepare for the college admissions process. Key topics include setting goals, selecting rigorous senior year courses, preparing for standardized tests, and planning col…

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Why Should You Consider Ole Miss for College? 29:56

8M ago29:56

29:56

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle chats with Martin Fisher, Director of Campus Visit and Orientation Programs at the University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss. Hotty Totty! Discover why USA Today hails the Ole Miss campus and the charming town of Oxford as the best in the nation. Martin shares …

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What College-Bound Athletes Need to Know About Recruiting 34:29

9M ago34:29

34:29

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle focuses on the college recruitment process for student athletes with Amy Bryant. They cover key aspects of preparing for collegiate sports, including understanding the recruitment timeline, balancing academics and athletics, and navigating commitments. Whether your student is ai…

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Innovation, Business & the Honors College at UNC Charlotte 31:55

10M ago31:55

31:55

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Sam Cady from UNC Charlotte to explore the university’s innovative initiatives, including its R1 research status, AIR institute, and Honors College. Whether you’re considering a business degree or looking for a robust honors program, this episode offers valuable ins…

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How Parents Can Help With College Applications 6:41

11M ago6:41

6:41

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle covers five key tips for parents during the college application process, from filling out parent education information to preparing for the FAFSA. Learn how to provide the right support and stay organized as deadlines approach. Create an FSA ID: https://studentaid.gov/sites/defa…

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College Application Timeline: What You Need to Work on Now! 39:04

12M ago39:04

39:04

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle and her teammate, Arrin Dutton discuss how seniors can prepare for the application season. They chat about deadlines, essays, testing, and letters of recommendation. This is a jam-packed episode with everything students need before they apply!By Arielle Villanueva

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What's The Admissions Process At The University of Georgia? 27:08

1y ago27:08

27:08

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle is joined by Cindy Ganas from the University of Georgia to discuss how students can succeed in the UGA admissions process. They discuss UGA's initiatives for helping students transition, the role of admissions representatives, and the academic criteria UGA considers.…

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College Planning Tips from a High School Counselor 29:52

1y ago29:52

29:52

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle invites Justin, a high school Dean of Students, to share tips for effective communication with your high school counselor, strategies to identify and leverage your academic abilities, and practical advice for students who are feeling unsure about their future goals.…

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Understanding College Affordability 40:57

1y ago40:57

40:57

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle and Ann discuss college affordability. They debunk common misconceptions about paying for college and share the importance of understanding college costs. They also highlight the use of net price calculators, the importance of student ownership in the college admissions process, and various methods for financ…

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How to Choose a College Major 38:30

1+ y ago38:30

38:30

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle and Jordan explore how experiences and learning new skills in high school can shape students' college majors. They share tips for students who are unsure of what to study, including trying new activities, considering colleges that support student exploration, and utilizing tools like personality assessments a…

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What Sets Elon University Apart? Discovering Its Unique Qualities 35:34

1+ y ago35:34

35:34

Send us a text In this episode, join Arielle as she chats with Fredrick Evans from Elon University about what makes the school unique. Uncover the qualities Elon looks for in applicants and how to highlight them. Gain insights into demonstrated interest in admissions and customizable experiences such as internships, research, and study abroad progr…

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I've Been Denied! Now What? 24:27

1+ y ago24:27

24:27

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, join Arielle and Lindsey as they discuss receiving a denied admissions decision. Together, they delicately navigate the emotional landscape of decision-making, offering a supportive hand to students and comforting advice for parents. In moments of college denial, Arielle and Lindsey sha…

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Ready for the New SAT Format? Evolution of Standardized Testing 26:10

1+ y ago26:10

26:10

Send us a text Join College Planning Simplified for an insightful discussion with Morris Kohanfars, Director of Business Development at ArborBridge, acclaimed as the “Best Online Tutoring Service in America.” Explore the digital SAT's evolution, from pandemic-driven changes to test optional trends. Learn why digital testing offers enhanced security…

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ChatGpt and Admissions Essays: AI Thoughts with Georgia Tech 34:34

1+ y ago34:34

34:34

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle is joined by the one and only Rick Clark, Assistant Vice Provost and Executive Director of Admissions at Georgia Tech! They have an insightful discussion on the intersection of AI and higher education. Explore AI's impact on college admissions and Georgia Tech's forward-thinking approach. Learn how generative…

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Selective Admissions, How Tough Is It Really? 36:12

2y ago36:12

36:12

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Gina and Arielle talk about college selectivity. They discuss striking a balance between nurturing dreams and being realistic. Listen in as they shed light on how selectivity has changed, aiming to provide insights that empower both parents and students in navigating the competitive lan…

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3 Common Mistakes in Your College Application 4:30

2y ago4:30

4:30

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle explores common mistakes students often make and provides valuable insights to help students better understand the application process.By Arielle Villanueva

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Exploring Campus: Insider Tips for College Tours and Open Houses 31:56

2y ago31:56

31:56

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle and Leslie Sharpe explore the difference between registering for an 'official visit' through admissions and casually walking around with a friend. They share key factors students should consider when planning a visit, including optimal times of the year and special events that c…

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How Are Your Grades Evaluated at Clemson University? 23:09

2y ago23:09

23:09

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle is joined by Dr. Rick Barth, Director of Admissions at Clemson University, to delve into the application process. Together, they discuss the self-reported academic record, the significance of course rigor, and the support services available to Clemson students. Join them as they…

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What Are The Trends in College Admissions? 24:15

2y ago24:15

24:15

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle, and Lindsey talk about hot topics in the world of college admissions. They explore the latest trend of test-optional policies and how they impact the admissions process. They’ll also discuss the importance of finding the right college fit, chat about holistic admissions, and ho…

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What is Reviewed in Your College Application? 26:40

2y ago26:40

26:40

Send us a text In our latest episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle sits down with Maggie Murphy, Assistant Director of Admissions, at the University of Tampa to chat about how college applications are reviewed by admissions officers!By Arielle Villanueva

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Applying Undecided vs Choosing a Major at NC State 19:50

2+ y ago19:50

19:50

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle talks to Justin Richardson, a Senior Associate Director of Admissions at NC State. They discuss the role a student’s major plays in the application process and address the age-old question of whether students should choose a major or apply undecided.By Arielle Villanueva

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How to Demonstrate Interest: A Simple Action Can Influence Your Admission Decision 33:12

2+ y ago33:12

33:12

Send us a text On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle speaks with Lauren Sefton from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Lauren shares her approach to demonstrated interest and provides insight into the true “engagement” of the process through genuine connection!By Arielle Villanueva

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I've Been Deferred, Help! 25:48

2+ y ago25:48

25:48

Send us a text On this episode of College Planning Simplified, we hear from Gina Wilner from our Advantage College Planning team. Arielle and Gina talk about what being deferred means, what students can do to continue to express their interest, and how to refine the college list.By Arielle Villanueva

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Honors College Conversation East Carolina University 36:24

2+ y ago36:24

36:24

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle discusses the benefits of an ECU honors college experience with Dr. Todd Fraley and Margaret Turner, they chat about what criteria are reviewed in the application process, scholarship details, and who is a good fit for ECU’s Honors College.By Arielle Villanueva

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Building a College List 24:10

3y ago24:10

24:10

Send us a text On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Jordan Richards, College Consultant at Advantage College Planning, will share her best tips on crafting a balanced and realistic college list.By Arielle Villanueva

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Mindful Admissions with author Laurén Carter 36:26

3y ago36:26

36:26

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle interviews Laurén Carter, author of Mindful Admissions, former Director of College Admissions at NYU, and current Director of College Counseling at Sidwell Friends School. They talk about students’ self-discovery, activities lists, and strategies for interviews.…

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Application Countdown: 5 Action Items for Rising Seniors 4:54

3y ago4:54

4:54

Send us a text In this episode, Arielle gives seniors five things to take action on in five minutes! Get your senior in good shape before school starts with her tips!By Arielle Villanueva

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Financial Aid & Affordability with Jeff Levy 47:37

3y ago47:37

47:37

Send us a text On this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle catches up with Jeff Levy, an educational consultant and financial advisor at Grown & Flown. They discuss how families should factor affordability into their college search, why every family should apply for financial aid, and explore the differences between financial aid and st…

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Admission Advice from the University of Richmond 23:24

3y ago23:24

23:24

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, Arielle chats with Kyah Stewart from the University of Richmond about her experiences as an Admissions Counselor. They discuss Kyah’s approach to reading applications, and how Richmond evaluates contribution to the community, and Kyah will share some admissions advice for students and f…

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What Makes a Standout College Essay? 33:57

3y ago33:57

33:57

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, we'll share how to create an application essay that an admissions office won't be able to stop reading. We will discuss how a student’s voice, thoughts, and core values are important factors that can be shared through a college essay. We’ll dive into the power of reflection and wrap up …

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The New Digital SAT: What You Need To Know! 22:21

3y ago22:21

22:21

Send us a text The SAT is changing! In this episode, Arielle speaks with Megan Stubbendeck and Morris Kohanfars from ArborBridge about the new digital SAT and what changes you can expect!By Arielle Villanueva

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College Application Deadline Types: How Do I Choose Which is Right for ME? 30:29

3y ago30:29

30:29

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, we will talk about different college application deadlines, with Gina Wilner, from Advantage College Planning. We're hoping to give students and families an opportunity to get a head start on understanding admissions deadlines to plan the best strategy to apply.…

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From 8th Grade to 9th Grade: Setting Your Student Up for High School Success 22:19

3+ y ago22:19

22:19

Send us a text In this episode of College Planning Simplified, we will talk about how middle schoolers start preparing for high school, with Lindsey Ringenbach, Director of College Consulting, from Advantage College Planning. We'll discuss summer planning, the transition to high school, and encourage reading for fun. At the end, we will share how y…

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Navigating the Common Application Activity List 18:28

4y ago18:28

18:28

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey talks with colleagues, Jamie Pack and Gina Wilner, about how to approach the activity list in the Common Application. Listen for tips, hacks, and general guidance about how to create a story within the activity list section in the application.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Volunteer Opportunities During COVID 8:31

4+ y ago8:31

8:31

Send us a text Lindsey interviews Rose Thompson, Volunteer Programs Manager for Activate Good. Lindsey and Rose discuss how and why students should get involved in community service projects now and in the summer.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Deferred? What does that mean? 12:07

4+ y ago12:07

12:07

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey Ringenbach and colleague, Jamie Pack, discuss what to do if your application for admission was deferred.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Setting and Achieving Your Goals in 2021 18:10

4+ y ago18:10

18:10

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey interviews Brooke Daly, founder of Advantage College Planning, to discuss how both students and parents can set and achieve their goals in 2021.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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How Do Selective Colleges Review High School Transcripts? 19:19

4+ y ago19:19

19:19

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey talks with Advantage College Planning team member, Gina Wilner, about how selective colleges review the essential elements of the high school transcript.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Interview with Recruited Swimmer, Bode Ringenbach 14:10

5y ago14:10

14:10

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey interviews her step-son, Bode Ringenbach, about the trials, tribulations, and excitement of the athletic recruiting process.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Student Perspectives: Equity, and Social Justice in the College Search 23:16

5y ago23:16

23:16

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey talks with rising high school seniors about their involvement in the Black Lives Matter movement and how issues of equity and social justice are impacting their college search and application process.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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A Conversation with Members of the Class of 2020 19:42

5y ago19:42

19:42

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey interviews two of her students from the class of 2020 to hear their perspective on the pandemic, how it's affected their class, and how they feel about their future.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Expert Discussion: Choosing a Compelling College Essay Topic 19:02

5y ago19:02

19:02

Send us a text In this episode, the Advantage College Planning team, Lindsey Ringenbach, Jamie Pack, and Gina Wilner, discusses how to choose a compelling college essay topic.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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COVID-19 & College Admissions with Undergraduate Admission Director at NC State University 15:37

5y ago15:37

15:37

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey interviews Ronnie Chalmers, Director of Strategic Initiatives at NC State University to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the college admission process for the class of 2021.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Earning Effective Letters of Recommendation 24:57

5+ y ago24:57

24:57

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey talks with Kevin Flinn, an English teacher from Ravenscroft School in Raleigh, NC. They discuss how to earn an effective letter of recommendation and offer tips about who to choose and how to appropriately teachers and ask for letters of recommendation.By Lindsey Ringenbach

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Making a Final College Decision: An interview with Dr. Dave Meredith 29:42

5+ y ago29:42

29:42

Send us a text In this episode, Lindsey Ringenbach interviews Dr. Dave Meredith, Interim Vice President of Enrollment and Student Life at Union College, about what to consider before submitting an enrollment deposit. Lindsey and Dave discuss assessing academic, social, and financial fit when making the final college decision.…