Some people support your work from afar. Charlain Bailey has supported us from the front row.As a veteran school counselor and founder of Going-To-College.com (https://www.going-to-college.com),Charlain has dedicated her life to helping students especially first-generation and underrepresented students understand how to navigate the often confusing and unequal college admissions process.She’s spent nearly two decades doing the work in schools. Now, through her business, she’s stepping beyond the counseling office to support families directly—withculturally informed, accessible, and personalized college planning guidance.And let’s be clear—Charlain doesn’t just talk about support. She lives it. She was one of the very first people to buy The Black Family’s Guide to College Admissions—owning both editions and the audiobook—and even invited us to present the book to her community. She understands that getting this information into more hands is a collective responsibility.🎯 In this episode, we cover: • What most families don’t realize about the real workload of school counselors • Why college planning has to start before senior year • The inspiration behind Going-To-College.com, and how it’s helping families create action plans early • How Charlain infuses faith, structure, and cultural insight into her advising • Practical steps families can take to build a balanced college list • Why she continues to support our mission and align with our message: cost, location, major, and career — in that order 🔥 So… we have to ask: What are YOU doing to get this good information?Because it’s out here. Charlain has it. We have it. Thequestion is—are you ready to use it to change the trajectory of your family’s future?🎧 Listen, share, and take notes. This episode is packed with real talk and real tools.🔗 Learn more about Charlain’s work at: https://www.going-to-college.com📚 Get The Black Family’s Guide toCollege Admissions (print or audio): Strategic Admissions Advice (https://www.strategicadmissionsadvice.com/theblackfamilysguide)🎙 Subscribe to Application to Admissionfor weekly insights and conversations with the people doing the work.
What if your student’s love of the game could lead tomore than just a win on the scoreboard? What if it could open the door to college, mentorship, mental wellness, and long-term success?In this episode of Application to Admission, we sit down with Dr. Enzley Mitchell IV, founder of PrepSearch(https://prepsearch.net), seasoned NAIA and NCAA coach, and lifelong educator, to break down what athletic recruitingreally looks like today, how families can leverage sports strategically, and why being a college athlete is about way more than a scholarship. Dr. Mitchell’s experience spans nearly every level of college athletics—from Division I basketball to athletic director roles at HBCUs and small liberal arts colleges. He’s helped build championship teams and first-generation college success stories. Today, he’s on a mission to help families navigate theconfusing college athletics landscape through his groundbreaking PrepSearch College Success Seminar.🏀 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • The myths and mistakes families make during athletic recruitment • Why waiting until junior year is too late to build your college-athlete plan • How to prioritize cost, location, major, and career even in athleticdecision-making • Why NAIA and D3 schools are often overlooked gems for student-athletes • The mental health benefits of sports and why athletic identity helps studentsthrive • What makes a program “transfer-safe,” “coach-connected,” and worth your trust • And how faith, structure, and mentorship form the foundation of Dr. Mitchell’s advising philosophy🎯 If your student is in grades 8–12 and loves their sport, this episode is a must-listen. Athletic recruiting is changing fast—and the families who win are the ones who plan with purpose.🔗 Links + Resources: • Learn more about PrepSearch and Dr. Mitchell’s programs: https://prepsearch.net • Subscribe to the Application to Admission podcast for more insights on college admissions, storytelling, and access
We’re kicking off Season 3 with the wisdom and warmth of The Scholarship Mama herself, Laverne Mickens. This episode is not just a conversation, it’s a masterclass inturning hustle, heart, and strategy into real college money.Laverne is the proud mom of five, and together her children have earned over $3 million in scholarships. But her story is much bigger than the money. It’s about building confidence, advocating boldly, and helping families—especially Blackand Brown families—understand how to access the opportunities they deserve.I this episode, we get into: • How Laverne became a trusted national voice on scholarships • Her personal playbook for winning big with essays, local awards, and free resources • Why mindset, self-advocacy, and family engagement matter • The myths that stop students from applying and how to fix that • How to start even if you feel behindWith the cost of college higher than ever and admissions more chaotic than ever, we need voices like Laverne’s. Parents are stressed, teens are confused, anddeadlines are coming fast. This episode reminds us that strategy and hope can—and must—coexist.🟢Listen now, subscribe, and share it with a parent who wants to win this year!
Parents, if you’ve ever felt lost in the college admissions process, this episode is a MUST-LISTEN! We’re sitting down with Rhona Vega, the powerhouse behind Parent Matterz, an organization that’s changing the game for families navigating college prep. Rhona is a dedicated advocate, mentor, and event curator, hosting impactful workshops and networking experiences across the country—from New Jersey to Martha’s Vineyard—helping parents and students understand the ever-changing world of higher education. Whether it’s financial aid, test prep, scholarships, or building the right college list, Parent Matterz provides real, actionable strategies to make sure families are informed, empowered, and READY. If you’re a parent trying to help your child get into the right school without stress and confusion, Rhona Vega and Parent Matterz have the blueprint. Tune in now for expert insights and straight talk about what families need to know in 2025! 🎧✨
In this episode, we dive into the intersection of education marketing, data analytics, and admissions strategy with José Mallabo, Marketing expert and a seasoned professional with over three decades of experience spanning Fortune 200 companies, tech startups, and higher education. José brings his expertise from leadership roles at institutions like Morehouse College and SCAD, where he reshaped marketing and admissions strategies, and from corporate giants like eBay and LinkedIn, where he led global communications and market expansion. Together, we explore: How data analytics is transforming college admissions and recruitment. The role of storytelling in creating compelling educational marketing campaigns. Insights into how HBCUs and selective colleges can leverage marketing to stand out in a competitive landscape. Practical advice for educators, administrators, and parents on navigating today’s admissions environment. Whether you’re a parent, an education leader, or just fascinated by the evolution of marketing in higher ed, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration. Tune in for a dynamic conversation that bridges the worlds of tech innovation and transformative education.
In this thought-provoking episode of Application to Admission, we dive into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the college admissions process with Emily Pacheco, co-founder of EdHub.ai and a trailblazer in leveraging AI for education. As AI reshapes how students prepare for college, write essays, and navigate the application process, it also raises critical questions about equity, authenticity, and its impact on admissions decisions. Emily shares insights into how AI tools are revolutionizing student support, from personalized essay feedback to college list generation, while addressing the ethical considerations that come with these advancements. Together, we explore the implications of AI for underrepresented students, how families can responsibly use these tools, and what admissions offices need to understand about the growing presence of AI in applications. Tune in to learn: How AI is changing the way students approach college applications. The benefits and challenges of integrating AI into the admissions process. Why educators, parents, and admissions professionals must stay ahead of the curve. This is an essential conversation for anyone invested in the future of college admissions, equity, and the responsible use of AI in education. Don’t miss this insightful interview with Emily Pacheco, a leader at the forefront of this technological revolution.
In this uplifting episode of "Application to Admission," we welcome Dana Michelle, the dynamic host of "Dana Being Dana" and visionary founder of the Homecoming Challenge. Known for her powerful storytelling and dedication to community building, Dana inspires individuals to give back to the institutions that shaped them. The Homecoming Challenge invites alumni to return to their alma maters, creating opportunities for current students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Dana shares her journey of building the Homecoming Challenge, her pride as an alum, and her steadfast commitment to fostering connection, mentorship, and access to higher education. Together, we explore how her work closes the gap between alumni and students, establishing a legacy of support and success within educational communities. Tune in to discover how Dana is redefining what it means to “pay it forward,” the transformative power of alumni engagement, and how small actions can lead to profound impacts in the lives of students. This episode is for anyone passionate about education, equity, and the enduring influence of a vibrant alumni network. Discover more about Dana Michelle, her work, and how you can join the movement to make a meaningful difference.
In this insightful episode of Application to Admission, we sit down with Ron Lieber, a veteran journalist from The New York Times and the author of the bestselling book The Price You Pay for College. As a leading voice on the intersection of personal finance and higher education, Ron has dedicated his career to demystifying the complex world of college costs, financial aid, and merit scholarships for families across the country. Ron brings a unique perspective, having navigated the college admissions process not only as a student himself but now as a parent, guiding his own family through these critical financial and educational decisions. Throughout this conversation, Ron shares invaluable advice on how families can better understand and maximize financial aid offers, uncover the hidden truths about merit scholarships, and make informed choices that align with both their financial situations and their children’s goals. This episode is packed with actionable tips and heart-to-heart advice that will resonate with both parents and students who are trying to make sense of the often-overwhelming world of college finances. Whether you’re just starting the process or deep into applications, Ron Lieber offers clarity, empathy, and expert guidance on how to avoid financial pitfalls and make college more affordable. Tune in for a conversation that could transform how you approach paying for college—and ultimately, how you make one of the most important decisions for your family’s future.
In this in-depth episode of Application to Admission, we’re honored to be joined by Dr. Deondra Rose, a leading scholar on public policy and higher education, with a special focus on HBCUs, gender, race, and political power. Dr. Rose, a Duke University professor and author of The Power of Black Excellence: HBCUs and the Fight for American Democracy, sheds light on the transformative role HBCUs play in shaping America's political and economic landscape. As we approach the upcoming election, Dr. Rose offers a timely discussion on how Black excellence, civic engagement, and higher education intersect to influence political and economic power in the U.S. Tune in to learn how these institutions continue to be a force for progress! Purchase Book Now!!!!
In this episode of *Application to Admission*, we sit down again with education expert Akil Bello, a leading voice in equitable college admissions and standardized testing. Akil shares his unique journey guiding his own son through the college application process and offering a rare, personal glimpse into how a professional approaches these crucial decisions. We dive into his expert insights on the evolving role of standardized testing, including the Supreme Court's recent rulings on college admissions data. From practical tips for parents to a deep analysis of the educational landscape, Akil’s perspective is invaluable for families navigating today's complex college admissions world. Whether you're a parent, student, or educator, this episode is packed with essential advice you won’t want to miss! Tune in for an enlightening conversation that breaks down barriers and gives you actionable insights on testing, admissions, and equity in higher education.
Welcome back!As we launch season 3 of the Application to Admission podcast, we are thrilled to introduce Kevin Hudson, the Associate Director for Institutional Diversity and College Opportunity in the Office of the Vice Provost for Instititonal Equity and Diversity at Princeton University. With a distinguished career dedicated to expanding educational opportunities, Kevin shares invaluable insights on access, equity, and the evolving landscape of college admissions. As a key figure in shaping Princeton’s outreach strategies, Kevin offers a unique perspective on how institutions can support students from all backgrounds in navigating the admissions process. Tune in to gain expert advice from one of higher education's most influential leaders.
Want a college admissions hot topic? Let’s talk about the SAT and the ACT. The pandemic may have paused them as admissions requirements, but that was temporary, and many colleges are now evaluating whether or not to bring it back. Now you have to decide what your child should do. Enter our superstar guest for this episode. Akil Bello is THE preeminent testing expert in the country today, bar none. He is the Senior Director of Advocacy and Advancement at FairTest, where he works to help ensure that standardized tests are fully understood and properly used. He has worked at every level of the supplemental education industry, advising universities, launching multiple companies, developing dozens of admissions and test preparation programs, training hundreds of instructors, and teaching thousands of students. He’s also the founding partner and CEO for Bell Curves, a test preparation company that focuses on helping public schools, non-profit organizations, and community-based organizations understand standardized tests and admissions and develop affordable solutions for their students. If there was a picture for “super smart human being” in the dictionary, Akil Bello would have his picture there. Testing is (or thought of as) big deal and Akil is here to set things straight. Learn and enjoy!!!!
Parents of 11th Graders, quick question: where are you in the college process? Do you have a college list? Have you discussed college costs and financial aid with your child? Do you know what to do and when to do it? With so many questions understandably circling through your minds, we’ve put together a series of webinars featuring a variety of experts in the college application, testing and financial aid fields. And in preparation for the first webinar happening on Sunday, January 29th at 5:30pm EST, we’re happy to have Jennifer Jessie (aka Jenn the Tutor) on our podcast this week. Jenn is a college consultant extraordinaire with a passion for leveling the playing field in college admissions. Her own Black Girl Magic makes her a unicorn in this space and she is committed to using her character, confidence, two VA Tech degrees and JD from UVA to being a force for good. As an informed advocate for surveying the landscape to find the best college choices, Jenn is a resource that we admire, respect and hold in the highest regard. So buckle up, get your notepad and listen up to Jenn the Tutor!!!
Welcome to year 2 and season 3 of the Application to Admission podcast!! As a team, we’ve learned so much these past 12 months and have enjoyed sharing what we know about the college application and admissions process with you. If this is your first time listening, thank you for being here and get ready for a treat!! The college application process is cyclical and, right now, class of 2024 parents of juniors in high school need to pay special attention to academic planning (your child’s classes), standardized testing and gearing up for college visits. This week’s podcast is from this exact same time in 2022 and it’s our pilot. So many gems in here! Please listen, learn and let’s talk about everything on your mind at @understandingthechoices
This week, we feature Julianna Mokaya, a Chicago native and first-year Princeton student, shares her experiences navigating the application process, choosing a college, andadjusting to campus life. She talks about the importance of researching schools, leveraging resources, and being intentional about her college choices—highlighting her focus on affordability, campus vibe, and academic interests.Juliana also offers valuable advice for students preparing to transition to college: start exploring your classes early, stay open-minded, and make the most of your summer before college begins.Parents and educators, don’t miss her insights on supporting students, the significance of parental involvement, and how to help students craft impactful essays. Subscribe, share, and tune in for inspiration and practical tips on thriving during college admissions and beyond!
In this episode of *Application to Admission*, we’re excited to feature Candice Mackey, an experienced college counselor and leader at Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles. With a commitment to empowering students from underrepresented communities, Candice has spent years guiding young people through the college admissions process, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed. Candice brings an invaluable perspective to the final stretch of college application season, sharing her insights on how seniors can make the most of these crucial weeks. She emphasizes the importance of staying organized, staying focused on their unique strengths, and submitting thoughtful, polished applications. Her advice encourages students to use their time wisely by refining their personal statements, double-checking application requirements, and ensuring they meet every deadline. Candice knows that the small details often make a big difference, and her strategies are designed to help students feel empowered rather than overwhelmed. As a dedicated advocate for students of color and those from economically diverse backgrounds, Candice is passionate about removing barriers to higher education and making the process more accessible for all. This conversation offers not only practical advice but also the encouragement and motivation students need as they approach one of the most important milestones in their academic journeys. Tune in to gain inspiration and expert guidance from Candice Mackey, a true leader in the field who’s changing lives and shaping futures, one student at a time. View video version at : https://youtu.be/s_4JMwmsV0E?si=wLCKzbTsf3KB4Hzv
In this episode, we sit down with Ty Allan Jackson, an inspiring author and literacy advocate. Ty shares his journey from a corporate sales career to becoming a self-published children's book author, driven by his desire to teach his son about money. Despite facing 147 rejections, Ty's perseverance led to the successful "Danny Dollar" series. He discusses the importance of authenticity, the joy of reading, and how comic books inspired him. Ty's advice for graduates highlights the power of using one's unique voice to serve others. Tune in for an uplifting conversation on literacy and purpose. Follow on IG @ty_allen_jackson
Happy Mother's Day to everyone who celebrates it! This week's episode features Melissa James, a Managing Director and Vice Chairman of Global Capital Markets at Morgan Stanley. She is a mother of three boys and is recognized as one of the most powerful women on Wall Street. Melissa's perspective on redefining success is invaluable, as she is always analyzing and sharing practical advice. In the episode, Melissa urges parents not to let their preconceived notions about certain schools dominate their children. She believes that the college admission process is a partnership between parents and children, and that we should all strive to learn and love our children. Enjoy listening to her insights!
Well-informed and compassionate are only words to describe the way Yetunde Daniels-Rubinstein moves within the world. As a seasoned college counselor and mother of teenage daughters, she knows what it takes to approach the college process with ambition and grace. A Bucknell University grad, she’s a former college athlete, independent school educator, college counseling instructor for aspiring counselors and a respected and necessary leader within the Private School Village community, Yetunde honors our podcast by sharing valuable insights that are wise and thought-provoking. More than anything, her voice and knowledge is what we all need right now as we try to make sense of this year’s college admissions cycle. Please listen and thank us later.
From our March 2024 SXSW presentation, Redefining Success in a Changing Higher Education Landscape we’re thrilled to share this recording. It’s the story of the birth of our book, The Black Family's Guide to College Admissions: A Conversation about Education, Parenting, and Race, and the mission we’re committed to leading in evolving college admissions landscape.