EducationHow ToSelf-Improvement

Inside College Admissions

Scoir, Inc.

We believe students are more than their test scores and colleges are more than their rankings. Higher education and career readiness is the gateway to expanded opportunities for advancement, yet far too many high school students fail to realize those opportunities. We set out to fix a flawed college and career readiness process.

You'll hear from a variety of Scoir team members who will host conversations with industry experts and thought leaders. Join us as we share advice from students, supporters, counselors, colleges, and more!

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20 episodes
Avg 35 min
English

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May 13 · 45 min
Both Sides of the Desk: A Conversation with Jeremy Branch
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
March 31 · 19 min
Waitlisted? Here's What to Do Next
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
February 27 · 44 min
Application and Enrollment Trends We're Seeing This Cycle
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 Report Book a demo with our higher ed team Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir
February 11 · 44 min
How to Find Your College Match
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
Dec 17, 2025 · 16 min
How to Spend Winter Break
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
Sep 24, 2025 · 30 min
ACT and SAT Must-Knows for High Schoolers with Test Innovators
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-optional Determining 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 SAT How to prepare for the tests Managing test anxiety What superscoring is and how to get your test scores How parents and guardians can help Check out these additional resources from Test Innovators: SAT Prep for Students ACT Prep for Students The Student's Guide to the Digital SAT Which Colleges Require the SAT and ACT in 2025–2026? The Ins and Outs of the Enhanced ACT Digital SAT vs Enhanced ACT Infographic Digital SAT Infographic Enhanced ACT Infographic Test Anxiety Battle Guide Learn more about our partnership with Test Innovators here. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir
Sep 5, 2025 · 34 min
Chantal & Julie: A Scoir Success Story!
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
Jun 30, 2025 · 15 min
How to Have a Productive (and Fun!) Summer
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
May 21, 2025 · 21 min
Campus Visits: What to Look for on Your Tour
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
May 8, 2025 · 25 min
[For Counselors & Teachers] Tips for Writing Letters of Recommendation
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
Apr 23, 2025 · 29 min
[For Students] How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation
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
Mar 31, 2025 · 14 min
Course Selection: Strategies for Choosing your High School Courses
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
Nov 15, 2024 · 1 hr 8 min
Why Counselors Give Us Hugs at NACAC [Event Replay]
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 easier Real-World Applications: Learn actual ways colleges and high schools are using Scoir to support student success, right from your peers Connecting Communities: Learn how Scoir promotes collaboration among colleges, high schools, students, and parents/guardians throughout the college admissions process Why Scoir is Different: Find out what sets Scoir apart from traditional college marketing approaches and college guidance systems Check out the blog post recap of this event or the replay on YouTube as well! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir
Oct 25, 2024 · 40 min
Pro Tips for Effective Writing and Communication
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 process how to move past writer's block AI's place in writing how to get into the writing headspace tips for nailing the college interview and more! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir
Sep 4, 2024 · 1 hr
What Students Really Want to Hear from Colleges
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 help Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir
Jul 17, 2024 · 37 min
A Temperature Check on Admissions: Summer 2024
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
May 9, 2024 · 43 min
Navigating College Choices: Counselor Tips for Student and Parent/Guardian Harmony
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
Feb 28, 2024 · 37 min
Navigating Higher Education Budgeting Amid the Changing Admissions Landscape
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 Subscriptions Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir
Jan 17, 2024 · 37 min
5 Essential To-Dos Before Junior Year
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 Website Explore 1-on-1 Services Begin Personal Statement Course Learn How to Apply to College Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir
Jan 10, 2024 · 43 min
5 Essential To-Dos Before Senior Year
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 Website Explore 1-on-1 Services Begin Personal Statement Course Learn How to Apply to College Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir

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