299. Inside the Private Admissions World: An Interview with Akbar Rahel, Director of Admissions at Prep Expert

🎙️ Inside the Private Admissions World: An Interview with Akbar Rahel, Director of Admissions at Prep Expert

📌 Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of The College Admissions Process Podcast, I sit down with Akbar Rahel, the Director of Admissions at Prep Expert — our podcast’s title sponsor — to discuss the realities and ethics behind private college counseling. This episode is a must-listen for students, parents, and college counselors looking to better understand how private admissions professionals support students while maintaining authenticity and integrity throughout the process.

Whether you're navigating the test-optional landscape or looking for ways to elevate your application, Akbar shares real strategies, ethical boundaries, and the inside scoop on what truly matters in today’s competitive admissions world. 🧠📚

✅ Top 3 Key Takeaways You Can’t Miss:

✍️ Keeping It Real – Students Must Own Their Voice

Akbar emphasizes the importance of authenticity in application materials. While private admissions counselors offer expert guidance, students are always expected to write their own essays and complete their own work. Maintaining the applicant’s unique voice is not just ethical — it’s essential to a compelling and honest application.

🎯 Setting Clear Expectations with Families

Private counselors work closely with families to align expectations and reduce stress. Akbar explains how transparency, mutual accountability, and realistic goal setting are key to a successful counseling relationship — ensuring the process stays focused, student-centered, and productive.

🧪 The Role of Test Scores in a Test-Optional World

Despite the growth of test-optional policies, strong SAT/ACT scores can still be a game-changer for students aiming to stand out in a large applicant pool. Akbar breaks it all down while discussing what other factors — like essays, activities, and academic rigor — admissions teams are looking for. 🧬📈

CLICK HERE to schedule a FREE consultation with the Prep Expert Admissions Counseling Team.

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👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚

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Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications

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