Explore every episode of #PREPPED: The Test Prep Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for #PREPPED: The Test Prep Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Pub. Date
Title
Duration
06 Feb 2022
College Board's 'SECRET' Test: Earning College Credits Early Using CLEP (w/ David Vise of ModernStates & Freshman Year For Free)
00:25:43
Pulitzer Prize-winner and Executive Director of Modern States, David Vise, joins Naka in a captivating episode discussing how students can take advantage of a lesser-known College Board test that has been around for over 50 years to gain college credit early and save THOUSANDS of dollars in tuition!
The CLEP exam (College-Level Examination Program) is a series of over 30 Pass/Fail tests that ANYONE in pursuit of a degree can take. With a passing score of over 50%, students can gain college credit for entry-level college classes that can be transferred to over 3,000 public universities. Consequently, David saw this as an opportunity to address the largest financial burden in the United States: The College Debt Crisis.
Since the CLEP tests are based on getting credits for "what you know," Modern States flipped the model to getting credits for 'what you can learn.' Through its partnerships with organizations such as the Carnegie Foundation and nationally recognized professors, Modern States has been able to provide free online classes to prepare students of all backgrounds and education levels to gain the knowledge needed to pass the CLEP, earn college credit, save money, and graduate early...all for free!
Discussions include the national debt crisis, the confidence students gain for college by passing the CLEP, and how to strategize your CLEP tests to back up any difficult AP?IB tests!
Our Guest:
David Vise is a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter who worked at The Washington Post for 23 years. He is the author of four books, including The Google Story, published in more than 25 languages.
David received his undergraduate degree and MBA from The Wharton School of University of Pennsylvania and serves as a Senior Advisor at New Mountain Capital.
Show Notes: MODERNSTATES.ORG
Preppedpodcast.com
21 Feb 2022
Starting Your College Search (w/ Nandita Gupta of Enlighten Education Consulting)
00:28:35
A must-listen episode for all parents and students!
The Founder and CEO of Enlighten Education Consulting, Nandita Gupta, joins Naka in a wonderful discussion about the most important first steps when starting your college search! With over 20 years of experience in elite college admissions and consulting, Nandita discusses the institutional criteria that universities prioritize, the immense value of self-discovery early in high school, and the context into which your application is placed based on a student's High School Profile - a document typically sent alongside a student's transcript from guidance counselors.
Dream School Vs. Dream List While having a dream school is ideal, it is more efficient and effective to have a dream list! Regardless of where a student earns admission, the success of a student should not be limited because they didn't get into their first choice. By assembling a dream list, students can maximize their potential and happiness in their future successes!
WTF: What's The FAFSA? https://www.buzzsprout.com/1714782/8436321-wtf-what-s-the-fafsa-feat-ryan-morrissey
Free SAT Preview @ preppedpodcast.com
ttprep.com
06 Mar 2022
Mental Health Matters: A Discussion On High School Mental Health (w/ Max Benezra of South Shore Counseling)
00:19:56
In this #PREPPED episode, Naka is joined by Max Benezra, the Assistant Director of South Shore Counseling and a psychotherapist with expertise in adolescent mental health, to discuss an obvious yet marginalized topic for students: MENTAL HEALTH.
Today, over 70% of high school and college adolescents experience some sort of mental health issues, yet only 18% of those students actually address these problems. This discrepancy is due to many factors ranging from the social stigmas of mental health to not recognizing that a student is struggling with a problem.
Discussions include social media/TikTok, FOMO, and how the challenges students face today have changed over the decades (and into 2022 after the height of the pandemic). Naka and Max also talk about how standardized tests play a role in the mental health of upperclassmen and how these tests are just a component of a successful college student- and not the defining characteristic!
While everyone encourages working hard and "grinding," it is important to "hustle" around good habits, so Max concludes the podcast by examining the biggest signs of mental burnout and encourages students to utilize all the resources around them, such as guidance counselors and school psychologists.
SHOW NOTES
Max Benezra, EdM, MA, LMHC MAX@SSCPSLI.COM
South Shore Counseling and Psychological Services 217 Merrick Road Suite 212 Amityville, NY 11701 (516) 387-6972 sscpsli.com
preppedpodcast.com ttprep.com
13 Jun 2022
Writing Your College Resume (w/ Brendan O'Flaherty of HS2 Academy)
00:24:58
Brendan O'Flaherty returns in this college preparation episode of #PREPPED to help identify key characteristics of effective college resumes. College resumes, serving a different function than professional ones, should be treated as 'living documents' that should be updated semesterly and used as a benchmark of your level of activity in school extracurriculars.
Brendan discusses certain verb usage and layouts to heighten the impact of a resume, which requires a more unique approach that reflects the best qualities of a student.
Brendan last joined Naka on the "College Interview Episode" (Season 3, Episode 6) and now he is back to show us how to connect what is on your resume to your college interview
In this episode you will learn:
How to structure your resume!
How to enhance the effectiveness of your resume using certain verbs!
SHOW NOTES preppedpodcast.com/episodes/episode-30 preppedpodcast.com ttprep.com
22 Jul 2022
So You Want To Do Science Research? (w/ Dr. Serena McCalla of iResearch Corp.)
00:21:41
In this #PREPPED episode, Naka is joined by the 'Godmother of Science Research,' Dr. Serena McCalla (Founder of the iResearch Institute, iResearch Academy, President of the New York State Science and Engineering Fair, Jericho High School Science Research Coordinator, and star of the Emmy-award winning National Geographic Documentary Science Fair)to discuss a fantastic extracurricular opportunity: science research.
Science research uses the scientific method to explore a question that may not have an answer yet and is ideal for students and thinkers who are naturally curious and innovative. Students can investigate a wide array of disciplines from classical areas such as chemistry and biology to newer ones such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.
While many students can take advantage of the science research program within their schools, Naka and Dr. McCalla discuss how students can get involved in other ways, such as mentorship provided by iResearch.
Additionally, they explain tips on managing their time in such a rigorous program, and how impressive awards and prizes can be won through intense competitions such as Regeneron and ISEF. Tune in to explore an extraordinary opportunity for scientifically-driven students to meet other like-minded scholars and contribute to humanity’s most pressing scientific challenges!
So You Want To Be An Actor? The Theater Arts Episode with Broadway Star Derrick Davis
00:20:47
In this special #PREPPED episode, Naka is joined by Broadway star (and Long Island native) Derrick Davis to discuss the path to becoming an actor and studying theater arts in college. Derrick started his journey studying voice at LIU Post, and his career since has spanned iconic roles on stage from Phantom of the Opera to the Lion King.
Derrick shares his advice and tips for the self-taping auditioning process and how to find the type of program that will help students thrive. Meanwhile, Naka grounds the episode with a reminder about how earning good standardized test scores can have additional benefits, such as placing out of freshman-year classes and helping with critical college essays. Derrick's #PREPPED Pro Tip is certain to resonate not only with theater arts students but also with all students striving to accomplish their goals.
About Our Guest:
Derrick Davis is a dynamic and passionate performer of stage and screen. In his exciting theater career, he has held the roles of The Phantom in the 25th Anniversary Tour of The Phantom of the Opera and Mufasa on the Gazelle Tour of Disney’s The Lion King. He has also gone on as Scar and Mufasa in The Lion King and Billy Bigelow in Carousel on Broadway. Regionally Davis starred in Dallas Theater Center’s production of Dreamgirls as Curtis Taylor, Jr., Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Opera Carolina's production of I Dream, and King Triton in The Little Mermaid at Theater Under the Stars.
Show Notes:
@dreamclimber therealderrickdavis.com
ttprep.com preppedpodcast.com for a free Zoom preview of our TestTaker course
So You Want To Be Recruited? (w/ Coaches Steve Panzik and TJ Cleveland)
00:32:11
The Season 4 Finale of #Prepped delivers a spectacular interview focusing on College Sports Recruitment – one of the most pursued avenues in admissions.
Join Naka, Associate Head Men's Basketball Coach TJ Cleveland of the St. John's Red Storm, and Manhasset High School Head Crew Coach Steve Panzik as they break down the recruitment process and dive deep into the expectations of collegiate athletics.
Together, Coach Panzik – from the high school perspective– and Coach Cleveland – from the university side– discuss recruiting and team-building, while Naka takes time to investigate the NCAA sliding scale for grades and test scores, and how colleges position their athletes for success.
Gain insight into topics ranging from identifying which school best fits your athletic and academic needs, to managing relationships that can further your athletic career, to transitioning from high school to college sports – a #PREPPED first!
How To Practice & How To Motivate Students (for the SAT)
00:20:52
Get ready for an invaluable episode of #PREPPED as we take a deep dive into the ultimate guide on PRACTICING for the SATs! In this episode, we'll reveal the top test-taking tips for unlocking your potential and optimizing your performance every time you practice for the SATs.
Naka is joined by Directors Alan Reed and Jeremy Freed as they share their personal classroom anecdotes and proven strategies for staying motivated and focused during SAT practice. Furthermore, they discuss different motivation strategies for parents and students to explore!
From setting goals and building a CONSISTENT routine to overcoming common mistakes and staying committed to your study plan, this #PREPPED episode has you covered!
A simple strategy to get through 1 whole test a week is about 30 minutes a day!
Day 1- Sec 1 Reading 30 minutes
Day 2- Sec 1 Reading 35 minutes
Day 3- Sec 2 Writing 35 minutes
Day 4-Sec 3 No-Calc Math 25 Minutes
Day 5- Sec 4 Math 30 minutes
Day 6- Sec 4 Math 25 minutes
Day 7- DAY OFF
ttprep.com and preppedpodcast.com for a FREE TestTakers course preview
06 Apr 2023
THE FUTURE OF TESTING: THE 2024 DIGITAL SAT (feat. President Frank Pomilla & Director Brian Corridan)
00:19:17
In the Season 5 premiere of #PREPPED: The Test Prep Podcast, Naka welcomes TestTakers President Frank Pomilla and Senior Director Brian Corridan back to the show to discuss the future of the SAT and standardized testing. The College Board is set to launch the new digital SAT domestically in the United States in March 2024, and some students will have a glimpse at the digital version of the PSAT this fall.
Some of the main changes are that the digital SAT will be significantly shorter (particularly in the Reading passages) and that it has an adaptive testing system to get students their accurate scores faster.
The College Board has released a free digital practice test that students can take to familiarize themselves with the new format, and the guests encourage students to remember that while the FORMAT will change to digital, the SKILLS NEEDED are the same.
SHOW NOTES
FREE NIGHT BEFORE THE DIGITAL PSAT RSVP forms.gle/wVBzZuK5dEFuC8oXA
preppedpodcast.com or ttprep.com for a free course preview!
01 May 2023
Getting Great Recommendation Letters (w/ Mrs. Nancy Fleming)
00:22:06
In this episode of #PREPPED, Host Andrew 'Naka' Nanayakkara discusses a critical component of the college application process: recommendation letters. Joining Naka is his own high school English teacher, Mrs. Nancy Fleming, voted 'Most Popular Teacher' at Garden City High School for over 20 consecutive years, who is well-known for writing tremendously valuable recommendation letters.
They discuss the importance of recommendation letters, when and how to ask teachers, who to ask, and how to follow up. They also cover the common mistakes students make when asking for reference letters and how to avoid them. Additionally, they provide tips for parents who want to support their child's efforts to secure reference letters.
Included in this episode's show notes is THE COLLEGE RECOMMENDATION CHECKLIST, a valuable way to organize and strategize by asking your teachers for a college recommendation letter!
What is TESTTAKERS? (w/ President & Founder Frank Pomilla)
00:35:24
After 5 Seasons of #PREPPED: The Test Prep Podcast, we finally dive deep into "What is TestTakers?" with our special guest, TestTakers' President, Frank Pomilla, who shares the founding story and inspiration behind this remarkable educational institution that has been around for over 40 years.
Throughout the discussion, Frank reveals the milestones in TestTakers' evolution and how the company has adapted to changes in the education industry and standardized tests. He emphasizes what sets TestTakers apart from other SAT preparation services, including our commitment to personalized attention and support for students.
The episode explores TestTakers' approach to education, focusing on the interplay between substance and interpersonal aspects to motivate students and achieve long-term success beyond just great SAT test scores. Frank also discusses how TestTakers has adapted to recent changes in the SAT format and the trend towards test-optional admissions.
Several historical and 'celebrity' success stories are shared, highlighting significant improvements in students' SAT scores and the multi-generational loyalty and trust TestTakers has gained over the years.
SAT YOGA: Breathing And Relaxation Techniques To Ease Test Stress!
00:30:16
In this #PREPPED SPECIAL, Naka is joined by Carolyn Carpentiere of CCYOGA to discuss the added benefits of yoga and breathing techniques when it comes to SAT and ACT preparation. The episode concludes (starting at 18:05) with TWO quick guided practices for listeners to engage in before testing!
Mindfulness practices such as yoga and breathing techniques help adjust the body's response to stress over time. Mindfulness can actually increase grey matter and can reduce the size of the amygdala, which is the area of the brain that processes autonomic responses associated with fear and anxiety. Naka and Carolyn talk about the physiological effects of mindfulness and how to incorporate these practices into our education and test-taking.
Especially on standardized tests, getting distracted, feeling anxious, or even rethinking problems from previous sections can be a huge detriment to a score, so the ability to ground oneself and be present in the moment with full focus is an invaluable asset for testing (not to mention for life in general)!
As colleges announce more test-optional policies in response to Covid-19, students are left wondering...is the SAT still important? Join Directors Naka and Jeremy as they discuss how colleges weigh standardized tests and how you can inform your students best!
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
22 Feb 2021
When is the best time to prepare for the SAT?
00:12:58
When is the best time to start preparing your student for the SAT? Is it worth starting your preparation earlier than high school? While in theory that may seem to make sense, it rarely works out! Directors Naka and Jeremy discuss when is the best time to prepare and take the SATs (and if the SAT is curved).
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
25 Feb 2021
What is the BEST way to prep?
00:14:29
With so many options for test preparation out there, what is the best way for students to start their standardized testing journey? Directors Naka and Jeremy discuss the advantages and disadvantages of self-studying, tutoring, and taking a course. Listen to the end for a special #PREPPED offer!
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
03 Mar 2021
My SAT was CANCELED?!?!?!?
00:05:33
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN AN SAT GETS CANCELED?!? Many parents are unsure of what options are available to testers if a testing center closes. In this BONUS EPISODE, Naka discusses important deadlines and strategies to keep in mind if your student's SAT gets canceled.
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
07 Mar 2021
The Week Before The SAT (TestTakers: ENDGAME)
00:07:40
One week until the SAT! Important reminders and advice to keep in mind while studying during the crunch time leading up to the SAT. Directors Alan and Steve join Naka and Jeremy in this episode highlighting how to study during the days leading up to the SAT.
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
11 Mar 2021
How MANY times should I take the SAT? (Superscoring and Score Choice)
00:15:01
2? 3? 5? 10? How many times should students be taking their SATs? In this episode, Directors Naka and Brian Corridan discuss how many times students SHOULD be taking their SATs and what colleges do if you send in more than one score (popular practices among colleges are SUPERSCORING and SCORE CHOICE, these practices alleviate the stress of having to get that great score in one sitting).
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
19 Mar 2021
WHAT'S ON THE SAT? (feat. The President & Founder of TestTakers)
00:20:31
With many changes to the SAT over the past few decades, it is important to understand what students are expected to learn and where to put their energy when preparing.
The President & Founder of TestTakers, Frank Pomilla, and Director Brian Corridan join Naka in this content-filled episode on what students are tested on when they take the SAT!
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
25 Mar 2021
What's a GOOD SAT score?
00:14:14
What is a good SAT score? Many students sign on the morning their scores are released and are anxious or confused because they are wondering "Is this a good score?"
In this episode, Jeremy and Naka discuss what is a 'good' score and other aspects of college admissions. Ultimately, while it is important to set goals, it is even more important to see how far you have come along!
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
08 Apr 2021
SAT v ACT: Which Should I Take?
00:13:35
Is there a better test to start preparing for? In the Season 2 premiere of #PREPPED, Naka, Frank, and Brian not only discuss the similarities in content but also the unique differences in preparation between the SAT and ACT.
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed most.
14 Apr 2021
What's the DEAL with the ACT???
00:15:00
In this episode, Directors Brian, Jeremy, and Naka discuss the four sections (known as "tests") of the ACT while providing some quick tips for students preparing. Ultimately, the test builds on similar concepts that are tested on an SAT, but there are MORE questions and LESS time to beat them on the ACT.
With over 30 years of student success stories, TestTakers provides weekly insight through discussions with counselors and test prep experts in #PREPPED to help students and families succeed.
30 Apr 2021
WTF: What's The FAFSA? (feat. Ryan Morrissey)
00:24:51
In this episode, Naka is joined by Ryan Morrissey of The Retire With Ryan Podcast to discuss how to maximize student aid by understanding the valuable FAFSA form. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid opens October 1st and can help provide some financial aid to students based on several factors discussed in the episode, such as Expected Family Contribution. Ryan shares his insight on how to manage parent and student assets and position your family in the best way to not only make the process easier but also maximize aid received.
In this quick episode, Naka and Jeremy break down the PSAT, which essentially provides students with an introduction to standardized testing. While there are many opportunities to take a PSAT during a high school career (some schools offer the PSAT 8/9, the PSAT 10, and the PSAT/NMSQT- The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), students should REALLY put their energy into the 11th-grade PSAT/NMSQT (ideally, when they are preparing for their SATs anyway). If students do exceptionally well on their 11th grade PSAT/NMSQT they can qualify for recognition and scholarships. Overall, the PSAT gives students a good sense of where they stand as they start their journey to their dream college acceptance.
SHOW NOTES https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt-psat-10
In this episode, Naka and Steve have some fun discussing some of the most recent scandals involving standardized testing.
From the Varsity Blues admissions scandal to the Long Island cheating ring (and even the 'Avengers' stealing the SAT answers from College Board HQ in the 2004 film The Perfect Score), Naka and Steve break down how each scandal has actually improved test security and what to expect when registering for your SAT.
preppedpodcast.com ttprep.com
03 Jun 2021
So You Want An 800 In Math? (feat. Mike of PWN THE SAT)
00:19:34
How do you take an already high SAT math score and make it even higher?
Mike McClenathan of PWN Test Prep and the popular book series PWN THE SAT joins Naka to discuss some important concepts and specific advice for high scorers to keep in mind while in pursuit of the perfect 800 on the SAT Math!
In this episode you will learn:
Why getting a perfect 800 is so hard!
Concepts that appear on some of the hardest problems
How to change the game for yourself if you are missing only a few questions!
Why 'speed runs' in math are a bad idea
SHOW NOTES
PWN the SAT: Math Guide 4th Edition pwntestprep.com preppedpodcast.com ttprep.com
11 Jun 2021
So You Want An 800 on SAT READING/WRITING?
00:28:17
Directors Brian and Jeremy join Naka in this content-driven episode for students aiming to get that perfect 800 on the SAT Evidence-based Reading and Writing. While it is tremendously difficult to get a perfect score on the English portion of the test since there are almost 100 questions and almost no room for error (since the scoring table tends to be less forgiving on average compared to math scoring tables) the directors provide some essential tips and concepts students MUST know to get that elusive 800 on test day. Brian even goes on one of his famous “reading’ rants that every student should hear!
In this episode you will learn:
Why Reading is NOT HARD on the SAT!
Why getting a perfect 800 in English is harder than an 800 in Math!
Grammar concepts students AND ADULTS should know!
18 Jun 2021
AVOIDING CARELESS MSITAKES (feat. Peter Baum)
00:13:56
A MUST-LISTEN FOR ALL PARENTS AND SAT STUDENTS!
Naka is joined by Peter Baum for the SEASON 2 FINALE of #PREPPED: The Test Prep Podcast! Peter is THE premier SAT tutor in the San Francisco Bay Area and has been working with families across the nation for over 32 years. With his years of experience, Pete has a unique way of approaching and clearing up those “silly/careless/big oof” mistakes on the SAT that tend to stagnate scores and lead to frustration.
In this episode you will learn:
How to reduce those careless mistakes on the SAT!
How to diagnose WHY you are missing the problems!
What to do if you get stuck on the ACTUAL SAT!
26 Jul 2021
The Perfect Scorers Podcast: An Interview with 3 Perfect Scorers
00:24:10
In this episode, the SEASON 3 PREMIERE of #PREPPED: The Test Prep Podcast, Naka interviews Jonathan Wu, Aarya Agarwal, and Rhea Rasquinha- 3 Perfect Scoring SAT Students!
Jonathan is part of the Manhasset High School Class of 2022 and is currently searching for his dream school, but he has made the process easier by getting his perfect score early in junior year.
Aarya and Rhea were both part of the Herricks High School Class of 2021; this fall, Aarya will be attending The University of Chicago, and Rhea will be attending Brown University's Program in Liberal Medical Education.
Aarya is involved in historical and economics research and won an international film award, among many other accolades. Rhea was involved in student government and science research and was named a Regeneron semifinalist.
They share their different stories on how they scored perfectly on both the Evidence-Based Reading/Writing and Math sections, while also giving advice on how to stay focused and how to keep standardized testing expectations realistic.
preppedpodcast.com ttprep.com
16 Aug 2021
The Need For Speed (How to Get Faster on the SAT)
00:18:54
If you're struggling to finish any section on the SAT then this episode is for you! Naka is joined by Site Director Alan Reed and an 'OG' of the SAT Prep World Adam Danger (with over 30 years in the world of test prep) to discuss strategies to make sure you finish sections on time during the SAT.
Since math is organized by difficulty, but all weighed equally, make sure to have a realistic target score in mind to keep focusing on nailing the earlier questions! Writing relies heavily on your understanding of the rules, but not every single grammar rule is tested on the SAT, so know which ones are! For Reading, many students struggle with the timing, but knowing disqualifiers and HOW to read properly for the SAT are skills that are needed to achieve success on the SAT!
27 Sep 2021
The Perfect College Candidate (feat. Sasha Chada)
00:25:09
Season 3 continues with a fantastic interview with Sasha Chada, the CEO and Founder of Ivy Scholars. Ivy Scholars is a boutique college candidacy building firm located in Sugar Land, Texas.
Naka and Sasha discuss the important aspects admissions counselors look for in great applications, including how to handle extracurriculars, manage fluctuations in GPA, and make your application stand out!
Sasha is driven by a desire to change students’ lives through the college admissions process. Higher education is a cornerstone of advancement in today’s society, and Sasha wants nothing more than to see students in the college that best sets them up for future success.
Sasha’s vision for Ivy Scholars is to educate, enable, and empower students to achieve the best versions of their lives by exploring their intellectual curiosities, proving their talents, and telling their stories to top-tier admissions committees.
SHOW NOTES ivyscholars.com
ivyscholars.com/essays
ttprep.com
preppedpodcast.com
18 Oct 2021
So You Want To Be A Doctor? (feat. Dr. Sahil Mehta of MedSchoolCoach)
00:24:20
The Pre-Med Episode! FREE PRE-MED GUIDEBOOK IN SHOW NOTES
Naka is joined by Dr. Sahil Mehta, the founder of MedSchoolCoach, to discuss the process and steps involved in the pre-med journey to becoming a doctor!
Discussions about Direct Medical (BS/MD) programs, SATs, MCATs, and internships are discussed as they relate to the applications for getting into (and making the most out of) your dream school.
Dr. Mehta is a practicing Interventional Radiologist specializing in minimally invasive endovascular and percutaneous procedures in order to eliminate cancer, manage pain, stop life-threatening bleeding, and more.
Sahil has been involved in admissions consulting and tutoring for years. As the founder of MedSchoolCoach, he has a hand in thousands of medical school applications. His experience helping applicants of all types navigate the admissions process is unparalleled.
The College Essay Episode (feat. Lisa Antinore Duer of Ad Astra***)
00:24:09
In this episode, Naka is joined by Lisa Antinore Duer of Ad Astra*** to discuss the ins and outs of the college essay. Lisa lends her over 24 years of experience as she walks through how students should approach the college essay, including when to start brainstorming, how to be authentic, and where to look for help when reviewing your essay. Ultimately, the essay is the most unique part of your application and for high-scoring students, it is THE one part of your application that will differentiate you!
Show Notes
COMMON APP PROMPTS https://www.commonapp.org/blog/2021-2022-common-app-essay-prompts
Lisa Antinore Duer, English Enrichment Instructor Ad Astra*** zucca4@aol.com
Free TestTakers Preview @ Preppedpodcast.com
ttprep.com
01 Nov 2021
The College Interview (feat. Brendan O'Flaherty of HS2 Academy)
00:29:36
The interview about college interviewing!
Brendan O'Flaherty of HS2 Academy joins Naka to talk all about college interviewing (in addition to an update on what is going on with standardized testing in California). Brendan guides students and parents through what to expect when it comes to college interviews with admissions counselors or alumni interviewers.
From Zoom interviewing tips to handling questions when you are stumped, this episode covers it all! Make sure to check out preppedpodcast.com for more resources.
Show Notes https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/college-interview-questions
Free TestTakers Preview @ preppedpodcast.com
ttprep.com
08 Nov 2021
When Is Enough...Enough? A Discussion On Expectations and Score Growth
00:21:37
The President of TestTakers, Frank Pomilla, and Director Brian Corridan are back for another informative episode with host Andrew "Naka" Nanayakkara to discuss one of the most difficult aspects of SAT test preparation: when to call it a day.
Discussions include how scores should realistically increase and how to set reasonable expectations for students and parents.
Score growth is NOT linear but a process. While it is important to set goals, it is even more important to stick to your goals and recognize that the improvement students have made reflects their time, energy, and spirit. While scores are important, overtesting students for a few extra points may not be worth it (nor make a difference) when there could be other aspects of the college application to invest their time in!
SHOW NOTES: Preppedpodcast.com ttprep.com
22 Nov 2021
The SAT Diet (feat. Michelle of NutrishMish)
00:12:53
Naka is joined by Michelle of NutrishMish for the Season 3 Finale of #PREPPED!
Everyone knows that test preparation includes aggressive study and practice, but a less-explored aspect of test prep is NUTRITION.
Michelle discusses important nutrients that keep the brain energized, and gives advice on how to maintain your testing endurance through strategic nutrition. Discussions also include how to avoid "crashing" during the test and the importance of hydrating (or pre-hydrating).
Ultimately, what you fuel your body with on test day can be your added advantage -- and you want to take every advantage you can get!
In this #PREPPED SEASON 4 PREMIERE, Host Andrew "Naka" Nanayakkara is joined by Director Brian Corridan and President of TestTakers Frank Pomilla in a conversation about making not just good but GREAT SAT practice materials.
With so many materials out there for students to use for their SAT preparation, it is important to sift through the 'noise' and focus on what makes GREAT SAT material, and how BAD material will reinforce BAD habits.
Discussion includes why certain types of WRONG answers must appear in the choices, how the SAT formats its passages, and how test writers need to check their own hubris.
Join us for a comprehensive discussion on how to make the best test materials for students and how TestTakers approaches great material writing for our students.
SHOW NOTES ttprep.com preppedpodcast.com
31 Jan 2022
Director Discussion: The New DIGITAL SAT Announcement!
00:12:00
In this bonus 'Director Discussion' episode, Naka is joined by the TestTakers Directors as they weigh in on one of the biggest headlines of the year so far, the new DIGITAL SAT! Debuting in the USA in early 2024, this new Digital SAT will first be taken by current freshmen (Class of '25). Directors Brian and Jeremy discuss the format of the new test and what to expect when it comes to 'adaptive testing' based on College Board's announcement. Director Alan discusses the challenges of taking a test on a computer or tablet and what students can expect going into test day, while Director Steve gives great advice on how the Class of '25 can avoid feeling like 'guinea pigs' and make the most of the new testing situation by getting a head start!
Show Notes preppedpodcast.com ttprep.com
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