260. Amherst College - Matt McGann - Dean of Admission & Financial Aid

The College Admissions Process Podcast

🎙️In this I had the pleasure of speaking with Matt McGann, the Dean of Admission & Financial Aid at Amherst College. Whether you’re a prospective student, a parent, or an educator, this episode is packed with valuable information that will help you navigate the college admissions process with confidence.

🔑 Top 4 Takeaways:

The Holistic Review Process at Amherst 📚:

Matt McGann provides an in-depth explanation of how Amherst College approaches its holistic review process. He emphasizes that the admissions team looks beyond grades and test scores, considering each applicant’s unique experiences, attributes, and potential contributions to the college community. This approach ensures that each student is evaluated as a whole person, not just as a set of numbers.

Amherst’s Commitment to Student Success 🎓:

With a retention rate of 97%, well above the national average, Amherst College is clearly doing something right when it comes to student satisfaction and success. Matt highlights the strong sense of community, the robust support services, and the rich offerings that make students want to stay year after year. He also discusses specific programs designed to help students transition smoothly from high school to college life.

Strategic Goals and Vision for the Future 🌟:

Looking ahead, Amherst College has ambitious plans for the next five to ten years. Matt shares insights into the college’s strategic goals, including enhancing academic programs, expanding diversity and inclusion initiatives, and fostering a dynamic campus environment that continues to attract top-tier students from around the world.

Tips for Crafting a Standout Application ✍️:

Matt offers valuable advice for students crafting their college applications. He discusses what makes a personal statement or essay stand out, how to effectively showcase extracurricular activities and leadership roles, and what to consider when requesting letters of recommendation. His tips are practical and actionable, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the midst of the college application process.

🎧 Episode Highlights:

Exciting Developments on Campus:

Matt shares updates on new projects and developments at Amherst College, including upcoming facilities and program enhancements that prospective students should be aware of.

Understanding Amherst’s Admissions Goals:

Learn about Amherst’s institutional priorities, including their target number of incoming freshmen and how they manage the high volume of applications received each year.

The Role of Standardized Testing 📝:

Find out how Amherst has adjusted its standardized testing policies, including the current weight of SAT/ACT scores in the application process and the percentage of accepted students who did not submit test scores.

Support for Students with IEPs and 504 Plans:

Matt discusses the resources available at Amherst College to support students with IEPs or 504 plans, ensuring they continue to thrive in a supportive and accommodating environment.

Final Advice for Students and Parents:

To wrap up the episode, Matt shares his top three pieces of advice for students and their parents as they prepare for the college admissions journey. These tips are essential listening for anyone looking to gain a competitive edge in the application process.

🏫 About Amherst College:

Amherst College is a prestigious liberal arts college located in Amherst, Massachusetts. Known for its rigorous academics, vibrant community, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, Amherst consistently ranks among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1 and a broad array of academic and extracurricular offerings, Amherst provides an environment where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom.