On episode 579, our friend Megan Dorsey shares her 4th Adventures by Disney adventure this time exploring Morocco exploring Casablanca to glamping in the Sahara Desert and camel rides to a beautiful Oasis. Featuring: Adventures By Disney – Morocco 4th Adventure by Disney trip Husband and 18 year old son Casablanca arrival Favorite meals The Switzer…

It’s time for college applications! How do we strategize with our college apps to make sure we are applying for the schools we want and not wasting time and effort on our lowest priorities. Erin provides a sample of her College Checklist to help decide what schools to apply to, how to keep them all organized, and the way Erin likes to prioritize sc…

A listener writes in with a question about how to prep for the SAT/ACT on the cheap. Megan uses her expert advice to go through a variety of resources and help vet what might be helpful and what might be a mistake. Erin shares her own stress with taking a standardized exam and trying to piece together various resources. What resources might work fo…

On episode 578, Kate Merrow takes a cruise and Disney World trip celebrating her beating cancer. Featuring: Big celebration for beating Cancer Husband, Daughter and parents join Royal Caribbean Cruise Toe injury tests the medical staff One night at Drury near Disney Springs Jaleo and drone show Dreams That Soar Caribbean Beach Resort Paddlefish and…

This may be our most controversial episode ever. Megan shares the importance of style guides and Erin throws a fit. Regardless, knowing what a style guide is and how to use one is a necessary skill for any student. What do you think about style guides argument? The various guides are linked down below. APA Style Guide MLA Style Guide OWL Purdue Gra…

On episode 577, my cousin Heather shares her unforgettable trip to Disneyland Paris, featuring Spencer’s big 11-year-old adventure, premier access, and magical moments from the Main Street Electrical Parade drone show to navigating the Parisian trains! Featuring: Spencer’s big 11 year old big trip Disneyland Hotel Travel from Paris to Disneyland Be…

Yes, the all-caps is intentional–Erin is a HUGE fan of school supplies. So much so that she even wrote an entire blog post about it (here is that post)! What are your favorite school supplies? What are the things Erin was right-on about? What was a miss? Let’s chat pens, pencils, notebooks, and everything else! The post 538: Short Summer Series: Er…

On episode 576, first time on the podcast for Shawn Lenny sharing his 50th birthday trip Disney World with his family. Turns out he’s the Cool Dad for all the great planning and tips he learned on the podcast. Featuring: 50th birthday celebration Full Stink family 6 nights at Caribbean Beach Raglan Road, Via Napoli barely make it and get in Remy Pl…

Megan introduces us to the big one–the Fiske Guide–where you can find a ton of information about colleges. Find out the history, the stories that make the colleges unique, and hear from ACTUAL students. Fiske guide is great for research but also fun to have around and flip through! The post 537: Short Summer Series: Megan–Fiske Guide appeared first…

On episode 575, Kayleen Stunz shares her Disney World family adventure, featuring a stay at The Boardwalk DVC, unforgettable dining experiences like Hoop Dee Doo to the Dolphins Blue Zoo, thrilling first-time rides for her granddaughter including Tiana’s Bayou. Featuring: The Boardwalk DVC stay – daughter and grand daughter Hoop Dee Doo, horseback …

Want to get to know yourself a bit better? Curious what careers might be best for you? How do you determine what you might want to major in during your time in college? Erin shares a variety of personality tests for fun (and science)! O-NET MAPP VIA Strengths cards VIA Strengths DISC ENNEAGRAM cards – Erin’s favorite! The post 536: Short Summer Ser…

In this week’s episode, Amy Rhodes has a big family celebration with a couple of hidden dining gems, fun park experiences that all comes together for a magical trip. Join us on a magical journey as a big family of 13 embarks on an unforgettable adventure at Disney World! Staying in a spacious Saratoga 2-bedroom suite, they celebrate Mom’s special d…

Megan is sharing a special book that is perfect for those who aren’t sure what colleges they might be interested in. Colleges That Change Lives by Loren Pope covers some great colleges that might not be known because they are not at the top of the problematic US News rankings. These colleges will provide a great education and a life-changing experi…

On episode 573, we are thrilled to welcome Tammy Whiting, the esteemed author of “The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruises.” Tammy shares her expert insights through three captivating top 10 lists: the 10 mistakes to avoid on board a Disney cruise, the 10 must-see experiences you don’t want to miss, and the 10 fascinating discoveries she made during …

Erin’s back with more tech stuff for your summer resources! Habit trackers, anti-distraction apps, and an app to help you get out of bed! Understood.org Habitica Finch I can’t wake up! Cold Turkey FB erradicator The post 534: Short Summer Series: Erin Suggests Websites and Apps appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 572, follow my pals Dan and Matt as they recount their meticulously planned college graduation adventure to Disney World. They’ll take you through their carefully crafted itinerary, balancing thrilling attractions with some great extra’s. You’ll hear how an experienced master planner maximized fun and exploration in our happy place. Feat…

Spending your summer doing some test prep? Megan tells us why it is important to check out the SAT & ACT Official Guides. Get yourself ready for the test if you are a junior and if you are a senior, it’s crunch time! The post 533: Short Summer Series: Megan–SAT & ACT Official Guides appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

Episode 571 is the second part of Natalie O’Malley’s enchanting honeymoon adventure at Disney World! In this episode, Natalie and Patrick share their magical experiences, starting with a delightful breakfast at Topolino’s. Discover the whimsical “Smellaphants on Parade” and Patrick’s top ride picks. Explore the fascinating family crests in EPCOT an…

Whether you are traveling to visit colleges, attending a summer program, or just enjoying some time with family, it is good to travel with the right gear. In today’s episode, Erin shares some of her favorite travel stuff. Many of these items are things most students can also take with them to college. Power cube Charger brick Suction cup cell phone…

On episode 570, we review Natalie O’Malley’s magical honeymoon at Disney World’s Shades of Green Resort! From a newbie husband’s first-time experiences to unforgettable dining at California Grill, Nomad Lounge, and more, they rate every moment from 0-10. Highlights include a solo adventure at Animal Kingdom, delicious bites at Columbia Harbor House…

You may have noticed the list of “new Ivys” from Forbes this spring. In today’s episode, Megan discusses two resources with a similar approach: Greene’s Guides: Public Ivies & Hidden Ivies. These books highlight “how to get an Ivy League ... Read More » The post 531: Short Summer Series: Megan–Greene’s Guides: Public Ivies & Hidden Ivies appeared f…

On episode 569, my good friend Wendy Fox shares her top 10 tips for non-park day activities with her grandsons. This episode offers a fresh perspective on enjoying Disney World beyond the parks, perfect for those looking to add variety to their vacation. Wendy also shares highlights from her recent trips, including a great Copper Creek resort upgra…

In this episode, Erin shares some of her favorite podcasts. No Stupid Questions — Research psychologist Angela Duckworth, the author of “Grit” and tech / sports executive Mike Maughan ask lots of questions. Hidden Brain looks into the underlying patterns ... Read More » The post 530: Short Summer Series: Erin Suggests Podcasts appeared first on The…

On episode 568, Matt and Krystle Wooley from the “Married to a Disney Addict” podcast recently joined me for a fun and wide-ranging discussion about all things Disney World. As self-proclaimed Disney addicts and geeks, Matt and Krystle shared some fantastic insights and tips from their years of Disney experience. A few key highlights: Planning Tips…

Megan’s resource for the week is a book that was very influential to her early in her career: The Gatekeepers by Jacques Steinberg. This non-fiction work reads like a story and follows admissions officer Ralph Figaroa through a season of ... Read More » The post 529: Short Summer Series: Megan–The Gatekeepers by Jacques Steinberg appeared first on …

On episode 567, Amanda Filippone shares her sisters and son’s best friends trip where they tackled the Four Park Challenge and had an epic 23.5 hour day including runDisney’s Springtime Surprise, Dapper Day, Winterland Mini Golf and dinner at a new restaurant in Disney Springs. Featuring: April Spring break, 10 day trip Sisters and best friends tri…

We’ve made it to June! Hang in there if you have a few more weeks of school. We typically do shorter episodes in the summer and this year, Megan and Erin will take turns sharing different resources to help you ... Read More » The post 528: Short Summer Series: Erin Suggests Books appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 566, long time listener Bill Carmichael shares his stay at Grand Floridian, compares Citricos to Narcousee’s and we opine on many things at Disney World. Featuring: Grand Floridian Resort His top 3 dark rides Some changes at WDW we’re not happy with Citricos and Narcousee’s Our ‘Ohana controversy Bill’s favorite meal on the trip Flower a…

Megan and Erin did some reading and have a book report on The Price You Pay for College: An Entirely New Road Map for the Biggest Financial Decision Your Family Will Ever Make by Ron Lieber. What does this book cover? ... Read More » The post 527: The Price You Pay For College appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 565, more tips and fun with Dan and Holly Austin as they share their families Spring Break trip to Disney World. Featuring: Large family 4 young ones stay at Lake Buena Vista Resort and Spa off site Coca Cola store Soarin’ chat A great Crush the Turtle joke and Noah’s question Moana with the Austins Dolphin trivia show Good Connections b…

Students are told that dropping a class will ruin their future prospects–the dreaded W on the transcript is the scarlet letter. Erin argues that sometimes dropping a class is the best and most strategic choice. She also discusses what other ... Read More » The post 526: Drop That Class! appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 564, Dan and Holly Austin share their families Spring Break trip to Disney World. Featuring: Large family 4 young ones stay at Lake Buena Vista Resort and Spa off site Arrival – Gideons rope drop, Geiser Point, Hoop De Doo ‘Ohana, Easter at Grand Floridian, Grand Floridian Cafe AK – Wilderness Explorers, Tusker House Met up with Pat and …

Why does this college application question elicit blank stares from students? How do we help students to figure out what they might bring to the college experience or what sets them apart from other applicants? Megan and Erin discuss how ... Read More » The post 525: College Essay Question: “What Will You Bring to the College?” appeared first on Th…

On episode 563, our friends Glen, Rebecca, Amanda and Torie join together with their families and enjoy Disney World during their Spring Break trip. Featuring: Geekin’ kids Spring Break trip Beach Club vs. Boardwalk TRex – rough one Summer House Splitsville Hanging out at Geyser Point Whispering Canyon A bit of disappointment at Beaches & Cream Gre…

Megan is back from a whirlwind tour of college visits and is sharing her notes and secret tips. When should you go? Is it worth it to time your visit to coincide with their “special” day? Lots of tips like ... Read More » The post 524: Tips for Visiting Colleges: Notes from Megan’s Recent College Visits appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 562, father and son Disney World trip including French Quarter resort, four park challenge and several firsts for Andy’s son. Featuring: French Quarter Spring Break Four park challenge Boma breakfast Boathouse Pizza Rizzo Lobster tail in a festival booth TRex with Geeks A little pixie dust in HS First time on Tower of Terror and Oga’s Be…

How do you get plugged-in? What goals should you have for socialization? What factors should you consider before accepting a delayed admission? What questions should you be asking? What should you do prior to your delayed start? Megan and Erin ... Read More » The post 523: Spring Start / Summer Start / Transer Students: What to do when you don’t en…

On episode 561, mosiac glass crafts, mini Legos and other fun extras on a 10 night 3 resort split stay with Julie Dylingowski Featuring: 10 night Split Stay in January Port Orleans Riverside, Riviera and AK Jambo Princess Room Boma breakfast, Raglan Road, Topolino dinner twice Biergarten, ‘Ohana breakfast, Scat Cat Yee Ha Bob, Primo Piatta, Bar Riv…

Maybe you are interested in participating in your sport in college. Or maybe you haven’t thought about it at all. Or maybe you are confused as to what the Divisions mean. Wherever you are in the college athletics process, Megan ... Read More » The post 522: NCAA & Athletics in College appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 560, John brings his wife for the first time to Disney World staying at Port Orleans French Quarter, great food, horseback riding and the Wild Africa Trek. Featuring: Wife’s first time to Disney World Port Orleans French Quarter Homecoming on arrival Steakhouse 71, Flame Tree BBQ Yak and Yeti Geyser Point Raglan Road Wild Africa Trek – T…

Approach with Caution! When you see these red flags, it may be a sign that the college on your list could be more of a gamble than you were looking for. These are factors to watch for as you research ... Read More » The post 521: Warning Signs when Researching Colleges appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 559, lots of sweets reviewed with Samantha Carpin and some new things for her Mom to try on their Caribbean Beach trip. Featuring: Mother/Daughter trip Caribbean Beach Chocolate Carmel Pretzel cookie Center Town Market Citrus Swirl Kitchen Sink cookie Proper fish and chips Rapunzel sundae Of course Gideons cookies cookie of the month – E…

Everyone wants to get into a “good college,” but if we don’t rely on rankings, what are some ways prospective students can tell if a college is good? Megan shares the things she looks for including specific numbers that might ... Read More » The post 520: How Can I Tell if a College Is “Good”? appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 557, I chat with author Susan Veness about her 2nd edition release of her book Disney World Hacks. Featuring: Susan and husband are traveling the country in an RV Her history with Disney World How she got started writing books about WDW Hidden secrets WDW Lingo How to beat the crowds Tips you may never have thought of Questions from our …

On episode 557, I reflect on the last 10 years of rides, attractions, food and podcasting with my friends and fellow podcasters Toni-Ann Zarcone and Dave Jongeward from the Disney Crush podcast. We review what I miss and what’s been added to the parks for rides, attractions, food and restaurants over the last 10 years of podcasting about Disney Wor…

Some colleges do their curriculum in very different ways. Megan and Erin talk about some of these programs, their features, and what students might enjoy these colleges. Some of these you may never have heard of but could be your ... Read More » The post 519: Unique College Programs appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.…

On episode 556, Chris Futrell and I review the recent bracket polls Chris ran in our Facebook group to determine our Geekin’ families favorite lounges. We reviewed our surprises, how the 64 lounges were chosen for the brackets and discuss the sweet 16 favorites. Reach Momma and Auntie Judy for trip planning – TravelinTiaras@gmail.com Contribute to …

What do we mean when we ask students to research colleges? What information is helpful? What are some good tools to get started? More importantly, WHY is this information relevant? The post 518: What We Mean When We Suggest You “Research Colleges” appeared first on The College Prep Podcast.Door Megan Dorsey & Erin Wilson

On episode 555, Marcy Valiquette and her large family of 4 boys stay in their RV at Fort Wilderness, Cirque du Solie, four park challenge and favorites for the whole family. Featuring: Marcy and her family of 4 boys Live in a 39 foot RV traveling the country and based in FL for the Winter Campsites at Fort Wilderness Asked Margita and Disney recent…

You might be getting invited to fancy conferences or thinking about travel or camps–are these opportunities worth it? What can students do to make an impact over the summer? Megan and Erin share their suggestions for what students can do ... Read More » The post 517: Looking Forward to Summer- Suggestions for Students appeared first on The College …