In this episode, hosts Nicole and Muskan walk students and families through one of the most emotionally charged parts of the college admissions process: waiting for decisions—and making sense of them once they arrive.

They start with practical guidance for the waiting period, including how often to check portals and emails, why weekends can feel misleading, and why it’s important not to compare your timeline to friends or online speculation. Nicole and Muskan also address how to process denials with perspective, reminding students that a rejection—regardless of a school’s perceived “tier”—does not define future outcomes or predict results from other colleges.

As decisions roll in, the conversation shifts to what comes next: researching schools more deeply, visiting campuses, and navigating tough choices between very different options—such as BS/MD programs versus Ivy League paths, or specialized dental programs versus top pre-med tracks. The hosts emphasize the value of seeking trusted guidance from mentors, counselors, and older students currently attending these schools.

They break down how to make thoughtful, grounded decisions using criteria that matter most—academic fit, research and clinical opportunities, advising structures, cost and scholarships, distance from home, campus culture, safety, and logistics like housing, meal plans, and transportation. Listeners are also guided through how to have productive, intentional conversations with parents, set expectations, and create shared systems—like spreadsheets and timelines—to keep the process organized and collaborative.

With May 1st Decision Day approaching, this episode offers clarity, structure, and reassurance for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the final stretch of the college admissions journey.

🎧 Tune in for actionable advice, grounded perspective, and a reminder that there is more than one “right” path forward.

When should students start SAT or ACT prep—and how do they decide which test is right for them? In this episode, Nicole and Muskan break down the strategy behind smart testing, not just more testing.

They walk through an ideal testing timeline, how SAT/ACT dates fit into college list planning and essay writing, and what students should consider before signing up for another exam. From choosing between the SAT and ACT to understanding superscoring and test-optional strategies, this episode offers practical guidance to help families plan with confidence and avoid unnecessary stress.

Whether you’re a sophomore planning ahead or a junior deep in testing season, this episode will help you make informed, intentional decisions about standardized testing.

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

Tune in now !🎧 #CollegeApplications #CollegeTips #Podcast #Admissions

Receiving a waitlist or deferral decision can feel confusing and overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Moon Prep counselors Nicole and Muskan break down what waitlist and deferral decisions really mean, how different schools handle them, and what students should do next.

From understanding waitlist movement and deferral timelines to writing an effective letter of continued interest, this episode walks through actionable next steps, important deadlines (including National Decision Day), and common mistakes to avoid. Nicole and Muskan also discuss how to assess your other options, gather meaningful updates, and move forward with confidence—no matter the final outcome.

Whether you’re navigating uncertainty or supporting a student through the process, this episode offers clear guidance, reassurance, and practical advice during a critical moment in the admissions cycle.