• FREE LIVE WEBINAR

Reading Your Application, Transcripts and Test Scores Like an Admission Officer

  • Thursday, April 23, 2026
  • 4-5 PM PST/7-8 PM EST

Join our former admissions officer and senior counselor for an inside look at how colleges actually evaluate the academic sections of your application — and what you can do to put your best foot forward.

We’ll cover:

  • How AOs evaluate course rigor within your school’s context.
  • The “secret life” of your transcript: what grades really signal.
  • Deciding whether to submit scores in a test-optional world.
  • How your high school profile impacts the evaluation of your GPA.
  • Strategies for narrating academic “hiccups” or growth in your application.
  • Can't make it live? A recording will be available within 1–2 business days.

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MEET YOUR HOSTS

Our Facilitators

A man with short brown hair and a beard smiles while standing outdoors, leaning against the side of a building. He is wearing a light blue polo shirt.

Tom Campbell

Former Admissions Officer · College Essay Guy

With 11+ years of admissions experience, Tom brings a rare insider perspective from both sides of the process, including roles as an admissions officer at the College of the Holy Cross and Assistant Dean at Pomona College.

He’s helped shape policies like test-optional admissions and supported students nationwide in gaining admission to highly selective schools.

Tom specializes in helping students turn “I have no idea what to write” into essays that feel authentic, compelling, and unmistakably them.

Known for his warm, student-centered approach, he makes a high-stakes process feel more human (with the occasional nod to Kacey Musgraves and breakfast burritos).

Tillie Gottlieb

Senior College Counselor · College Essay Guy

With 15+ years of experience, Tillie brings a global, insider perspective to college admissions, with a background spanning admissions, elite boarding schools, private counseling in Southeast Asia, and leadership as a Co-Director of College Counseling in the Bay Area.

She’s helped students get into top colleges nationwide—but more importantly, she helps them build applications that actually make sense and feel like them. Tillie specializes in guiding students—especially in STEM, business, social sciences, and the arts—toward clear, cohesive, and compelling stories.

Known for her sharp eye, deep listening, and sense of humor, she makes a high-stakes process feel a lot more manageable. Filmmaker, former ballet dancer, game show competitor, and guac enthusiast—she brings both creativity and real talk to the process.