How To Navigate College Admissions Without Losing Your Mind—or Your Values

The college admissions journey can feel overwhelming for both students and parents. Between changing requirements, testing debates, and growing pressure to “stand out,” families are often left stressed and uncertain about what truly matters. In this episode of Dollar$ and $ense, Nicole Romito sits down with Mary O’Malley, co-founder of Union Hall Admissions Advising, to bring clarity to this process.

Mary shares how families can shift their focus from chasing prestige to helping students discover who they are and what they want from their education. She explains how early preparation, authentic experiences, and values-based choices can make the admissions process less about checking boxes and more about creating the right fit.

What to expect in this episode:

  • Why college admissions is about more than getting in, and instead about who you become along the way
  • The growing role of testing, extracurriculars, and demonstrated interest
  • How parents can support without overshadowing their child’s journey
  • Strategies for keeping students grounded and authentic in the application process

Related: The Unlikely Link Between Performance Arts and Powerful Leadership in Finance