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Southern Universities: Why Applications are Surging and How to Stand Out
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Meet Your Panelists
Julia Spaht
Senior Private Counselor
Julia has sat on both sides of the process, as a Director of Admissions and as the teacher and writing coach who helps students get ready for it. Over nearly two decades she has guided students to Princeton, Duke, USC, and beyond, and she is known for the encouragement she brings to students who need it most.
Kristin Sartelle
Director, College Bound Campus Tours
Kristin Sartelle is an experienced admissions and recruiting professional with a background spanning college admissions, professional recruitment, and student engagement. She began her career as an Admission Counselor at Birmingham-Southern College, where she worked closely with students as they explored their academic interests and college goals. She later held recruiting roles in the legal and energy sectors, further developing her expertise in evaluating candidates and helping individuals identify opportunities aligned with their strengths and aspirations.
In this webinar, you’ll learn:
The South has become one of the most dynamic regions in college admissions, with many universities experiencing significant growth in applications—and, in turn, increased selectivity. In this webinar, we’ll partner with College Bound Campus Tours and explore which Southern colleges have seen the biggest shifts in application volume and admissions rates, what is driving the surge in interest, and what makes these institutions so appealing to students. We’ll spotlight the distinctive academic, social, and campus cultures that define Southern universities, from spirited athletics and vibrant campus life to strong academics, expansive campuses, and growing national profiles.
We’ll also take a closer look at what it takes to stand out in an increasingly competitive applicant pool. How can students demonstrate genuine interest and fit? What role do scholarships and merit aid incentives play? You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of the changing Southern admissions landscape and practical strategies for approaching these colleges thoughtfully and strategically.