College Admissions: Finding the Perfect Fit for Every Student (ep. 73)

By Nicole Young on September 24, 2025

Episode 73 of the Dollar$ and $ense: Creating Your Fulfilled Life Podcast with Nicole Romito

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

Connect with Nicole Romito:

Connect with Mary O’Malley:

About Our Guest:

Mary O’Malley is the co-founder of Union Hall Admissions Advising, an educational consulting firm that helps students and families navigate the high school and college admissions process. With a background in college counseling at the Latin School of Chicago and degrees from Knox College and Northwestern University, Mary brings a compassionate, straightforward approach that empowers students to stay authentic and confident throughout their journey.

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