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Ask the Experts

8 Predictions That Will Shape 2026 College Admissions

Thursday, January 15, 2026 | 7PM ET
Natalie Gallagher
Guidewell Education
Drew Heilpern
Summit Educational Group
Jed Applerouth
Applerouth Education
Josh Davis
ESM Prep UK
(soon-to-be Guidewell Global)
Lisa Bain Carlton
ESM Prep - College MatchPoint

The New Realities of College Admission

College admissions are shifting fast. Test-optional is becoming test-preferred, flagship publics are more competitive than ever, and AI is changing how essays are reviewed. With rising competition across majors and shifting regional trends, this webinar will clarify what’s changing and how your student can plan strategically.

8 Predictions That Will Shape 2026 College Admissions

Stay ahead of changes that could redefine your student’s chances.
Thursday, January 15 | 7PM ET
Can’t make it live? No problem!
Sign up anyway, and we’ll send you the recording.

What Your Family Needs to Know Now

Clear guidance to navigate a fast-changing admissions landscape.

How Testing Is Really Changing

Understand the shift from test-optional to test-preferred and what scores mean in a world of straight As.

What AI Means for Essays

Learn how colleges are adapting and why live writing and authentic voice matter more than ever.

The New Rules of Selectivity

See how competition for certain majors, rising demand at flagship publics, and regional shifts are reshaping college lists.

Your Grade-Specific Action Plan

Get clear next steps so your student can plan strategically—not reactively.

Help Your Student Thrive This Admissions Cycle

Meet the Panel

Moderator
Natalie Gallagher
Guidewell Education
President

Natalie leads Guidewell Education with a clear focus on innovation and student impact. She spent nearly 11 years at Applerouth Tutoring Services in executive roles, including CEO and COO, guiding organizational growth and academic quality. She holds a J.D. from Yale Law School and a B.A. in Math, Economics, and Religion from Emory University.

Guest Panelist
Drew Heilpern
Summit Educational Group
Academic Success & Testing Expert

As Summit’s Chief Brand Ambassador, Drew guides families through academic and test prep strategies tailored to diverse learning profiles. With a Ph.D. in Immunology, years of tutoring experience, and expertise in cognitive science and student motivation, he crafts solutions that build both confidence and performance.

Guest Panelist
Jed Applerouth
Applerouth Education
Founder, Educational Psychologist, & Test Prep Expert

Jed is a nationally recognized expert on the SAT, ACT, and PSAT. A Nationally Certified Counselor with a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, he applies research in cognition, memory, and motivation to develop highly effective test prep methods and keeps tutors equipped with the latest strategies and materials.

Guest Panelist
Josh Davis
ESM Prep UK (soon-to-be Guidewell Global)
Senior College Coach

Josh has over a decade of experience guiding students through highly selective admissions. Since founding ESM Prep in the UK in 2015, he has supported students worldwide with academic planning, essays, and interviews. A Yale graduate and former varsity athlete, he also brings experience from Yale’s Admissions Office and expertise in athletic recruitment.

Guest Panelist
Lisa Bain Carlton
ESM Prep - College MatchPoint
Founder & Senior College Coach

With over 25 years of experience, Lisa helps students—especially those with learning differences and mental health challenges—find right-fit colleges that align with their academic, personal, and financial needs. She also mentors new counselors through UC Irvine and serves on IECA’s Executive Committee.

Secure Your Spot for the 2026 Admissions Forecast

Learn what matters most now—and what to do next.

Looking for Personalized Support?

Schedule a call with an Academic Advisor or call us at (866) 878-1491.