🎙️In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nick Galli, an Admissions Counselor at Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech), located in sunny Melbourne, Florida 🌴. Florida Tech is nationally recognized for its STEM-focused programs, commitment to hands-on learning, and required standardized testing admissions policy — a perspective not often heard today. Whether you’re aiming for engineering, aerospace, cybersecurity, or marine biology, this conversation is packed with information that can help students and families make more informed decisions.

⭐️ Top 4 Takeaways from the Episode:

📊 Florida Tech Requires SAT/ACT Scores

Unlike many institutions that have moved to test-optional, Florida Tech still requires standardized test scores for all applicants. Nick breaks down how the scores are used alongside GPA and why they matter in the university's objective review process. This is crucial insight for students applying to schools that still emphasize testing. 📝

🚀 A Premier STEM Institution with Real-World Impact

With top-tier programs in aerospace engineering, oceanography, computer science, and aviation, Florida Tech is a destination for students who want a hands-on, research-driven education. Students often get involved in research and internships starting in their first year.

🎓 Holistic Review, But With a Focus on Academic Strength

While essays and letters of recommendation are optional, Florida Tech still looks at course rigor, grade trends, and school context. They also support international applicants and evaluate transcripts carefully across different grading systems.

💡 Support for Neurodiverse Students and a Tight-Knit Campus Community

Florida Tech offers structured academic support for students with IEPs or 504 plans and promotes a close-knit, inclusive environment where small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship make a real difference. 🧠

🏫 Fast Facts About Florida Tech:

📍 Located in Melbourne, FL, minutes from the Atlantic coast 🌊

🎓 Around 3,000 undergraduate students

🔬 Offers over 50 STEM-focused majors, from mechanical engineering to forensic psychology

🛩 Home to one of the top aerospace and aviation programs in the country

💰 Ranked highly for return on investment among private universities

🎧 Why This Episode Matters:

Whether you're a student drawn to STEM, a parent looking for transparency in admissions policies, or a counselor guiding students toward career-ready programs, this episode offers a refreshing and honest perspective. Nick Galli’s advice is straightforward, practical, and applicable to students of all backgrounds.

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👉 This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com 🎯📚

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Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications

If you're looking for helpful tips and insights for the college admissions process, check out my book by clicking the links below:

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343. Florida Tech - Nick Galli - Admissions Counselor

The College Admissions Process Podcast