Flashpoint Academy is a new school in Chicago, Illinois, that caters to those who are serious about recording technology, film, computer animation and game technology. Howard Tullman describes how the cutting-edge world of high-tech media requires practicing professors.

The Flashpoint Campus occupies 70,000 square feet in downtown Chicago. Students are hands-on using state-of-the art technology that is in use in the industry on a daily basis. Flashpoint is designed to get a student in and out in two years. While some students may choose to go on to obtain a four-year degree, many will be in a position to immediately enter the industry.

Students at Flashpoint work together and bring all the disciplines together to build their portfolios hone their talents. They work 40+ hours a week on real projects learning real skills.

Direct from Tiffin, Ohio, Lindsey Sooy, Director of Admissions at Heidelberg College, tells CappCast the advantages of a small, rural college. Heidelberg College is a self-supporting community that exists in harmony with the small town of Tiffin. Part of the Ohio Athletic Conference, Heidelberg has very competitive sports with over 45% of the students involved in sports. Student athletes can even major in sports management. Students are very well-rounded and highly involved on campus in one of the 70 different student groups and clubs.

Famous for the Center for Historic Military Archeology students have the opportunity to study in a former civil war prison on Johnson's Island in Lake Erie. Heidelberg is also well-known for forensic science.

Lindsay Sooy, Director of Admissions from Heidelberg College, explains that small college campuses can offer a level of intimacy and nurturing that is simply not available on a larger campus. Students enjoy small class sizes and easy access to professors. It is not uncommon for faculty to actually list their home number on their syllabus.

Classes at large schools are often taught by graduate assistants instead of tenured professors. At a small school the classes are usually taught by professors.

The differences are even apparent during the admissions process. Small schools tend to spend much more time on each application.

Most admissions professionals agree that visiting colleges is one of the most important parts of the college search process. It is important to start looking during your junior year. Gary Rold, Director of Admissions for Elmhurst College, tells juniors to even visit schools that may not be on their list. It's good practice and it gets you ready for visits to your top choices.

Ask the tough questions and listen carefully to the answers. Ask about specific programs, financial commitments and try to get past any positive spins the admissions department might be presenting.

Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Ill is the perfect place for students who have no idea what they want to do with their lives. Elmhurst understands that, as a high school student, you may not have your whole life planned out. They offer a unique curriculum that helps you learn more about yourself and how you might help make the world a better place.

Located just a short distance from Chicago, Ill, Elmhurst offers an intimate setting with a refreshing perspective for students. They offer a variety of practical degrees. Gary Rold, director of admissions, invites musicians to apply and learn more about their Music Business degree.

In 2003 the US Supreme Court upheld the right of colleges and universities to consider race in the admissions process. This landmark case provides a backdrop for our discussion with Jon Boeckenstedt, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management for DePaul University in Chicago, Ill. The decision to allow colleges to consider race stems from the idea that diversity will improve education and, therefore, proactively building a diverse student body is an important part of the admissions process.

In spite of the advantages that diversity brings to campuses, Jon outlines why colleges must make sure that race is not the only factor in considering applicants and that in no case should unqualified minorities be given an advantage in the admissions process.