
Biography
College Selection was founded to support, guide, and advise students and their families in determining the right college choice. College Selection founder, Daniel Gallagher, has over 25 years of higher education experience in all areas of enrollment, including college admissions and financial aid. Daniel is unique in this field because he led the admissions decision-making process for many years, has reviewed tens of thousands of applications, and will provide sound advice on matters related to college admissions. Daniel worked at six different universities, including the highly selective Stevens Institute of Technology and New York Medical College. Daniel’s honest insights, straightforward advice, and professional manner endear him to his clients.
My Approach to Supporting College-Bound Students
I had a wonderful college experience. The academic knowledge, social activities, and professional growth I enjoyed are in large part a measure of who I am today. Though I may not recall all my classes and certainly not the many tests and papers, I do remember the challenges, encouragement, and support faculty gave me throughout my academic career. Both in and outside the classroom, the faculty was available to answer questions and provide reassurance as I made my way through college. I felt lucky and privileged to attend college, and in many ways, fortunate because I received a great education and wonderful mentorship from faculty members, college staff, and my athletic coaches. Today my role is to help you find the university that resonates with you academically and socially.
I have been privileged to work at a variety of universities with different missions, such as one with a technology focus, another with a religious underpinning, as well as a medical college with no undergraduate programs. Spanning more than two decades, these experiences have given me a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that is invaluable in assisting you to navigate the college selection process. The complexity of issues surrounding this process, including preparedness, college match, and for many—affordability—requires additional support, which is why I offer my services to you and your family. My role is to provide expert guidance, wisdom, support, and organization to this complex and important decision.
My motivation to help others stems from my life experiences, my career, and my belief that students who choose to attend college and select well will have a lifetime of happiness. For me, the reward is the selection—a confident, well-researched, and emotional fit with the college of your choice. This is accomplished by successfully navigating the admissions and financial aid process so you and your family are certain you made a well-informed decision regarding this most important step in your educational development. Four years is not a long period of time, but there may be no other four-year span in your life that influences your future happiness and success. That is why I started College Selection and the reason I believe many can benefit greatly from my career admissions experiences and judgment.
Why Choose an Independent College Advisor?
There are many reasons to choose an independent college advisor, and here are a few:
- Accessibility – For some students, their high school counselor provides little support due to a large student population. College decisions are critical, and there is never too much sound advice and support. As an independent college advisor, I can work with you as early as sophomore year, during the summer, evenings, and even on weekends.
- Expertise and In-Depth Knowledge – I bring expertise, understanding, and many years of experience in the field of admissions. Having worked on college campuses, I also have in-depth knowledge of many of the academic and co-curricular activities that will enhance your experience while in college. I will broaden your thoughts about particular colleges as well as the entire college experience.
- Experience – I have direct experience working as a dean or vice president chairing an admissions committee and viewing firsthand what makes an application acceptable and what does not.
- Organization – As your independent college advisor, I provide the necessary support to keep you on track to meet all deadlines for applications, scholarships, financial aid, and final notification.
College Selection Has Supported Students’ Attendance to the Following Schools:
Adelphi University – NY
Bucknell University – PA
Boston College – MA
Boston University – MA
Columbia University – NY
Fordham University – NY
George Washington University – DC
Hunter College – NY
New York University – NY
Penn State University – PA
Queens College – NY
Ramapo College – NJ
Rutgers University, Honors College – NJ
St. John’s University – NY
St. Joseph’s College – NY
State University of New York at Buffalo
Stevens Institute of Technology – NJ
Syracuse University – NY
Tufts University – MA
My Specialties
My extensive experience will prove beneficial as you progress through the admissions process. Furthermore, I have a unique set of skills that will support students with special interests:
- STEM-Related Majors or Colleges – I can guide students who are looking to major in the sciences, technology, engineering, math, or computer science-related fields. I can help refine your search and distinguish programs that are more rigorous from those that are not.
- Student-Athletes – Having worked with coaches and college athletes in addition to participating in college athletics myself, I have keen insights into the recruiting process. I can help students weigh the benefits and challenges of competing at the college level.
- Co-Curricular – More and more students and their families understand why co-curricular activities are an essential component of a successful college career. These experiences take the form of internships, cooperative education, or research. Companies and graduate schools expect students to have gained professional experience prior to graduating. I have extensive experience working with colleagues across universities in these areas and can provide invaluable information to students as they decide which school has the best opportunities for them in this all-important facet of college life.
To speak with Daniel, email him at collegeselection@yahoo.com
