Who We Are

Dr. Dean Skarlis

Dr. Skarlis is the President and founder of The College Advisor of New York. Dean has 18 years experience in higher education, including 6 years as a Consultant at American College Testing (ACT) and 9 years as an administrator at Duquesne University and the University of Pittsburgh. A passionate student advocate, Dean has taught at the graduate and undergraduate levels, and is currently a Senior Lecturer at Tiffin University. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from Allegheny College, an M.A. in Psychology from Duquesne University, and a Doctorate in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Pittsburgh. Dean also earned a certificate from the Harvard University Institute on College Admissions. His research has focused on quality teaching and learning, retention, and program design at four-year colleges. He is a member of the National Association of College Admissions Counseling and the Independent Educational Consultants Association.

Dr. Skarlis has conducted presentations about college admissions for thousands of students, parents, faculty, and administrators at more than 220 colleges, universities, and high schools across the United States. He has also been a featured speaker and trainer for hundreds of financial planners and Certified Public Accountants on the intricacies of college financial aid and scholarships. Locally, he has been a featured guest on the Capital News 9 “Family Living” segment which is broadcasted across upstate New York, as well a regular guest on CBS6 WRGB TV. Click Here to send an email to Dean.

Maggie Watson

Maggie is Director of Admissions Coaching for The College Advisor of New York. Her specialties are essay critique and resume development.  Maggie has worked in the field of higher education administration for 16 years, including two managing the recruiting and admissions processes for the Harvard University School of Public Health. In addition, she spent two years working in the field of corporate human resources from 2000-2002. Maggie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Allegheny College. Click here to send an email to Maggie.

Faith Critti

Faith is an Admissions Coach with the College Advisor of New York.  With 3 years of college admissions experience at Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY, she has an insider’s knowledge of the admissions process.  Faith served as the initial contact for prospective families.  She met with students and their families to help them understand the campus climate.  She offered campus tours and informed prospective students on the majors and extracurricular activities on campus.  Faith believes that finding a “good fit” college is the key to being a successful student, having a rewarding college experience, and being an active alumnus.  Her experience in admissions and marketing gives her the ability to tackle a variety of areas in the college search and admissions process.  Faith holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Hartwick College.  Click here to send an email to Faith.

Kathy Laberge 

Kathy Laberge joined the College Advisor of New York as an admissions coach after several years of tutoring high school age students and leading them in workshops. She loves working with young adults and aiding them in their transition from high school to college. Kathy believes the college essay is critical to showcasing each student’s unique characteristics. She particularly enjoys helping students choose topics and develop writing styles and skills that will be necessary throughout their higher education. Kathy graduated from Siena College in 1983 with a BA in History.

Prior to leaving the workforce to raise her family Kathy enjoyed a successful career in management. As a parent of one high school student and one college student Kathy has a unique perspective on the college search and application process. Click here to send an email to Kathy.

The College Advisor of New York
(518) 512-3021
www.CollegeAdvisorNy.com
College Admissions and Financial Strategy

Home | What We Do |Our Team |Contact | Results and Testimonials | College Resources | College Clients