
Matthew D.

Studied at Cornell University

Admissions Committee at Cornell University
Available today at 11:00 PM UTC
Questions? Start chatting with this coach before you get started.
About Matthew
I bring nearly a decade of experience in graduate admissions at an Ivy League institution, where I reviewed thousands of applications and helped shape competitive cohorts of master’s students. At Cornell University, I advanced from Admissions Counselor to Associate Director of Admissions, ultimately leading a team responsible for recruitment, applicant engagement, and the evaluation of thousands of applications each year. I chaired admissions committee meetings and made scholarship award decisions to attract top candidates, while also developing strategies that supported admitted students from offer to enrollment. Through this work, I gained a deep understanding of how admissions decisions for business and research programs are made and the factors that contribute to successful applications. I now draw on this experience to support prospective students as they prepare their own applications to master’s programs.
Why do I coach?
I have since stepped away from my role in admissions to pursue my career interests in conservation. I currently work at Cornell University in a department that supports forest health, and I am also enrolled in a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Natural Resources and the Environment. Although my career has taken me in a new direction, I continue to enjoy working with prospective students. Coaching allows me to stay connected to the aspects of admissions I valued most, including helping applicants navigate the process, reflect on their goals, and put forward their strongest applications.
Work Experience

Extension Aide
Cornell University
June 2025 - Present

Extension Support Specailist
Cornell University
2024 - 2025

Associate Director of Graduate Admissions
Cornell University
2022 - 2024
Admissions Committee

Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions
Cornell University
2020 - 2022
Admissions Committee

Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions
Cornell University
2018 - 2019
Admissions Committee

Admissions Counselor
Cornell University
2016 - 2018
Education
SUNY Oneonta
Bachelor's Degree

Cornell University
Master of Professional Studies (MPS), Natural Resources and the Environment , Natural Resources and the Environment
2024 - 2026
Ithaca College
Master's Degree, Strategic Communications
2014 - 2016