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Samuel Chernakoff college advisor sitting in sunny office

Hi, I'm Sam

For me college wasn't just about academics; it was about new experiences, friendships that span a decade, and the thrilling uncertainty of starting fresh and following my calling. Now, my passion is to help others find their own perfect-fit universities, hidden gems that will turn into cherished memories, and serve as foundations for successful career paths.

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Bachelors in History

Salve Regina University

Admissions Counselor

Salve Regina University

Masters in Higher Education Administration
Stony Brook University

Assistant Director of Admissions

Emmanuel College

Graduate Coordinator for Student Media

Stony Brook University

Admissions Manager
Center for Allied Health Education

My Story

I grew up in the suburbs of Long Island. I was comfortable with my friends and family that surrounded me. Never did I think that leaving Long Island was something I’d do. I wasn't thinking about my future too deeply. I was going with the ebbs and flows of teenage life.

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Then came time to decide on plans after graduation. The pressure began to mount.

What path do I take? Do I go to a four year school, would I attend college outside of NY? What would I even want to study? These thoughts became overwhelming.

 

Until one day walking out of my math class (math was not my best subject) my teacher, Mr. Marshall asked me, "What are your plans after you graduate?”

 

I responded with, “Probably stay here. Go to community college for two years.” I was replying with what was comfortable to me.

 

He immediately challenged me: “You should go away to school.”

 

He continued to tell me about his awesome experience at the University of Albany. It sounded intriguing. It's cliche, but something inside me made me go home and really think about stepping out of my comfort zone and applying to schools outside of Long Island. 

So, I did just that.

College Advisor working on laptop
College Admissions expert working on laptop
College Advisor in meeting
College Advisor in meeting

There's nothing wrong with going to college where you grew up, and in certain cases it is the best decision… but not for me. After the light fell on my potential to expand, I felt undeniably called to follow it. It wasn't easy to navigate at first: I never heard of the Common App, and I had very little direction. My guidance counselor could only do so much.

 

One day my mom came into the living room while I was stressing over which colleges to apply for; She mentioned Salve Regina, a smaller school out of state. After some in depth discussion, we both felt like it would be a great fit. Applications were done and soon it became time to decide where to go. The final mountain to climb.

 

I weighed all my options, laid out all the different ways my future could look, and ultimately I followed my gut to Newport, RI. Which turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

 

I stepped out of my comfort zone - which can be scary and overwhelming at first, but boy is it worth it. I would make that same decision over and over again, and have created lifelong friendships with those I met in college 10 years ago. All I needed was the support and confidence from someone who could see the bigger picture for me. 

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Now, my goal is to help others have that same, or even better experience than I did. I love helping you find your best fit in a school, even if it's a hidden gem.

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The place that you will look back on with nothing but fulfillment, sentiment, and memories to last a lifetime; its impact is immense.

Salve Regina University

UNDERGRAD

2014-2018

SALVE REGINA UNIVERSITY

Ready to work together?

Book your free consultation now!

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