College Search Navigators

Who We Are

Michelle J. Cassel, B.A., J.D., M.L.S.

Michelle earned her B.A., Magna Cum Laude, from Marymount University and her law degree at the City University of New York Law School. Michelle also studied Comparative Law and European Union Law in Madrid through the Marshall Wythe School of Law of The College of William and Mary. A litigator for over ten years practicing public interest law, Michelle received the 2004 Attorney of the Year Award from Legal Services of New Jersey. She also taught her practice area to the legal profession. Michelle decided to further her education while still practicing law, and earned her Masters in Library Science and Information Technology from Rutgers. Michelle is a certified Professional Librarian and has experience working as a reference librarian. In 2006, after having guided several families and their children through the college search and application process, Michelle founded College Search Navigators, based on her assessment of the growing need to help high school students and their families by providing professional college placement advice and assistance. Michelle is a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) and has attended the IECA Summer Training Institute. Michelle is also a Member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), New Jersey Association for College Admission Counseling (NJACAC), as well as the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA), and subscribes to HECA standards of good practice. Michelle attends national and state association conferences, and regularly participates in regional college counselor campus tours.

Don’t Let Summer Pass You By!

While many think of the summer as a time to relax, hit the beach and do anything but something academic, summer is the best time to explore potential academic majors and careers. You can learn more about this at your local library. Take advantage of the down time to up your game. You will be glad you did.

 

In Memory of Diane Gallo

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our co-founder Diane Gallo. Diane, a beloved independent educational consultant who went above and beyond for the students she served and their families, will be greatly missed. She was a great colleague and friend to all. If you had been working with Diane, please reach out to her husband Michael Gallo with a written request for a refund of any monies that may be owed to you at 43 Hillside Avenue, Glen Rock, NJ 07452.

 

Did You Know?

Looking to apply Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED) to college this year? Many high school guidance counselors require students to provide their completed application two weeks prior to the deadline. This allows the guidance counselor enough time to complete the school forms and submit them in a timely manner. For the unprepared student this can be quite a shock. Suddenly that November 15 deadline becomes November 1. The best way to reduce your stress level is to ask your guidance office what they need and when they need it. Less surprise equals a smoother process for you and your guidance counselor.

 

Testimonials

"College Search Navigators was able to grasp the sensitivity of my college essay and make it stand out among the thousands received at St. Joseph's University.  With their recommendations, my essay captured the attention of the admissions counselors, which enabled me to receive many opportunities that I would not otherwise have been able to obtain. "

Jackie G., Class of 2012, 
St. Joseph's University (crew team scholarship recipient)