In the 14 years that Vanessa Reynolds has been a Wayne State admissions counselor, she has experienced many changes on campus and among incoming students. One thing, though, has remained consistent: her message to students who may feel overwhelmed by the university admissions process.

“You don’t need to do anything but do well,” she tells them. “As long as you do well, we’re here to make sure everything falls into place.”

Reynolds and WSU’s entire undergraduate admissions team work tirelessly to ensure that every student has a personalized, seamless experience when applying to and selecting Wayne State — whether they’re an incoming freshman, transfer student or international student.

“Every student is different, and we work hard to make sure they get the individualized attention they deserve,” she said. “They have different questions, needs, admissions requirements and levels of experience — but ultimately they’re all working toward the same goal of earning a degree.” 

As one of eight dedicated admissions counselors, Reynolds serves as a first point of contact for many future Warriors working toward that goal. Reynolds — who holds a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s in educational leadership from Wayne State — visits area high schools to share information about the university, its unique campus experience, the benefits of a WSU degree and more. She works closely with high school guidance counselors to answer questions and assist with the university admissions process.

“A student beginning the admissions process is in such a special and, often, challenging time in their life. They’re making big decisions and big changes that will touch so much of their future,” Reynolds said. “It’s important that they know we are in their corner and here to help. Everyone on campus plays a role in influencing a student’s decision to attend Wayne State and in making them feel welcomed and supported here.” 

For her dedication, Reynolds was recently recognized by the Michigan Association of College Admission Counseling (MACAC) with its ACE Award, which celebrates those with more than five years of service in admissions counseling and whose work reflects a commitment to “advocate, collaborate and educate” on behalf of students and counselors. She also served on the planning committee for MACAC’s 2018 annual conference  and presented a session about serving documented, DACAmented and immigrant students.

Additionally, Reynolds is an executive board member of ALSAME (Advocates for Latino Student Advancement in Michigan Education), a group that provides resources and assistance to Latino students pursuing goals in higher education. She serves as the ALSAME scholarship coordinator.

In her role, Reynolds notes that patience, listening and developing a personal connection with students are key.

“You really don’t know what kind of challenges a student may be facing — financial, personal and cultural. The admissions staff is here to make sure students know that if they want a college education and they work hard, there is a way to make it happen,” she said. “We’re an institution of access and opportunity and we’re all here working together in the best interest of students. Being able to see them graduate is the best reward any job could ever offer.”