Brian Swann

College Admissions Consultant

Former admissions officer at
Carleton College
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About Brian SwannCollege Admissions Consultant

My Background

I started my career in higher education as program coordinator at the Center for Excellence in Urban Teaching at Hamline University’s School of Education. My interest in diversity, equity and inclusion work took me to the Carleton College admissions office, where I initially served as Assistant Dean of Admissions & Coordinator of Outreach Programs. While in this role, I directed the Carleton Liberal Arts Experience (CLAE) summer program, worked closely with the POSSE Foundation and read applications from students all over the United States. After I was promoted to Senior Assistant Dean of Admissions & Coordinator of International Recruitment, I became responsible for crafting the strategic direction of our international recruitment. This included developing in person and virtual recruitment strategies, revamping application review policies, making final decisions on applications, and managing the financial aid budget for international students. While serving in this capacity, I also served as the men’s athletic liaison for our office.

My Education

Carleton College
Bachelor of Arts, Sociology & Anthropology

Get to Know Me

bs list of students

Why I Joined Bright Horizons College Coach

When I reflect on where I grew up (Louisville, Kentucky), it makes zero sense that I ended up attending a small liberal arts college in Minnesota. The high school I attended was right across the street from the University of Louisville! The concept of finding my fit wasn’t in my vocabulary, but taking that chance to try something different than what I had known turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. Working for so many years in admissions, I became thrilled to advocate and counsel students and families as they navigated the college admissions process. Getting to mentor and work with international students & CLAE participants gave me a window into understanding the questions, concerns and aspirations that so many young people have. I love being a supportive and thoughtful partner in the college search process so that students and families feel comfortable finding their best fit wherever that may take them. I’m honored to be able to share my knowledge with future college students.

Some of my Favorite Pastimes

I love team sports: Ultimate Frisbee, broomball, and basketball are some of my favorites. I love tennis and biking as well! Beyond athletics, I enjoy travel, reading lots of news articles, playing fantasy football/basketball, puttering around in the garden, grilling, and playing Legos (ok, playing everything) with my daughter.