Our Story “About Us”
In 1996, Dave Petersam founded AdmissionsConsultants after several friends asked for his guidance with their MBA applications. That year, he helped just five applicants — and from those beginnings, the company steadily grew into a trusted resource for students worldwide.
A Maryland native, Dave earned his MBA from the University of Chicago, and his firsthand experience with the admissions process shaped the foundation of his consulting practice.
In 2009, Dave married Jenn Wagner, then a lawyer with the Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAGC). Together, they built a life balancing dual careers with raising their four children — Mary Kate, Caroline, Jacob, and Joseph.
After 23 years of distinguished service, Jenn retired from the Army JAGC in 2025. She joined Dave at AdmissionsConsultants, bringing her own expertise and perspective to the team. Today, Dave and Jenn work side by side, helping applicants reach their dream schools while continuing to be deeply involved parents.
At AdmissionsConsultants, we don’t just guide applicants — we live the journey ourselves.
Our daughter Mary Kate, now a junior in high school, is navigating the same challenges as many of our clients: balancing grades, preparing for the SATs, and visiting campuses to find the right fit.
As parents, we understand the mix of pride and anxiety that comes with preparing to launch your child into college life. That’s why we bring not only professional expertise but also genuine empathy to every family we work with. We know the late-night worries, the excitement of campus tours, and the hope that your child will find their place to thrive.
Together, we help families turn this stressful season into a rewarding milestone — guiding students toward their dream schools while supporting parents through the process.
Meet some of our consultants
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