Serene and relaxed, she listens to smooth jazz as she reads through college essays written by CVHS seniors.
CVHS college advisor Chanae Galloway works with students to ensure that they have a plan for the future – and to support them every step of the way.
“I’m really passionate about making sure that students have a plan once they leave high school,” said Galloway. The loving support she provides to students allows them to visualize a clearer path on the road to higher education.
As the first one in her family to go to college, Galloway attended the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). In 2017 she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology with the hope of one day becoming a psychiatrist.
“A whole other world out here,” Galloway said, describing her first college experiences. Just like what all seniors go through, the eye-opening transition from childhood to adulthood exposed her to new life experiences, one of which would change her own path.
During college Galloway joined a club called “Voices,” which offered volunteer opportunities across campus through various nonprofits. Through Voices, Galloway found her passion for serving others.
“I would say I was the average Joe. That was me in high school,” said Galloway. She had good grades but wasn’t involved in school. However, she did have a job at the McDonalds near her house. Unfortunately, Galloway did not have an adult to look to when it came to higher education. Galloway’s parents never attended college and couldn’t guide her through a journey they had never been on themselves. Galloway’s high school was large, with about five hundred in her graduating class. No one ever made the effort to check in on her. This inspired Galloway to become a college adviser – to be the person she had needed in high school.
Being a college advisor comes with both challenges and advantages. Galloway plays the role of advising at three campuses: CVHS, Debakey, and HSPVA. Though she is surrounded by many students, Galloway still finds ways to form connections and implement ideas with those she serves. She must navigate tough conversations about lower test scores and grade point averages with not only students but also parents. As Galloway guides students through college admissions, she also collaborates with them by helping to find scholarships and programs that will give them an advantage with their applications.
One advantage to being a college advisor is getting to know different people.
“Pure human-to-human connection … I think in the end, that’s what’s super important. That’s what’s valuable,” said Galloway.
She acknowledges that all students have a different story – and she is always ready to listen. Although it is her job to encourage students as they take their first steps into adulthood, Galloway says she wants students to expand their horizons and to think big, instead of “[students] putting all their eggs in one basket.”
Galloway is a flamboyant, hidden gem in the halls of CVHS whose enlightenment on life’s blessings is what allows her to advise students in every aspect of their lives.
“Comparison is the thief of joy,” says Galloway. “So don’t compare yourself to others. Just focus on you.”
