Zaryah Guyton
Associate Director of Admissions for Application Evaluation and Enrollment Projects
Northeastern University (MA)
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
As a first-generation college student, I experienced firsthand how transformative higher education can be. I was drawn to admissions because I wanted to help students and families navigate a process that can often feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. My journey in admissions began as an undergraduate at Bryant University (RI), where I worked as a tour guide and in the admissions office as a work-study student. Those experiences showed me the impact admissions professionals can have on students’ lives and inspired me to pursue a career in the field.
What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part is knowing that the work we do can open doors for students. Whether directly or behind the scenes, it’s rewarding to play a role in helping students find opportunities that align with their goals. I also love the balance of people and strategy. One day I might be focused on enrollment process improvements, and the next I’m thinking about how to best support students and families.
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC has been an invaluable resource throughout my career, providing opportunities to learn from colleagues across the profession, stay informed about industry trends, and continue growing as a leader in enrollment management.
One of the most rewarding aspects of membership has been the strong sense of community and the willingness of colleagues to share ideas, challenges, and best practices. I’ve also had the opportunity to attend several GWI conferences and thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the NACAC conference in Baltimore. Those experiences reinforced how collaborative and supportive this profession can be, and I look forward to continuing to learn from and contribute to the NACAC community.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
Ensuring students have access to affordable educational opportunities continues to be one of the most significant challenges facing higher education and admissions professionals today. As college costs and concerns about return on investment remain top of mind for many families, institutions must do a better job of helping students understand the value of higher education while also connecting them with resources that make college financially attainable. Admissions professionals play an important role in helping students navigate these decisions and identify pathways that align with both their goals and their circumstances.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, discovering new restaurants with friends, and spending time near the water. One of my favorite ways to unwind is taking walks around my neighborhood at dusk and appreciating the change of pace after a busy day. Photography is also one of my favorite creative outlets, and I love experimenting with both film and DSLR cameras.
What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Driven. Observant. Resilient. Hard-Working. Adventurous.
Published July 20, 2026