Meet Michael Giordano, the New Associate Director for Financial Aid

I grew up on a dairy farm in Boston, New York, and began my academic journey at the University at Buffalo, where I earned dual bachelor’s degrees in history and African American Studies. I later earned a master’s degree in education from D’Youville University and a second master’s degree in higher education administration from UB, with a focus on student development and student success in higher education.

I began my professional career at Penn State as a residential education specialist, where I supported students within the residential community through advising, educational programming, and collaboration with campus partners.

My work in residential education gave me a frontline perspective on the barriers students face beyond the classroom, particularly the financial pressures that impact persistence and well-being. While not working directly in financial aid at Penn State, supporting students in moments of crisis and transition drew my interest to financial aid as a critical area of higher education that directly affects access, retention, and student success.

I often remind students: Live like a student now so you can fully live the life you want after graduation.

Being thoughtful about finances today — especially student loans — can create more freedom later. Making informed choices now helps open doors to future goals like building a family, buying a home, or pursuing opportunities without unnecessary financial stress.

Equally important is taking care of your mental health. As future medical professionals, the ability to support others begins with taking care of your own well-being. When you prioritize both your financial health and personal wellness, you’re investing in a future you can genuinely look forward to.

Many students have a general understanding of how to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but what’s often less clear are the long-term implications of the loans they accept. My goal is to help students better understand the details behind their financial aid, such as the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized loans, how interest rates and origination fees work, and what it means to have a cosigner on a loan.

I also encourage students to apply for all types of aid available to them, particularly scholarships, which can significantly reduce long-term debt. With the demands of medical school, it’s easy for financial aid planning to fall to the bottom of the priority list, and in some cases students may not realize what opportunities or options exist.

By breaking this information down in an accessible way, I aim to help students feel more confident in managing their financial aid and empowered to make choices that support both their immediate needs and their long-term goals.

I understand what it means to struggle, because I’ve been there myself. As a first-generation student, I know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate higher education while carrying the weight of debt and financial uncertainty. While my experiences may not be identical to yours, they allow me to approach these conversations with empathy, perspective, and genuine care. I want students to know that I’m not just here to crunch numbers; I’m here to walk through these decisions alongside you.

My goal is to help students understand their finances in a way that feels manageable rather than intimidating. This position represents an opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students, to truly understand their needs and goals, and to provide guidance that supports both their academic journey and their well-being. Supporting students through these conversations is not just my work — it’s something I deeply care about.

My door is always open. If I’m not in my office, please email me. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. I want students to feel comfortable reaching out early, asking questions, and checking in, even if they’re not sure where to start. If something doesn’t feel right or you’re running into a challenge, come talk with me.

Our goal is to support your financial success just as intentionally as we support your academic success. The more clarity you have around your finances, the more space you’ll have to focus on your studies, your personal life, and your well-being. We’re here to help reduce stress and to make sure you feel supported every step of the way.

— Interview by Keith Gillogly