Brendan Gallagher doesn’t believe in brief trips to campus.

Once Brendan steps foot on campus, he’s in for the long haul.

The University of Michigan-Dearborn student said he’s one of the first to arrive on campus in the morning, and one of the last to leave at night.

“I don’t go home because, even though I may not have class, there is still work to be done, events to attend, as well as plan, and to simply be a part of student life,” he said.

Brendan’s commitment to student life is just one reason why he’s a “Difference Maker.”

“I have always been able to balance my academics, as well as my extracurricular activities,” he said. “I believe that being able to find this balance has allowed me to mature and grow into a well-rounded individual. Although academics are very important, I believe the balance between both academics and student life is imperative as I make my way through my college career.”

And Brendan certainly has no shortage of involvement on campus. He’s closely associated with Student Activities Board and Student Government.

“He shatters the idea that campus life is boring because we’re on a commuter campus,” said Amy Karaban, assistant director of student activities. “In fact, he barely commutes, as he is here all the time working on improving student life, volunteering his time, or working at the Early Childhood Education Center.”

Brendan’s passion for student life inspired him to pursue a career in education.

“I became so heavily involved with student life on campus that I knew right away that this was a career that I wanted to be a part of,” he said. “Ever since I became involved, I knew that this was what I wanted to do with my life and to pursue this career was of my highest priority. The passion I have for student life and involvement is second to none.”