Experience Is The Best Teacher

Have you ever read a blog and wondered what makes the author an expert on their topic? Me too! Allow me to explain my expertise.

I graduated from college more years ago than I care to admit. Back then, the cost of educating a student was much lower than today. "Affordable" was one way to describe it. However, as years passed, the cost of sending a child to college rose dramatically. Knowing how to put together the puzzle pieces called "sending a child to college" is a valuable skill. It's a skill that I sharpened working in a college financial aid office for years, and continue to do so as I send my three children (triplets!) back to college each year.

A key component to putting it all together is completing the FAFSA form each year: accurately and on time.

This is where considering hiring a consultant to do this for you is worthwhile. Due to the complexities of college financial aid applcations and the financial aid packages themselves, many families simply do not have the time and/or expertise to devote to this important process.

If you wish to consider using a consultant during this important time, contact me at CollegeMargot@gmail.com. Experience really has been a great teacher; allow me to share my expertise with you. Together we will find the means to make your student's college dreams a reality.

Getting Started

It's that crazy time of year again. College applications are being submitted across the country. Students are excited or nervous when they aren't totally exhausted by the application process. Parents think they are worn out from all the college visits. Little do they know that the hard work still lies ahead: paying for college.

Take a deep breath and go one step at a time. Whether or not you have set aside savings for the education of your children, you can do this. There are many tools and options available to help you with this monumental task. The first step you (and your student) should take is to apply for financial aid.

Each school will have different requirements, but there is one application which is common at most, if not all, colleges and universities: the FAFSA. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid may be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Visit the site today and get started by applying for your pin.

Then check back here for more information to walk you through this process. In the spirit of full disclosure, I should let you know that I firmly believe in involving your student in this process and having them help pay for their education - there are so many ways and options I will share with you -- there really are 101 ways to pay for college!

CollegeMargot@gmail.com