College Financial Aid and Career Navigation

Tom & Maria Geffers   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 50 w/ Tom & Maria Geffers   Tom & Maria Geffers are the owners of Career and College Counselors located in eastern Pennsylvania. They have finance and education backgrounds which they use to help those looking for the right career and/or college. Since 2010 Tom & Maria continue to help those applying and entering into a new college or job.   Listen to this final informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with the hosts Tom & Maria Geffers about top tips for choosing and applying to a college. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Why essays are crucial -Developing a portfolio of your work -Importance of FAFSA and mistakes -Negotiate with your college for financial package -Finding the best major      -How to save for college   Connect with Tom & Maria:   Links Mentioned: https://www.careercollegecounselors.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rod Meeker   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 49 Rod Meeker Rod Meeker is Rod Meeker is an independent education consultant who will show you how to navigate through the rough waters of college planning so that you don't graduate and spend the rest of your career paying off a large student debt. Rod is passionate about helping families maximize college funding and decrease their debt load. Rod was born & raised and now back to living in Cortland, Ohio. He has two daughters and is very active outdoors often competing in triathlons, road races, and coaching. Rod started a non-profit organization that helps raise money for various charities through those people who compete in running events and triathlons. Rod has previously worked as a Financial Consultant and has 20+ years of student-athlete experience. This ranges from helping student recruitment to understanding the rules, academic guidelines, processes and scholarship opportunities.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Rod Meeker about what information you need to get the best price for college. Here is what to expect on this week's show: ●     Being on the board of National College Advocacy Group       ●     How his company helps families pay for college ●     Steps for parents to take ●     Coaches available for areas of the application process   Connect with Rod: Links Mentioned: Collegeplanningsolutions.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patricia Marino   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 48 Patricia Marino   Patricia Marino is a philanthropic consultant who brings over 30 years of knowledge and experience in grantmaking and development to help funders and nonprofits achieve their charitable and organizational goals.  Pat worked for three Fortune 500 Oakland-based corporations in her career. She was President of The Clorox Company Foundation, co-chaired the East Bay Funders, a collaboration of 16 Bay Area foundations focused on Neighborhood revitalization in Oakland and Richmond. She recently completed a $10 million capital campaign for the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Leandro. Pat brings a love of and background in education and youth development to her work.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Patricia Marino about athletic scholarships. Here is what to expect on this week's show: ·       How Patricia helps parents of athletes to apply and get athletic scholarships. ·       What is a common mis-step that parents do when helping their child get athletic scholarships? ·       Opportunities for athletic scholarships in Division 2 & 3 colleges. ·       The biggest hurdle that an athlete faces when applying for a athletic scholarships in Division 1, Division 2 and Division 3 colleges.   Connect with Patricia: https://getathleticscholarships.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Frailey   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 47 Michael Frailey   Michael Frailey is the owner of one of the oldest insurance agencies in PA. His Nationwide agency was started in 1937 by his grandfather, and Michael now continues to represent Nationwide plus many other insurance providers as a General Agent. In addition to Property and Casualty Insurance, Mike has expanded his agency into broad based Financial Planning. Mike lives in the Pocono Mtns with his wife Leigh and daughter Elizabeth. He is very active in his community with Kiwanis, the Chamber of Commerce, and his church     Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Michael Frailey about insurance careers and insight. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -His family's history in the insurance industry -What school courses Michael took -All the different positions available in the insurance industry -Why you should look into the insurance careers -The future of insurance   Michael Contact Info: https://frminsurancegroup.com/ https://twitter.com/fraileyins https://www.facebook.com/FraileyInsurance/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Silver   Reinventing the Educational System – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 46 Sam Silver Sam Silver is Sam Silver is the Vice President of Business Development at Heron Books, After using the curriculum as a teacher for twenty years, he is now dedicated to providing many more students a chance to study materials that put them in the driver's seat. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Sam Silver about changing the educational system.  Here is what to expect on this week's show: Starting a new type of school Going from a teacher to a publisher of school textbooks What makes his school different Testing curriculum on homeschoolers The new school Student Learning Guide  How the new textbook style is laid out and works Connect with Sam: Links Mentioned: https://www.facebook.com/delphianschool https://twitter.com/delphianschool https://www.heronbooks.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Heronbooks/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Herzberg – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 045 Dan Herzberg Daniel Herzberg is the founder and owner of Optimum Educational Solutions, a comprehensive internet-based college admissions advisory service for families of college bound youth.  He has personally helped over 8000 families over the past 28 years gain admission to their target schools.  Daniel is one of the nation's leading experts on the SAT and the ACT, having effectively memorized over 50 full length SAT and ACT exams over the past 28 years, and created the leading one-on-one internet-based SAT/ACT prep program in the US. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Dan Herzberg about whether or not college admissions tests are still relevant. Here is what to expect on this week's show: - Validation of a winding path where changing your mind works out -The SAT and the ACT as interchangeable tests -The 5000 hours students spend on their academic profile  -“Test-Optional” as code for, “required” -The best way to prepare for the SAT and ACT -Individualizing a test prep strategy based on the student -Shopping around for test prep and finding the professional that knows what they are doing Connect with Dan Herzberg Guest Contact Info: Email: daniel@optimumedsolutions.com Website: http://www.optimumedsolutions.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lance Morgan – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 044 Lance Morgan Lance Morgan is the Amazon Best-Selling Author of the Retirement Scholarship Strategy book and founder of College Funding Education, LLC. He and his team help hundreds of families every year to pay for college to the school of their choice without sacrificing your lifestyle or retirement. Even if you don't have enough saved and feel like it's too late. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Lance Morgan about the new ways to pay for college and why you haven't heard about them! Here is what to expect on this week's show: - How the right investments are about financial strategies and not financial products - Why you don't have to sacrifice and work your whole life to send your kids to college - Making payments for college as opposed to cash by working the interest rates - IRA's, 529's and all of the other financial products you don't understand - Not making any financial decisions until you know how I can help - Comparing the opportunity costs associated with all of the different ways to pay for college Connect with Lance Morgan Guest Contact Info: Website: http://www.collegefundingcall.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lyman Winner – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 043 Lyman Winner Lyman Winner is the executive chef and co-owner of The Frogtown Chophouse. The Frogtown Chophouse is a family affair. Lyman and his wife Ann partnered with Eric Noone and his wife, Christina, bringing New American Cuisine, and over thirty years combined of restaurant experience to the resort area of the Poconos. Lyman is a graduate of the prestigious Culinary College in Baltimore.  Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Lyman Winner where we talk about all you need to know about a career as a chef and restauranteur. Here is what to expect on this week's show: - What you do when you realize that your parents aren't there to take care of you anymore - Making a pivot when realizing that the path you were on was not quite for you - Getting a start in a kitchen with Captain Ray - Opportunities to work in exotic places as a chef - The exciting lifestyle that comes with working in restaurants and how to navigate it - Culinary school as a path to continued growth in the restaurant industry -A typical day in the life of a chef -The transition from chef to restaurant owner -The unconventional schedule that comes with a career in a restaurant and how to balance your home life and work life Connect with Lyman Winner Guest Contact Info: Website: www.thefroghousechophouse.com Email: info@thefrogtownchophouse.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shawn Stewart – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 042 Shawn Stewart Shawn Stewart is the owner and lead photographer of LightMaster Studios which is based in the Poconos. Before becoming a full-time photographer in 2018, Shawn was a Music Teacher in New Jersey for 22 years. He attended Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ where he met his wife, Carrie. They have been married for 25 years and have 3 adult children.  Shawn has had a passion for photography since high school, and in 2008 started LightMaster Studios as a part-time studio. In 2017, the family moved from New Jersey to the Poconos, and in 2018, Shawn made the switch for LightMaster Studios to be a full-time business. Shawn's passion has built this company from the ground up and we are excited to see where things will take it in the future!  Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Shawn Stewart where we talk about pursuing a career in the arts. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -A music education major as giving you several paths to a career in the arts -Combining your passion with your purpose to find fulfillment in your career -Overhauls needed in the education system to better align with the information age -Discovering gifts at any point in your life and fostering them -Photography as a viable career path -The skills above and beyond operating a camera needed for a career in photography -The ever-expanding frontier of online education -finding the willing experts in the area of your interest to share their expertise Connect with Shawn Stewart: Guest Contact Info: Instagram: @lightmasterstudios Facebook: @lightmasterstudios Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tai DeSa – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 041 Tai DeSa Tai DeSa lost it all and then pulled off a great comeback. Tai is the oldest of 11 children. He graduated first in his class from Notre Dame High School of East Stroudsburg. Tai earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics degree from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Wanting to be a better leader and wishing to serve his country, Tai decided two weeks before graduating from college that he would join the military. He spent five years deployed overseas as a naval intelligence officer, including three deployments to combat zones. Tai then decided to leave the Navy and become a full-time real estate investor. As the housing bubble burst, Tai lost his life savings in bad real estate investments. While in the midst of his financial problems, Tai met his future wife Amira. They fell in love and married just over a year after their first date. Today, Tai and Amira are real estate investors and operate real estate brokerage businesses in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. Out of everything he has done, Tai is most proud to be a father to twin girls. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Tai DeSa where we talk about what a first-class business degree and military training can do for you. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Insight into one of the most prestigious business schools in the country -The military as an opportunity to see the world, serve, and learn leadership skills -The military's Officer Candidate School -Active duty, drilling reserves, and inactive reserves -Serving in the military during the midst of 9/11 -Life on an aircraft carrier -Transferring skills learned in the military to the business world -A career in real estate brokerage -Facing professional failures and overcoming the challenge to succeed Connect with Tai DeSa Guest Contact Info: Email: taidesa@kw.com  Phone: 484-626-1278 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joanne Kaminski – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 040 Joanne Kaminski Joanne Kaminski spent three years as a classroom teacher and was quickly promoted to the Reading Curriculum Coordinator. As the Coordinator, she was in charge of all the reading interventions in the school and coached the teachers in reading strategies that would help bring their students to the next level. Joanne fell in love with teaching reading and went back to school to get her masters as a Reading Specialist so that she could help develop the most successful Reading programs for the readers of her school. As Joanne developed those skills, she became frustrated that most of her time was spent on classroom management coaching vs. reading instruction.  In an effort to be more present for her own children, Joanne started her own online reading tutoring business. She didn't follow the traditional method of starting an online tutoring company, which she believes has led her to the success that she now has. Joanne has worked with students in Australia, London, Canada, Dominican Republic and kids from the West coast to the East Coast in the US. and has been booked solid several times throughout the years.  Joanne has now dedicated her life to teaching other people how to start an independent online tutoring business. She then helps them book their own online tutoring business solid so that they can be more present for their families and have the freedom and flexibility that they could have only once dreamed of. Joanne has created several programs to help other tutors start their online tutoring business.  Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Joanne Kaminski where we talk about the opportunities for teachers found outside of the classroom. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Classroom management as a skill learned on the job -Ditching authoritarianism and building relationships to gain the respect of a classroom -Opportunities to teach teachers rather than students -Failing at 5 different businesses and still believing the sixth one would work -Faster results by tutoring online than in person -Building a community of people to further your mission -Leadership as stewardship -The importance of, “You're doing a great job,” and, “Thank you!” -Reaching children all across the globe with online tutoring -Home-schooling as empowering parents to have more choices regarding their children's education -Professional freelance education Connect with Joanne Kaminski Guest Contact Info: Website: www.onlinetutorcoach.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/303391446535402 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bolanle Williams-Olley – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 039 Bolanle Williams-Olley Bolanle Williams-Olley is the chief financial officer and part owner at Mancini Duffy, a technology-first design firm based in NYC, where she oversees the firm's financial and operational performance. She has over 12 years of experience working in the AEC industry with a strong background in financial analysis and strategic initiatives. At her core, she thrives on building relationships between finance and management teams to ensure the overall financial success of projects and her firm. She is also the author of Build Boldly: Chart your unique career path and lead with courage. Her clients include American Airlines, Soho House, Brooklyn Nets, Boqueria, Verizon, and NBC Sports Group.    Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Bolanle Williams-Olley where we talk about cultivating your unique self and crafting your own career playbook. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Recalibrating your educational path when discovering interests more aligned with your passions after your first semester -Allowing your unique self to come through in the interview process -Being courageous and crafting your own career playbook -How just one elective course can open doors for you that you may not have imagined -What a CFO is and their relationship to all of the numbers of a business -Architecture and the many ways it can be applied  -Exploring all of our varied interests and passions -All the ways in which you can give back to your community Connect with : Bolanle Williams-Olley Guest Contact Info: Instagram: @bolanle_hq LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolanlewo/ Website: https://manciniduffy.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Haack – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 038 Dr. Chris Haack Chris Haack was named the Georgia men's golf coach on July 18,1996 – and he has guided the Bulldogs to their highest levels of success. Haack has coached the Bulldogs to two national championships (the only two in school history), eight Southeastern Conference crowns, 66 team tournament titles, and virtually every squad and individual records. Top of Form Bottom of Form   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Chris Haack where we talk about what it takes to play athletics at a division 1 school.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Chris Haack's path to coaching division 1 golf, including coaching Tiger Woods -All the responsibilities that fall under the purview of a division 1 coach -Scholarships for athletes and how, with academic assistance, that is spread out amongst a team -How to stay close ads a team in an individual sport -Tournament results and how they factor into landing a spot on a college athletic team -How it's not all about athletic ability that makes you attractive to a division 1 program -Title 9 and how the regulation effects a college athletic department -Learning how to manage your time as a division 1 athlete to keep up on your academics -The resources an athletic department provides to set their athlete up for success -The hard party of picking a lineup for a tournament -How being a part of a division 1 program can contribute to success in any career   Connect with Chris Haack: Guest Contact Info: Website: www.georgiadogs.com   Email: chaack@sports.uga.edu       Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Belcak – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 037 Dr. Mark Belcak Mark is a Senior Financial Advisor with MtM Financial Group providing quality financial advice to clients with significant financial concerns since 1994. He serves the needs of clients who appreciate counsel provided by an advisor who cares.   Mark's career began in Philadelphia and has focused predominantly on trust and estate planning with major financial institutions, including Wells Fargo (formerly Wachovia), PNC Wealth Management and Merrill Lynch. Attention to detail, good listening skills and great empathy are symbols of his appreciation for his clients.   Mark coordinates the efforts of a team of seasoned professionals in creating and serving the long-term financial needs of his clients. Each MtM professional has the same objective—to provide outstanding service to their clients.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Mark Belcak where we talk about what it takes to be a successful financial advisor.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The evolution of financial advisement from buying and selling to a more all-encompassing role of financial planning -Retirement planning as a large aspect of financial advisement -The responsibilities of being a fiduciary -Learning how to effectively work and communicate with other people regardless of the profession you pursue -Public speaking as a helpful skill in any arena -Financial advisement as all about building trusting relationships -Differentiating between short-term irrational shifts in the market and fundamental shifts in the market -Making the moment perfect as opposed to waiting for the moment to be perfect -The gratification that comes with helping clients through some of life's most trying times -Internships as critical experience when investigating a potential career path   Connect with Mark Belcak: Website: https://www.morethanmoneyonline.com/ Email: mark@askmtm.com       Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve Cadigan – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 036 Steve Cadigan An expert in the future of work, Steve Cadigan is considered a corporate culture guru, bringing winning insights from over thirty years of HR experience with industry titans like Google, Salesforce, The Royal Bank of Scotland, McKinsey, and the BBC, as well as venture capital firms like Andreessen Horowitz and Sequoia. Cadigan's inspirational keynotes, seminars, and workshops at global conferences and major universities have garnered rave reviews. Cadigan is renowned for leading LinkedIn's first talent push and architecting its world-famous culture, now considered the gold standard. Throughout his twenty-five-year career, he has led teams, cultures, and organizations that have been hailed as “world-class” performers by the Wall Street Journal, Fortune magazine, and more. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Steve Cadigan where we talk about the future of careers and leadership.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Overseeing and developing LinkedIn's culture during a period of tremendous growth -Using internships to investigate future career possibilities -Dynamics learned in sports and competition that translate to the professional world -How the median length of tenure for professionals is continuing to shorten, providing opportunities for students entering the workforce -The pros and cons of infinite choice when considering a career path -Understanding new realities and fostering more authentic and mutually beneficial relationships between workers and companies in shorter periods of time -A future where companies recruit based on your ability to learn more than for what you already know -The ability to adapt and adjust as a premium skill in today's job marketplace -All of the valuable lessons learned outside of a classroom in college -Tasting failure and letting it be a contribution to your success Connect with Steve Cadigan: Guest Contact Info: Website: https://stevecadigan.com/ Email: steve@cadiganventures.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cadigan/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Jenn McCluskey – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 035 Dr. Jenn McClusky A higher education professional for more than 25 years, Jennifer McCluskey serves as Maryville's vice president for student success. She leads Maryville's Division of Student Success using a life-coaching model that takes a holistic approach to student success. Dr. McCluskey has led student retention initiatives at Maryville that resulted in a more than 15 percent retention increase. She conducts annual student satisfaction assessments at Maryville, which reveal above-average results in nearly all categories. Dr. McCluskey serves as the executive sponsor for the Digital Employee initiative, as Maryville develops 24/7 supports for students in academic, career, and onboarding through a rich visual experience with a Digital Coach. She also served as chairperson for Maryville's successful Digital World initiative, providing technology that levels the playing field for students and faculty while preparing students for success beyond graduation. Additionally, she is passionate about facilitating Maryville's commitment to partnering with parents in the journey to achieving optimal student outcomes and success. Before joining Maryville, Dr. McCluskey served as director of student programs and Greek life at the University of Denver and assistant dean of campus programs at Arkansas State University. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Dr. Jenn McClusky where we talk about the ways in which higher education supports its students.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The office of student success as the bridge between academics and student life -The national problem of students enrolling, taking out debt, and dropping out -College-student personnel and higher education as a career -The holistic approach to helping a student succeed that is the life coaching method -Partnering with parents to help a student succeed -Focusing on fostering your natural strengths and skills as opposed to dwelling on your weaknesses -Setting short term goals to reach long term goals   Connect with Dr. Jenn McCluskey: Email: jmccluskey@maryville.edu     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lindsey Wander – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 034 Lindsey Wander Lindsey Wander is the Founder and CEO of WorldWise Tutoring as well as the Founder and President of the nonprofit, Educate. Radiate. Elevate. Both organizations provide services to students of all abilities in all subjects. Her mission is to provide quality instruction that is deliberately intertwined with learning and life skills so that their students grow into confident and independent lifelong learners who become competent and conscious leaders. Her highly educated and experienced tutors provide effective lessons that can be in-person or online, individual or small group, and cover a multitude of subjects in one session. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Lindsey Wander where we talk about how to create a resume and prepare for an interview. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Providing students with the opportunities, strategies, and resources to learn in a way that works for them -Inequalities in learning between different demographic groups -Educating not just a child's brain, but also their heart, mind, and soul -Looking at the bigger picture and addressing a student's anxieties and stressors -Approaching education holistically -The evolution of resumes and what they can look like today -Making your resume clear, concise, and compelling -The time for uniformity and the time for creativity on a resume or an interview Connect with Lindsey Wander: Website: www.worldwisetutoring.com www.educateradiateelevate.org   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oie Dobier – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 033 Oie Dobier Basing her education and career on all the wrong things, Oie Dobier chose a path that others expected of her which led to changing her major, jumping from job to job, and finding herself always looking for the next big challenge. Then, in her early 40's, she was passed over for a promotion which caused her to do some self-reflection. Although the pay was good, she realized she was tired, bored and unfulfilled. She had chosen a career that didn't align with her values, passions or natural talents and felt it was time to be more purposeful with her life. What if there was a way to teach young people how to figure this out earlier; a way to help them start their career in something fulfilling, interesting and enjoyable? What if she could save them from the years of struggle and unfulfillment that she and so many others have experienced? As a result, “Project Who Am I?” was born, and she's been helping young people learn about themselves and apply this knowledge to their educational and career pursuits ever since. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Oie Dobier where we learn all about Project Who Am I and talk about how to discover your true authentic self.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Realizing late in life what your true calling is -Understanding your true natural talents early to build a successful professional foundation -Giving your children the time to explore their interests -The importance of a strong mentor and facilitator for an individual about to make education and career decisions -Chasing your passions and watching everything else follow -Cracking the nut of a disinterested student Connect with Oie Dobier: Website: www.projectwhoami.com www.projectwhoami.com/career Email: info@projectwhoami.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Fitzgerald – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 032 Jason Fitzgerald Jason M. Fitzgerald is President and a Partner with Penn Strategies, a consulting firm with expertise in grant writing, public relations and grassroots advocacy focusing on economic development. Fitzgerald serves as an economic development consultant for numerous municipalities and authorities throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He has assisted in writing and advocating for over 500 million dollars in grant funding for projects on behalf of municipalities, manufacturers, school districts, institutions of higher education, and private developers. Prior to joining Penn Strategies, Fitzgerald was a top aide to Representative Steve Cappelli and worked for Impact Advertising, a national marketing and public relations firm. He also served as Pennsylvania State Director for the National Association of Home Builders campaign to increase awareness of the importance of home building on the overall health of the economy.    Fitzgerald is a frequent contributor to several regional newspapers and serves as Host of Pennsylvania Now, which features interviews of prominent individuals in arts, entertainment, politics and thought. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Jason Fitzgerald where we talk about the positive impact you can make with a career in political science. Here is what to expect on this week's show: ·        Taking the skills that you are born with and making the best of them ·        Grant writing and how it can help a community ·        Lobbyists and the side of the you don't usually hear about ·        Being an advocate for the positive changes you believe in ·        The importance of writing and research skills ·        The demand for professionals in public administration ·        The long-term dividends a liberal arts education brings ·        How a degree in political science doesn't have to make you a politician Connect with Jason Fitzgerald: Website: www.pennstrategiespa.com Phone: 570-337-2028 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Johnson – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 031 Mark Johnson Mark Johnson is a wealth advisor with RBF Wealth Advisors in St. Louis, Missouri and is the founder of StudentLoansRx. Mark is a thirty-year veteran of the investment and financial planning industry and is a pioneer in helping emerging dental and other healthcare professionals with smart student loan repayment strategies as part of an overall financial plan. Since founding StudentLoansRx in 2014, Mark has educated thousands of emerging dental and other healthcare professionals on smart repayment strategies and has helped dozens create plans to tackle their student loan debt alongside other important financial goals like: investment and insurance planning and practice ownership.Top of FormBottom of FormTop of FormBottom of Form Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Mark Johnson where we talk about how much debt dentists and medical doctors graduate with have and how they repay it.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Why you shouldn't buy a Lexus as soon as you graduate -The amount of student loan debt a typical medical professional graduates with -Why it's never too soon to form a student loan repayment strategy -Creating a living expenses budget with the right priorities -The importance of creating an emergency savings fund -Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs -The different financial realities upon graduation for dentists and doctors -Understanding the nuances of each of the federal repayment programs -The lack of education surrounding student loans Connect with Mark Johnson: Website: www.studentloansrx.com Email: studentloansrx@rbfadvisors.net Phone: 314-997-1652 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom Sforza – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 030 Tom Sforza Tom Sforza, along with his wife Lisa, opened Best Auto Service and Tire Center, located in Tannersville, Pennsylvania, in 2007. Best Auto Service is a BBB accredited business & certified with AAA. BEST AUTO also joined partners and became an A/C DEL CO PREFERRED SERVICE CENTER, and a MyTireShop Certified Shop. Tom's work history is quite extensive working for General Motors Cadillac division for 18 years. He attained a MASTER TECHNICIAN status with Cadillac and also held an ASE MASTER TECHNICIAN status as well. Working for SUBARU in 1997 he added SENIOR MASTER TECHNICIAN to his resume.Top of FormBottom of FormTop of FormBottom of Form Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Tom Sforza where we talk about how mechanics deal with changing technology. Here is what to expect on this week's show: Starting your own business to control your own destiny Setting goal that are attainable and adjustable to create success The requirements and certifications needed to become a mechanic The importance of strong communication skills in any business All the metrics a car's computer monitors and how a mechanic reads them Technical schools as a great option to embark on a career in mechanics The opportunities for women in the automotive industry The high demand for automotive repair technicians Having to spend money to make money What a beginner's set of tools costs to get into automotive repair The ever-changing landscape of automotive technology and how to keep up with it Connect with Tom Sforza: Website: www.bestautoservicecenter.com www.bestautousedcars.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Mathis – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 029 Jim Mathis Wheatland, Wyoming Rancher and Businessman Jim Mathis purchased WyoTech in 2018, a top-notch training school that generates career ready mechanic graduates for the growing demand in the automotive and diesel industry. Since its purchase, the school has grown exponentially. As a former student, second-time President, and now owner, Jim Mathis knows firsthand the value technical training has on the ranching industry, and industries across America. Technical hands-on training brings students to the frontlines of American industries. Jim has spent his career supporting technical training schools across the nation thrive. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Jim Mathis where we talk about the option of technical training schools. Here is what to expect on this week's show:  A brand as a personal identification and not just a corporate identifier Instilling an entrepreneurial spirit in students to equip them with the ability to investigate all of life's possibilities Training students to meet the work world by grading their professionalism The financial aid available for technical schools The wide demographic of the students that attend technical schools An employer's willingness to wine and dine technical school graduates to enticed them to consider jobs with them By comparison to traditional educational models, the short amount of time it takes to find yourself in a career with a technical school The unique entrance requirements at technical schools The high demand for blue collar work today Connect with Jim Mathis: Guest Contact Info: Website: www.wyotech.edu           Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dana Roth – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 028 Dana Roth Dana Roth is an independent college counselor and executive function coach who lives with her family in MetroWest Boston. Dana worked in colleges and universities for 13 years prior to launching her practice, and has extensive experience working with students with and without disabilities in college admissions, academic support, and disability services. Dana earned her Bachelor of Arts from Lafayette College, her M.S.Ed. in Higher Education Management and Reading, Writing, and Literacy from the University of Pennsylvania, and her Certificate in Postsecondary Disability Services from the University of Connecticut. She is currently working on her Certificate in Learning Differences and Neurodiversity, with a specialization in Executive Function through Landmark College. Dana loves connecting with students to help them identify and succeed at best-fit schools and teaching strategies and skills to empower students to do their best work. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Dana Roth where we talk about how students with disabilities can succeed in college. Here is what to expect on this week's show: Helping students become more self-empowered learners Understanding the more discreet components of the college search and application process to be more in control The colleges that specialize in working with students with learning disabilities The seven executive function skills that are important for students The academic accommodations typically afforded students with disabilities at colleges The Americans with Disabilities Act that effects students and how that may differ for students in K-12 and for students in college How anxiety is contagious and how not to have it affect your child in the college admissions process Understanding what created success for a student in high school and applying that to college   Connect with Dana Roth: Email: danaroseroth@gmail.com Website: www.danarotheducationalconsulting.com Instagram: @danarothconsulting Facebook: @danarotheducationalconsulting         Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gary Heldt – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 027 Gary Heldt Gary D. Heldt, Jr., CPA is the owner of Small Business Advisors in Gambrills, Maryland, serving clients in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. He has more than 30 years of experience providing business owners and individual clients with a wide range of accounting and consulting services. Prior to opening his own firm, Gary worked in accounting at several companies and non-profit organizations.  Top of Form   Bottom of Form Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Gary Heldt where we talk about taxes and financial aid.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: How much money is out there for financial aid that people don't take advantage of The similarities between financial aid and the tax code in how it works and its rules The mistake of waiting too long before applying for financial aid The ability to negotiate your financial aid package Working the tax code to increase your financial aid   Connect with Gary Heldt: Guest Contact Info: Website: www.sbadvisors.com     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lisa Chastain – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 026 Lisa Chastain Lisa Chastain is the #1 Best Selling Author of, Girl, Get Your $hit Together, and for over 20 years, has been coaching, mentoring and advising millennials. From an advisor in higher education, to Financial Advisor, and as a seasoned life coach, she has learned what it takes to make dreams become reality. Today, as a money coach, she works with women to take control of their finances so that they can be their best in every aspect of their lives. Throughout her 30's, Lisa struggled with money, her marriage and across the board in life. From being at the top of her game in 2011 to blowing through her life savings, to starting her own business (and failing!), Lisa knows firsthand what financial struggle feels like. After losing everything and going through a divorce in 2017, Lisa has rebuilt her life and business to mentor women to make money simple so that they can stop stressing, and get to living joyful, heart centered, and worthy lives.  Lisa has been featured on CNBC, in Fortune, Entrepreneur, Bloomberg Business, Cosmopolitan, and O-The Oprah Magazine, and is on a mission to help women everywhere raise their collective worth so that the world can be a healthier, safer and more loving place to be. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Lisa Chastain where we talk about predicting your financial future.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: The problems people find themselves in as a result of not having a dialogue about money while navigating life's steps Inspiring others to level-up their financial lives Aligning your life choices with your financial decisions to live your best life A story of starting at the bottom and reaching the top The importance of not limiting yourself and dreaming big The positive life changes that come along with raising your financial IQ   Connect with Lisa Chastain: Guest Contact Info: Email: lisa@lisachastain.com   Website: www.lisachastain.com     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Pamela Ellis – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 025 Dr. Pamela Ellis Author Pamela Ellis, MBA, PhD—also known as The Education Doctor®—has helped hundreds of young people successfully navigate the college-admissions process. Dr. Pamela graduated from Stanford University and the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, and she earned a doctorate from the Stanford University School of Education. As CEO of Compass Education Strategies and a leader of operations at Compass College Advisory, her experience with the education system includes advising school districts, community organizations, and institutes of higher education. As a result of her research into student transitions from high school to college—and evaluating the ways colleges successfully retain their student populations once admitted—she produced The Education Doctor® curriculum. She has visited more than four hundred colleges and universities internationally to gain insight into their varying cultures and to explore the range of academic and social opportunities available to students on campus. Her research areas include high school to college transition, parent engagement, African American males in education, and college completion. She lives in Dayton, Ohio. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Dr. Pamela Ellis where we talk about what your child needs to know before they go to university.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The important role of mindset in any successful journey one takes -Pacing yourself and setting realistic goals in high school so as not to become overwhelmed -The benefits of a summer program to help a student vet their future career possibilities and to experience a college atmosphere -The ACT, the LSAT, and whether a student should take and submit one, both, or neither -The gains made by making high school and the college application experience an enjoyable one -Why the student and not the parent should own their college application process -The progress made and the progress yet to made in graduating African American Males from college   Connect with Dr. Pamela Ellis: Guest Contact Info: Email: drpamela@compasscollegeadvisory.com   Website: www.compasscollegeadvisory.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theeducationdoctor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEducationDoctor Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theeducationdoctor/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kate Sonnenberg – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 024 Kate Sonnenberg Kate Sonnenberg is the founder of KS College Success and a college admissions expert who has seen the application process from numerous vantage points. She is a former application reader in the Princeton University Admissions Office, where she read thousands of applications each year.    Kate is a graduate of Princeton University and the Columbia University School of Law. In addition to practicing law and teaching English composition and legal writing, Kate has been an active volunteer for years. Prior to launching KS College Success, she provided essay coaching for students who could not afford private counseling, tutored students in Newark, NJ, and, as chair of the Princeton University Alumni Schools Committee in Essex (NJ) and Hudson (NJ) counties, Kate coordinated the alumni interviewing program in northern New Jersey for over a decade. Her commitment to volunteer work continues today. Kate devotes 30% of her time to pro bono work, either directly advising students or supporting guidance counselors at high schools where they can have as many as 400 students in their caseload. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Kate Sonnenberg about the most important question on your college application.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Thinking of the college application process as an experience worth having -The right number of colleges to apply to -The anxiety and stress that a test-optional college application can reduce -The elevated importance of essays on a test-optional application -The difference that strong teacher recommendations can make -How getting to know your high school guidance counselor early can help you -How a sloppy application can hurt your chances of acceptance -How the only thing predictable about the college admissions process is that it's unpredictable   Connect with Kate Sonnenberg: Guest Contact Info: Email: kate@kscollegesuccess.com     Website: www.kscollegesuccess.com         Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Casey McVay – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 023 Casey McVay Casey is the assistant director of admissions at Clarion University. She, herself, graduated from Clarion University in 2009 with a degree in Mass Media Arts and Journalism. After a career as an advertising executive, Casey made the leap to college admissions at her Alma Matter. She is a person with integrity, high expectations of herself and others, and a team player. She has a passion for being involved and contributing positively to the greater community. In 2017 she won the Future Leaders' and Entrepreneurs' Exchange Young Professional of the Year Award. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Casey McVay where we the unique needs of rural students.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: - The importance of workforce development in rural communities -How to get rural students the access to information required to achieve whatever goals they are pursuing - The beneficial collaboration between colleges and professionals in the industries found in rural areas -Working with students to find what fits their academic, professional and, lifestyle goals - The unique needs of working adult students and how they can continue to pursue higher education later in life -Working with students that have an entrepreneur mindset -The changing landscape of smaller colleges and universities as they restructure to focus on their strengths   Connect with Casey McVay: Guest Contact Info: Email: mcvay@clarion.edu   Website: www.clarion.edu       Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Chen – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 022 Josh Michael Chen Michael Chen serves as the assistant dean of admissions at Western State College of Law. In this role he develops and implements initiatives necessary to achieve institutional recruitment and enrollment goals. He also represents the law school by traveling nationwide to offcampus recruiting programs, events and conferences. After receiving applications, he is responsible for reviewing the credentials of applicants to make admissions and scholarship decisions. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Michael Chen where we discuss what you should know before pursuing a law degree.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The many different career opportunities a law degree presents you with -The ability to major in any subject you want before attending law school -Part-time law school and the flexibility it provides -The different types of financial aid available for law school -The difference between unaccredited and accredited law schools -Trial law and paper law as the two different types of law -The ability to switch your focus late in your career with a law degree -What JD advantaged careers are   Connect with Michael Chen: Guest Contact Info: Website: www.wsulaw.edu       Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Salisbury – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 021 Mark Salisbury Mark Salisbury spent 25 years in higher education as a soccer coach, admissions counselor, data analyst, and academic administrator. He has a PhD in higher education and studies how colleges and universities succeed (or fail) in helping students learn and grow. His research has been featured by NPR, WNYC, The Mark Salisbury Chronicle of Higher Education, and Inside Higher Ed. Two years ago, Mark started TuitionFit to solve the lack of college price transparency by crowdsourcing information. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Mark Salisbury where we discuss why you need to know about price transparency.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The difference between a college's sticker price and what a student actually pays -How shopping for college is like shopping for a used car -The confidence and leverage that comes with knowing the data regarding what a college charges a student -Financial stability after graduating college as the goal to strive for, not just getting accepted to the college of your choice -How not showing too much interest in attending a particular school can get you a better price -Price being one of the first things to consider when deciding what schools to apply to   Connect with Mark Salisbury: Guest Contact Info: Website: tuitionfit.org Email: mark@tuitionfit.org   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Hogancamp – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 020 Josh Hogancamp Josh Hogancamp spent over a decade working with college students in the nonprofit world with specializations in training, development, and multicultural teams. Josh was able to see firsthand the harm that massive student debt can cause young adults trying to start their life. He joined the CAPlus team to help families walk through the college process with confidence. Josh graduated from Roberts Wesleyan College with a degree in Organizational Management and holds multiple certificates in coaching and leadership development. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Josh Hogancamp where we discuss six steps that help families maximize their financial aid. Offers.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The financial peril that can occur with too much student loan debt -The mistakes you can make on a financial aid form that can cost you thousands -Winning as finding the right major, at the right school, for the right price -Looking at a student's complete academic profile to determine a college that is best suited for them -How to make your college application stand out -Colleges as businesses and not public services -The best time for a family to start planning for college -The new realities associated with test-optional applications   Connect with Josh Hogancamp: Guest Contact Info: Website: www.collegeassistanceplus.com     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roger Lorelle – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 019 Roger Lorelle Roger Lorelle is the founder and president of Collegiate Funding Solutions. For over 20 years, CFS' mission has been helping families save ON and not just for the cost of a college education.    CFS partners with college planners, financial advisors and institutions and provides them with the software, expertise, education and support necessary to help families send their children to the right college, for the right reasons, and without ruining their retirement savings or incur suffocating student loan debt. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Roger Lorelle where we discuss the programs available to help you get the best college at the best price.   Here is what to expect on this week's show: -A discussion on the importance of being an informed buyer of a college education -The essential items a family needs to know about in in order to save on a college education -Low hanging fruit on the tree of college cost saving opportunities -Your EFC number that assesses a family's ability to pay for college -Prudent ways for families to save for college -FAFSA and other tax related considerations when planning for college  -How you may qualify for financial aid even when you think you won't -What to know with multiple children in college   Connect with Roger Lorelle: Guest Contact Info: Website: www.collegiatefundingsolutions.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kortney Greene – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 018 Joy Ross Davis Joy Ross Davis is the author of several books and writes imaginative fiction featuring unusual angels as main characters. Her novel, Countenance, won a Silver Medal of Excellence in an international readers' awards contest while her novella, Emalyn's Treasure won a coveted Gold Medal from Readers' Favorites. She is, however, more than just an eloquent storyteller! After a twenty-five-year career as a college English professor, she traveled to Ireland and worked as a writer and photographer, publishing numerous travel articles and photos for an Irish travel agency. She has been a contributing feature writer for a local newspaper and has published articles in Southern literary magazines. She has a Ph.D. in Creative Writing and lives in Alabama with her son and beloved dogs. She loves to speak at conferences, book club meetings, and events to share her connection with angels and the stories behind her books. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Joy Ross Davis where we discuss where to begin if you want to be a writer. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -How fulfilling the dream of becoming a writer is difficult but possible -The different career paths a writer can embark upon -The importance of finding an editor who is honest with you -Writing from places you know to add the details that make it real and interesting -The benefits of writing every day, even when you have nothing to say -Joy shares her own personal creative process   Connect with Joy Ross Davis: Guest Contact Info: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jdavisangelwriter Twitter: https://twitter.com/joyrossdavis?lang=en   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kortney Greene – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 017 Kortney Greene Kortney has served in secondary education for 18 years in both the private and public/charter schools and has 12 years of college admissions counseling experience. She has managed, created, and implemented programs geared toward diverse groups of students. More recently, Kortney joined Firat Education in June 2019. Kortney has advised over 225 students and has organized college admissions visits from in-state, out-of-state, public, and private institutions. She continues to nurture those relationships with college admissions representatives nationwide. Kortney is very familiar with the Ivy League college admissions landscape, noted by student acceptances from Princeton, Yale, and University of Pennsylvania. Kortney has also served as a Recruiter and a Coordinator for scholarship programs, helping her high school students receive over $10 million in financial aid for college. She is passionate about seeing young people realize their strengths and abilities – to build upon that foundation – and pursue dreams they never thought possible. Kortney enjoys the journey of helping high school students find their strengths as a means to guide their decision-making choices through the college selection process.  Kortney is based in the Phoenix Area and serves clients in-person in Phoenix and online nationally. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Kortney Greene where we discuss the importance of a one-on-one educational consultant when preparing for college. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The hardships faced by first generation college students who don't have a model to illustrate the process of entering college -The many bumps in the road encountered by a student without an educational consultant -The benefits of a third-party consultant to tackle some subjects a student might not want to discuss with their parents -A discussion on the assessment process to create a tailor-made plan that fits each individual student's uniqueness -Matching a student's strengths and interests with colleges that reflect them -The many different scholarship opportunities available to students and how to navigate them   Connect with Kortney Greene: Guest Contact Info: Websites mentioned firateducation.com Email kortney@firateducation.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rebecca Bailey – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 016 Rebecca Bailey Rebecca Bailey is a certified college financial consultant and CEO of Higher Ed Hustle. She is a first-generation college student who navigated the financial aid process alone, but wants to use her experience, knowledge and expertise to help prospective, current and graduating students to get to set themselves up for their best financial future while paying for college. She knows exactly how overwhelming this process can be, but also how to take control of it. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Rebecca Bailey about clearing up confusion on student loans and their repayment. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -How sooner is better than later to start repaying loans to reduce interest costs -The importance of a student establishing credit early and the right moves to make to improve their score -The differences between subsidized and unsubsidized loans and using them to your advantage -The importance of a pro-active approach when planning how to finance an education -The right way to manage your tax plan to aid in college financing -How to rid yourself of college tuition sticker shock   Connect with Rebecca Bailey: Guest Contact Info: Websites mentioned www.higheredhustle.com LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-ed-hustle/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HigherEdHustle/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/higheredhustle/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rachel Coleman – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 015 Rachel Coleman Rachel Coleman is an IEC (independent education consultant) and Co-Founder of College Essay Editor who has worked for 6+ years as an independent business owner in the college admissions counseling field, helping high school students across all disciplines navigate their academics, financial aid, and college applications. Rachel received her B.A. in Comparative Literature from Stanford University and her College Counseling Certificate from UCLA. She is now an active member of HECA (Higher Education Consultants Association). Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Rachel Coleman where we discuss everything you need to know about your college admissions essay. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The college admissions essay's elevated significance with many colleges going test-optional -How a college essay helps a student “punch above” their GPA by showcasing other strengths -The many different ways a college essay editor can help students of all abilities and in all aspects of the admission process -The best time for a student to begin thinking about and developing their college essay -How to choose the right topic for a college essay to make a student stand out Connect with Rachel Coleman: Guest Contact Info: Websites mentioned collegeessayeditor.com Email rachel.c1@alumin.stanford.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Nicole Hall – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 014 Dr. Nicole Hall Dr. Nicole Hall is a higher education professional, social science researcher, urban planner, and creative spirit. She has been recognized for success in transforming programs through enhancement of strategy, innovation, and leadership, and is well-versed in initiating social change and inclusion by forging strategic alliances and outreach programs.   Dr. Nicole Hall is currently the executive director of graduate admissions at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Dr. Nicole Hall about what you need to know when applying to an Arts and Design Institute. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The commitment and dedication it takes to be an academic artist -The careers available to one who pursues an art degree and why there's no reason for a parent to worry about it -How the experiences between an Art Institute and traditional college differ -Portfolio days and how they can benefit one pursuing an education in the arts -What makes an artist's portfolio good and what makes one bad - -Community and University partnerships and the positive impacts they can have   Connect with Dr. Nicole Hall: Guest Contact Info: Email nhall1@saic.edu LinkedIn Linkedin.com/in/nicovision Phone 1-312-629-6103   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Harris – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 13 Richard Harris Richard Harris is a student mentor who helps high school and college students reach their full potential. As a former high school counselor at two different schools, Richard has guided students through the high school to college planning process. In addition, Richard has also led the function that hired college students into their first jobs at two different multi-billion-dollar companies.   Because he's “pushed” students into college and “pulled” them out, Richard brings a unique perspective that helps students and families navigate the educational planning process.    Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Richard Harris about how students can find their careers and path through life. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Finding the natural ability that you have to be the string that guides your path through life -Why your choice of a major is more important than your choice of college -The duel between a student and the college system -Knowing what questions to ask yourself when deciding what career to pursue -How parents can get involved to help a student envision their end-goal   Connect with Richard Harris: Websites Mentioned: thepathfindersystem.com Guest Contact Info: Email richard@thepathfindersystem.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ross Beschler & Brenna Geffers – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 012 Ross Beschler & Brenna Geffers Ross Beschler has been a professional actor for nearly 20 years and is a founding member of the Wilma Theatre's Hothouse Company in Philadelphia. He is also a Hothouse Associate Trainer and teaches the company techniques in summer sessions and international workshops.   Brenna Geffers is a theater-maker and director based in Philadelphia. She has been nominated for Outstanding Direction, Outstanding Choreography, and Outstanding New Play under the Barrymore Awards and has been named Best Director by the Philadelphia Critics' Choice. She has created many new works for theater, opera, and museums like her immersive choose-your-own-adventure opera, Shadow House. She also creates highly dynamic and stylized versions of classic texts like Machinal and Marat/Sade, as well as contemporary pieces like, Knives in Hens and Lulu's Golden Shoes.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Ross Beschler and Brenna Geffers about a career on the stage. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Some of the unexpected benefits of remote learning -Performance art and theater in a digital space -The many different educational avenues to consider when embarking on a career in performance art -How to nail the audition process -The future of theater in a post-COVID world   Connect with Ross Beschler & Brenna Geffers: Links Mentioned: rossbeschler.com die-castphilly.org   Guest Contact Info: Email brenna.geffers@gmail.com ross.beschler@gmail.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bob Smith – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 011 Bob Smith With a degree in chemical engineering, and the founder of several small to medium sized businesses, Bob Smith opened the Bethlehem Huntington Learning center in 2010. Bob has helped thousands of high school students achieve admission to their dream colleges and universities by helping them improve their SAT and ACT College Entrance exam scores   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Bob Smith about the difference between the SAT and ACT. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -How the SAT and ACT have changed over the last several years -What makes the ACT and SAT different and how to decide which to submit -Why a college applicant should submit an ACT or SAT score on a college application -How to improve your scores on the ACT or SAT -When to start preparing for, and when to take the ACT or SAT   Connect with Bob Smith: Guest Contact Info: Website: hungtingtonhelps.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seth Greene – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 10 Seth Greene Seth Greene is the nation's foremost authority on growing your business with a podcast. Seth is the co-host of the Sharkpreneur podcast with Shark Tank's Kevin Harrington that was just named “One of the Top 10 Podcasts to Listen to in 2019” by Nasdaq. He is the founder of the direct response marketing firm Market Domination llc, and he is a 7-time best selling author who has been interviewed on NBC, CBS, Forbes, Inc, CBS Moneywatch and many more.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Seth Greene about how to find money for college Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Finding free money available to help pay for a college education -Tax advantaged ways to pay for college -Society's changed landscaspe and how to exploit that to help fund academic pursuits -The importance of determining what offer is a loan, a grant, or a scholarship -How playing the game correctly is better than hunting and chasing down scholarships   Connect with Seth Greene:   Websites mentioned: howtofindmoneyforcollege.com   Guest Contact Info: Email seth@marketdominationllc.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kaitlin Fish – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 9 Kaitlin Fish Kaitlin Fish is a Pathologists' Assistant (PA), at Yale University specializing in Autopsy Pathology. Kaitlin graduated from Quinnipiac University for PA school, and the University of New Haven for her bachelors, double majoring in Forensic Science and Biology pre-med. Kaitlin Fish is originally from PA, but currently lives in CT with her cat and new puppy! She enjoys plants, gardening and spending time outdoors.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Kaitlin Fish about the exciting field of pathology. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Dissecting worms and watching CSI, and how that can lead you to a fulfilling career -The balance between a personal life and work, and how to find it·         -The difference between a forensic pathologist, a medical examiner, and a coroner -The role that a strong work ethic plays in achieving your goals -The varying paths you can take when embarking on a career in pathology   Connect with Kaitlin Fish: Guest Contact Info: Email kaitlin.fish@yale.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cherese Spand – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 8 Cherese Spand Cherese L. Spand has thrived in the financial services industry for over 16 years. She attended Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry NY. Her corporate and secular experience has moved her to educate her clients in the areas of insurance, tax-free retirement planning and asset protection. Her background as a Cosmetology Educator with strong managerial skills and training created a perfect storm. The collaboration of the two industries prompted Cherese to address a need that was lacking, Financial Literacy for Women and Women in business.   Cherese's unique skill set and determination has set her apart in the Financial Services arena. Her focus is educating families on the importance of having a solid financial blueprint. Cherese is a member of Rotary International. She sits on the Executive Board for Monroe County Women's Commission. And the Diversity Council for the Chamber of Commerce. She won Distinguished Rotarian of the year for 2018-2019.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Cherese Spand about helping women become financially savvy, healthy, and empowered. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Love and compassion as the missing piece of the puzzle for many financial advisors -The importance of stepping into your passion sooner rather than later -How there is no time like the present to start planning for a secure financial future -The possibilities of taking a passion and turning it into income -The waste of energy that being overwhelmed is because you can achieve your goals by tackling little bits at a time   Connect with Cherese Spand: Links Mentioned: shewealth.net Guest Contact Info: Email shewealth2018@gmail.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/cherese-s-6915a053 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Suzanne Davis – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 007 Suzanne Davis Suzanne Davis is a writing coach and tutor who helps high school and college students master the academic writing skills they need to excel in their classes. Another mission she has is to help students write compelling and memorable college admissions and scholarship essays that get them into their dream schools. She has a B.A. and M.A. in English and an M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).     Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Suzanne Davis about what a writing coach can do for someone applying to colleges. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The signs to look for that tell you your child may need a writing coach to help with their college applications -Finding your writing voice and how that is important in many arenas -The importance of college admissions essays as school move away from standardized tests -How to stay organized and manage your deadlines to make the college application process a breeze -The pressure some parents place on children in regard to college and looking at trade schools as another option   Connect with Claudia Miller: Links Mentioned: academicwritingsuccess.com academicwritingsuccess.com/free-online-writing-consultation academiswritingsuccess.com/at-a-glance-scholarship-research/   Guest Contact Info: Email sdavis@academicwritingsuccess.com Facebook facebook.com/SuzanneDavisOnlineWritingTutor Pinterest Pinterest.com/SuzanneDavisOnlineWritingTutor LinkedIn Linkedin.com/in/suzannedavisacadwritingtutor     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Claudia Miller – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 006 Claudia Miller Claudia started her career like many people do: in an entry-level role, not loving her job, and barely making any money. But unlike many of her colleagues at that time, she wasn't willing to settle. While she's certainly ambitious, and no stranger to hard work, the idea of working in a non-ideal situation for years on end to “pay her dues” or “slowly work her way up the ladder for 20-30 years” just didn't appeal to her. It quickly became clear that she needed to find a better, faster path to career advancement. She decided to study people who always seemed to be in the right place at the right time, landing their dream job at an amazing salary or the ones who always seem to get those promotions and $50,000 raises, “right on schedule”, to see if they had anything in common that she might be able to replicate for herself. That's when she started making some surprising discoveries. Within 12 months, she went from feeling “meh” about her work to breaking into an amazing management role, getting multiple promotions and repeatedly negotiating $30,000 salary increases each time. She stopped blindly climbing the corporate ladder, and instead became the architect of her own career success. Now, she is on the mission of helping others achieve their career goals. She's helped her clients negotiate salary increases of up to $50,000. She was featured on major news outlets and was named as one of the "Top 23 Most Innovative Career Coaches of 2020" by Business Insider.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Claudia Miller about investing in yourself and making the moves to have the career you want. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -Success favors the bold and how fear should not stop you from making moves -People are happy to help, and it doesn't hurt to reach out and ask -The power of remote networking and the connections made -Not taking the first offer and waiting for the job that is right for you -Resumes as the key to an interview and yourself as the key to a job offer   Connect with Claudia Miller: Links Mentioned: claudiatmiller.com Guest Contact Info: Twitter @ctelles2 LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/claudiatmiller Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Howard Wolpoff   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 005 Howard Woploff Howard Wolpoff is a marketing executive with over 25 years of experience helping hundreds of businesses create profitable solutions to drive sales, attract and maintain customers, and build a solid corporate brand. He has helped launch three businesses: Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment, the Brooklyn Cyclones minor league baseball team and GRIDIRONNOW.COM, the premier site for SEC football. He previously has served as the Director of Best Media in Houston, TX and the Vice President of Client Integration at Client Focused Media where he also produced four local TV shows and was a host on Buzz TV where he interviewed local business owners and leaders. Born and raised in New York City, Howard moved to Jacksonville in 2007. He is married with three children and earned his MBA in Marketing from Fordham University. Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Howard Woploff about marketing strategies for successful career positions. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -How colleges teach students to be employees and fall short in educating them on how to be entrepreneurs -Identifying your audience and how to strategically get in front of them -The advantages of virtual networks and how, in some ways, they can be more fruitful than in-person networks·         -A look at marketing and how everything boils down to it as it pertains to a successful business -The importance, as a college student, of picking a major and a schedule that suits you best   Connect with Howard Woploff: Links Mentioned: collegedidntteachyou.com profitmasterbusinesssolutions.com podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/small-business-marketing-then-and-now/id1534322776     Guest Contact info: Twitter @hwoploff LinkedIn Linkedin.com/in/howardwoploff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jack Klett   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 004 Jack Klett Jack Klett's journey has taken him from enrollment management to academic affairs to the private for-profit and non-profit sectors. Currently, he partners with graduate education stakeholders to advocate for inclusive, non-bias, and equitable admission practices as part of the Academic Partnerships team at ETS. Most recently, he lead the graduate and online division for Capture Higher Ed, an ed-tech company partnering with colleges and universities to achieve their recruitment and enrollment goals. Since transitioning from his role as Constituent Service Coordinator for Congressman Rush Holt of NJ, he has served five universities in an administrative & teaching role – Rider University, Drexel University, Philadelphia University, West Chester University of Pennsylvania, and Jefferson. The university setting provides for cultures of possibility, opportunity-finding, and solution-seeking – the ideal environment for those who see problems as innovation opportunities. Jack continues to teach as associate faculty for Thomas Jefferson University, where he also led the new student recruitment effort during year one of their merger with Philadelphia University. Jack's Bachelor of Arts degree in history is from Rider University, and his graduate degree from Villanova University is in the field of political science.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Jack Klett about higher education and the future of college admissions tests. Here is what to expect on this week's show: - How higher education can allow an individual to become everything they wanted to be - A discussion on the concept of, “Starting with the why,” and how understanding one's purpose can yield positive outcomes - The power of authenticity and how it can go a long way in making valuable connections - An explanation of the importance of an institutions mission and how everything they do should be in concert with it - Predictions on the future of college admissions tests Connect with Jack: Email klett29@gmail.com Website Forthepublicpod.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/jackklett Podcast The Buzz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lucy Priggot-Pawl   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 003 Lucy Priggot-Prawl Lucy Priggot-Pawl is a giant in the world of advocacy for students with special needs. A political science major at Rutgers University, Miss Lucy, as she is affectionately called, has used that education to make headway in the political arena fighting for the rights of those with disabilities. Serving on the board of a number of non-profit agencies and appointed to numerous government panels on advocacy for those with special needs, Lucy has a wealth of experience and knowledge regarding advocating for the rights of those with disabilities.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Lucy Priggot-Pawl about the importance of a Special Education and Disabilities advocate. Here is what to expect on this week's show: ·        How you can ensure that children, youth, and young adults with disabilities, and special health care needs, lead rich, active lives as members of their schools and communities ·        What IEP's are and how they can help a special needs student achieve their goals ·        How nobody can tell you what you can, or can't be ·        The wealth of resources for parents of children with special needs or disabilities ·        The importance of finding a person's strengths and supporting them Connect with Lucy: laprawl@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julie Kim   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 002 Julie Kim Julie Kim is a college consultant and graduate of USC and Harvard University (Ed.M). She offers a unique perspective as the first in her family to navigate the American college admissions process, and works with students of similar backgrounds to develop their own stand-out factor among thousands of other Ivy League applicants. Her company, Julie Kim Consulting, introduces a passion-forward approach to the college admissions process, landing students acceptances to schools like Harvard, Rice, Columbia, Brown, and more.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Julie Kim about how to stand out in the college admissions process. Here is what to expect on this week's show: -The importance of doing what excites you and what you are passionate about -How academic interests and strong recommendation letters can trump performance on standardized tests in the college application process - Not letting your geographic location limit how you reach out and network - How a successful path is charted by focusing on who you are, your story, your values, and what you can bring to the table - How quality over quantity wins every time Connect with Julie: Websites mentioned www.juliekimconsulting.com/masterclass LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/julie-kim-proehl-0314698 Twitter @juliesungkim Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marlaina Kloepfer   – College Financial Aid and Career Navigation with Tom & Maria Geffers and Seth Greene Episode 001 Marlaina Kloepfer Marlaina Kloepfer, Ed.D., is a graduate education professional who has served the Philadelphia Region through positions in Enrollment Management, teaching, and advising for over ten years. Marlaina completed her doctoral degree in Higher Education Leadership at Widener University where her research focused on the graduate student experience. In her current role, she advises graduate students in online health sciences programs. She teaches Governance and Law, as well as, Adult Learning Theory courses in a doctoral program. She has presented her research at the American Research Association (AERA) and the Association for Graduate Enrollment Management (NAGAP) national conferences.   Listen to this informational College Financial Aid and Career Navigation episode with Marlaina Kloepfer about all the things adult learners should know before returning to continue their education. Here is what to expect on this week's show: ·        The difference between adult learners and traditional learners in institutions of higher education and how their approach and perspectives vary ·        How educational institutions are evolving and adapting to accommodate adult leaners ·        The transformational experience that is returning to education and how it influences one's professional identity, opening doors in the workplace that may have previously been closed ·        The importance of self-reflection when deciding to embark on a new educational path and how that can help you better achieve your goals   Connect with Marlaina: writingwithDrMarlaina@gmail.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/marlaina-kloepfer-77582b22 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom and Maria Geffers of Career and College Counselors along with Nationally recognized college financial aid expert Seth Greene teach two things: How to cut the cost of college tuition an average of $19,077 per child, per year AND how to land your dream job after you graduate by choosing the right career and major. To get access to more information on how you can make the right choice, simply register at https://www.careercollegecounselors.com/contact. To find out how to save an average of $19,077 per year per child on college tuition – go to www.howtofindmoneyforcollege.com. On the podcast Tom, Maria and Seth bring together leading experts in their fields who have experience in the college admission and career application process. They share their secrets so you can do it too. And now, here's your host, Tom, Maria and Seth! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices