Podcasts about mefa

Every dollar saved for college is a dollar you won't have to borrow. But even if you can save, what's the best way to put money aside for higher education? Amy and Mike invited financial expert Joanne Dashiell to explore new ways to use your 529 plan. What are five things you will learn in this episode? What exactly is a 529 plan, and how does it work? Can you talk about the two different types of 529 plans, savings and prepaid? What are some of the tax advantages associated with using a 529 plan? How have 2025 policy changes expanded 529 plan flexibility? What is the one message you hope families take away about saving for college?  MEET OUR GUEST Joanne Dashiell serves as Chief Marketing Officer at CollegeWell and Private College 529 Plan. In her current role, Joanne is responsible for leading all marketing efforts across multiple audiences and channels for CollegeWell. She brings over 20 years of higher education experience and a passion for helping families and students make their college dreams an affordable reality. Through her varied roles, Joanne has helped tens of thousands of families prepare for college by developing education and outreach programs for audiences of all ages.  As an industry expert, Joanne has delivered presentations throughout the country at national, regional, and state conferences. She serves as a resource for secondary and post-secondary professionals, providing guidance on financial aid regulations and trends in college enrollment and financing. Joanne's higher education career began in 2001, during which she spent several years working in financial aid at both public and private institutions, as well as in various roles at MEFA, ASA, and the Higher Education Assistance Group.   Joanne can be reached at education@pc529.com.  LINKS Can 529 Funds Be Used to Pay for Test Prep? Private College 529 Plan | What is a 529 Plan? Education Savings Vehicles: Know Your Options RELATED EPISODES 529 COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS THE ROLE OF TEST SCORES IN COLLEGE MERIT AID BUSTING MYTHS ABOUT HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE  

Host Jonathan Hughes talks to Patricia Roberts, Chief Operating Officer at Gift of College, about the importance of saving for the future, her personal experience saving for college for her son, college gifting, and the MEFA gift cards now available.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks to MEFA's Director of College Relations, Shawn Morrissey, about filling out the 2026-27 FAFSA. They discuss how much easier filing the form has become, the steps you need to take to file, and how to ask questions if you do get stuck.

Host Jonathan Hughes speaks with MEFA's Julie Shields-Rutyna about tips for filling out the 2026-27 FAFSA. They also answer a question from the MEFA Mailbag about remarried parents filing the FAFSA. Jonathan then talks to Managing Director at Fidelity Investments, Cory Latham, about the results of Fidelity and MEFA's recent College Savings & Student Debt Study.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks to Managing Director at Fidelity Investments, Cory Latham, about expanded uses for 529 and 529A plans, including MEFA's U.Fund and Attainable Savings Plans. They discuss the expanded uses of 529 funds for K-12 expenses and certain credentialing programs, as well as the changes to ABLE accounts, which include expanding eligibility requirements, making certain provisions permanent, and introducing new tax benefits.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks to three current and former U.Plan customers about their experiences of saving for college with MEFA's Prepaid Tuition Program. They discuss what made them save, why they choose the U.Plan specifically, and more.

Madison Rogers

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about college loans, while answering questions from you, the listener. They discuss federal loans, MEFA Loans, the process of applying, different repayment options, and much more.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA's high school intern from Cristo Rey Boston High School, Fatima Koumbassa, as well as her school supervisor, Jessina Baker. First Fatima shares her college admissions and financial aid journey, what she is interested in studying in college, and her duties and experience as a MEFA intern. Then Jonathan talks with Jessina about the internship program at Cristo Rey Boston High School and how Baker's life experiences led her to this job.

This week, join Justin McNamara, CFP® and his guest Julie Shields Rutyna of MEFA for a discussion about college financial aid. Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. He works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees. McNamara Financial is an independent, family-owned, fee-only investment management and financial planning firm, serving individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond for over 30 years. COME SEE WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH A FIDUCIARY. http://mcnamarafinancial.com/

Rafał Brzoska zapowiedział 400 propozycji zmiany przepisów do czerwca. Unimot powołał międzynarodową radę doradców strategicznych. Beko sprzedało łódzką fabrykę komponentów plastikowych Verpol firmie Mefa. KAS w 2023 r. przeprowadzono prawie 60 tys. zakupów kontrolowanych, które zakończyły się 14 tys. mandatów na ponad 20,4 mln zł.Zasubskrybuj prasówkę na ⁠⁠⁠www.businessupdate.pl⁠⁠⁠.Podcast powstał przy pomocy ElevenLabs.

In this episode you will hear:   (07:22) In The News Lisa and Mark share and discuss a powerful letter from a mom about how she almost fell into the “College Admission Trap”   (28:22) Question from a listener:  Mark and Hillary discuss the importance of a college being able to predict who will come   (43:44) Interview: Frequently Asked Questions about 529 Plans, Julie Shields-Rutyna and Jonathan Hughes from MEFA, Part 4 of 4 Preview of Part 4 ·         Julie talks about the research that Dr. William Elliot from the University of Michigan has done on the psychological benefits of 529 Plans for students and parents, even if the contribution is really ·         Jonathan discusses whether a 529 Plan can be used for Job training ·         Julie talks about the 529-A aka the 529-Able and how that is different from the traditional 529 plans ·         Julie mentions a range of qualified expenses that very few people know that the 529-A can be used for ·         I ask Julie whether this is very subjective or are the disabilities clearly defined ·         Jonathan talks about whether you can transfer money from a 529 Plan to the 529-Able plan ·         Jonathan talks about whether a student can use their 529 for International universities and he tells you how you can know if a specific International school is eligible for 529 usage ·         Jonathan talks about the growth of Child Savings Accounts in different states and he tells us what a Child Savings Account Is ·         Jonathan tells us what Oklahoma, Massachusetts and Maine are doing with CSA's ·         Jonathan and Julie talk about how you can reach them if you have additional 529 questions   (56:32) Recommended Resource-CLEP and Modern States       Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at Lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

In this episode you will hear:   (01:56) In The News A mom asks a very important question, Should you ever skip optional questions. Hillary and Mark start out discussing this question but they bounce around and cover a lot of topics including, about 15 minutes discussing “why it is so important for a college to know which students are coming   (28:44) Interview: Frequently Asked Questions about 529 Plans, Julie Shields-Rutyna and Jonathan Hughes from MEFA, Part 3 of 4     Preview of Part 3 ·         S Julie answers the question, what happens if a family saves money and then the student decides that they do not want to go to college, what options does the owner of the 529 plan have? ·         Jonathan and Julie answer the question, Is it true that parents should first take care of their own retirement before they fund a 529 plan? ·         Jonathan tells us where our listeners can learn about their 529 plan options. ·         Jonathan talks about the difference between direct sold vs advisor sold 529 plans ·         Julie tells us how 529 Plans are handled from a financial aid standpoint, and she talks about how this differs from a Coverdale or UTMA and UGMA. ·         Julie also talks about the recent changes in how grandparent-owned 529 plans are assessed ·         Jonathan talks about how you can roll over an UTMA or UGMA to a 529 Plan ·         Julie talks about the rate that the 529 plan is assessed in the asset calculation compared to other savings options ·         Jonathan tells us when a family should start investing in a 529 Plan ·         Julie talks about some of the differences between the 529 Plans and the UTMA, UGMA and Coverdale plans ·         Jonathan tells us whether a parent should still contribute to a 529 when their child is in college ·         Julie and Jonathan talk about whether there is an income cap that restricts high income families from contributing to a 529 Plan   (47:10) Question from a listener:  Lisa and Lynda answer a question from an anonymous listener, “after you hit submit, what else do you need to do”. Lisa and Lynda.”       Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at Lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

In this episode you will hear:   (01:56) Question from a listener:  A mom asks a very important question, How can I know if a college is genuinely caring about all kids but especially about an unorganized student? Lisa Rouff and Lynda Doepker answer this question.   (42:48) Interview: Frequently Asked Questions about 529 Plans, Julie Shields-Rutyna and Jonathan Hughes from MEFA, Part 2 of 4     Preview of Part 2 ·         Jonathan talks about how you can use gift cards, a gifting page an email link to set up payments ·         Julie talks about the tax benefits to a 529 plan ·         Julie talks about the state tax deductions and tax credits ·         Jonathan talks about how the new secure ACT 2.0 act makes 529's even better now, and he gives the history of how the 529 has gotten better every year by helping with K-12 tuition and even apprenticeships ·         Julie tells us what qualified expenses are ·         Julie talks about the things that a 529 does not cover ·         Julie talks about what happens if someone doesn't have a Social security number ·         Julie talks about whether someone can be the owner if they are not a relative ·         Jonathan talks about what the process is of getting the 529 money to the college ·         Julie answers the question, can a 529 be used for personal and miscellaneous expenses ·         Julie talks about what safeguards are in place to protect fraud   (01:03:00) Second Question from a listener Susan joins Mark to answer a Speakpipe question, “Is it ever a bad idea to submit a test score that is too high”       Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at Lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

In this episode you will hear:   (03:21) In The News Hilliary shares some observations from things that stood out while reading applications this year   (20:02) Question from a listener:  A mom asks a very important question, How can I know if a college is genuinely caring about all kids but especially about an unorganized student? Lisa Rouff and Lynda Doepker answer this question.   (37:11) Interview: Frequently Asked Questions about 529 Plans, Julie Shields-Rutyna and Jonathan Hughes from MEFA, Part 1 of 4     Preview of Part 1 ·         Friends, even if you have had a 529 plan for a decade, I am convinced you are going to learn some things that you didn't know about 529 Plans in my interview with Jonathan Hughes and Julie Shields-Rutyna ·         Jonathan and Julie share their backstory ·         Jonathan tells us who MEFA is ·         Jonathan tells us what a 529 Plan is ·         Julie tells us who the beneficiary and successors are and whether it is easy to transfer beneficiaries ·         Jonathan tells us how to open a 529 account, including what you will need, and he tells us about how long it takes to open an account ·         Julie tells us how you can contribute to a 529 ·         Julie tells us what your investment options and the resources that are available to help you with your investment options ·         Julie talks about whether others beside the owner can contribute.   (56:22) Second Question from a listener Hilliary Dickman joins Mark to answer a question about how colleges use the Future Plans”         Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at Lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna talk with MEFA's Director of College Relations and FAFSA expert, Shawn Morrissey. Shawn answers 21 questions that MEFA has heard from families about completing the FAFSA.

It's the 100th episode of the MEFA Podcast! Host Jonathan Hughes sits down with MEFA's Executive Director Tom Graf who discusses the podcast, MEFA's accomplishments, and where MEFA is headed. Jonathan is then joined by co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna to discuss the previous 99 episodes of the MEFA Podcast and how MEFA helps listeners plan, save, and pay for college and reach financial goals. You'll hear clips from past conversations with some of the podcast's favorite guests, and learn about some of MEFA's key programs, guidance, and insights.

Host Jonathan Hughes first talks with co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about the FSA ID. They then answer a question from the MEFA Mailbag. Finally, they speak with MEFA's Director of College Relations, Shawn Morrissey, on the 2025-26 FAFSA.

Host Jonathan Hughes has a conversation with Team Leader of the 529 Directing Group at Fidelity Investments, Anthony Durkan, about MEFA's partnership with Fidelity Investments and the results of the recent College Savings Indicator (CSI) study, including the ways that families are saving for college and parents' behaviors, attitudes, and expectations around saving for college.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA's Director of ABLE Outreach, Adam Hartwell, about ABLE accounts, tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Stephanie Wells, MEFA's Director of College Relations, about MEFA Loans, including how to apply, the different loans terms, and how families can determine the best option.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA's own Julie Shields-Rutyna to answer a MEFA Mailbag question, and MEFA's Lauren Danz joins to share details of upcoming scholarships.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA's own Julie Shields-Rutyna about how there's still time to apply to college for this upcoming fall semester.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA's intern, Jariel Ruiz, a senior at Cristo Rey High School in Boston.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA's intern, Jariel Ruiz, a senior at Cristo Rey High School in Boston.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA's Director of College Relations, Shawn Morrissey, about the new FAFSA, including updates and changes to the FAFSA, what students and families need to know about their FAFSA statuses, and what families can do now and in the coming months.

This week join Justin McNamara and his guest Julie Shields-Rutyna of MEFA for a discussion on College Decisions and Financial Aid. Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees. Julie Shields-Rutyna is the Director of College Planning, Education, and Training at MEFA. Julie joined MEFA in 2007 and in her role provides expertise related to planning, saving, and paying for college to families, colleges, and other organizations. Prior to joining MEFA, Julie worked for the College Board, Nellie Mae, and American Express, and was the Director of Financial Aid at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Julie has been involved with MASFAA in a variety of positions and committees since 1993. She holds degrees from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst and the Harvard Graduate School of Education in Cambridge. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamara Financial, be sure to visit: https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact McNamara Financial is an Independent, family-owned, fee-only investment management and financial planning firm, serving individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond for over 30 years. COME SEE WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH A FIDUCIARY. http://mcnamarafinancial.com/

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna first answer a MEFA Mailbag question. Later they talk to MEFA's own Lauren Danz, who shares scholarship tips and highlights some scholarships with April deadlines.

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna share highlights from MEFA's webinar that outlined six keys to finding a good college fit, which was presented by Dr. Timothy Poynton and Dr. Amanda Sterk.

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna talk with Director of College Relations at MEFA, Shawn Morrissey, about the new FAFSA form and the challenges and delays families have been experiencing.

Host Jonathan Hughes first talks to co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about an online panel she moderated in conjunction with MEFA's ongoing campaign The Time is Now. Then, they answer a question from the MEFA Mailbag, and finally, Jonathan talks with Adam Hartwell about Attainable, the ABLE Savings Plan.

Host Jonathan Hughes first talks to the Director of MEFA Pathway, Jennifer Bento-Pinyoun. Then, Jonathan and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna discuss MEFA's The Time is Now campaign. Finally, Jonathan has a discussion with the new Director of GEAR UP in Worcester, Steve Winston.

Episode #48. Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna first discuss MEFA's prepaid tuition program, the U.Plan. Then, they go to the MEFA Mailbag and answer a question about letters of recommendation. Finally, Jonathan and Julie talk to Jill Desjean of NASFAA and Philip Levine of Wellesley College about FAFSA Simplification, including the adjustments to the form, the changes in terminology, and what families can expect when the FAFSA is available in December. Timestamp (0:00)

In this episode you will hear:   ²  We got such great feedback from last Monday's episode on the 75 hardest colleges to get into, so Mark decided to share the next 35 hardest colleges to get into. These 35 are comprised of the 25 hardest private colleges to get into and the 10 hardest public colleges to get admitted to. ²  We conclude with the final part of the three-part interview with Jonathan Hughes and Julie Shields-Rutyna from MEFA about paying for college       Our favorite way for you to leave a question or any message for us is to put speakpipe.com/YCBK in your browser and take up to 90 seconds to leave a message. We recommend you share your first name and your state, but you can also be anonymous.   If you do not want to verbally leave a message for us by using speakpipe.com/YCBK you can send in your questions either on Twitter at @YCBKpodcast using the Messages tab  or via email at .   You can also send in questions for our interviews by using speakpipe.com/YCBK. Our interviews are confirmed for 2023 and 2024 with the following leaders at the following schools: Confirmed interviews not yet completed Bard-Mackie Siebens Rice University-Tamara Siler American University-Andrea Felder Pitzer College-Yvonne Berumen Chapman University-Marcela Meija-Martinez Connecticut College-Andy Strickler* Trinity College-Anthony Berry* College of the Atlantic-Heather Albert* Spelman College-Chelsea Holley* Scripps College-Victoria Romero* Saint Louis University-Daniel Wood-(Interview is about transfer admissions, Daniel is a transfer counselor) Colby College-Randi Arsenault* University of Georgia-David Graves* University of Minnesota-Keri Risic Cornell University-Jonathon Burdick Akil Bello of Akilbello.com Oberlin College-Manuel Carballo Carleton College-Art Rodriguez Swarthmore-Jim Bok Joy St. Johns-Harvard Duke-Christoph Guttentag Florida State-John Barnhill Southern Methodist University-Elena Hicks Johns Hopkins-Calvin Wise Cornell University-Shawn Felton Haverford College-Jess Lord UAspire-Brendan Williams Yale University-Moira Poe Bard College- Baylor University Butler University California Institute of Technology Colorado School of Mines Creighton University     To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our free quarterly admissions deep-dive, delivered directly to your email four times a year, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign up on the right side of the page under “the Listen to our podcast icons”   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All they ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session. Their counseling website is: https://schoolmatch4u.com/

In this episode you will hear:   ²  Mark shares the 75 colleges he has found are the hardest ones to get into for the last three years. Mark divides them into two groups: the 35 the public often knows are hard, and the final 40 schools often shock students and parents with their selectivity ²  We start a brand-new three-part interview with Jonathan Hughes and Julie Shields-Rutyna from MEFA to talk about paying for college       Our favorite way for you to leave a question or any message for us is to put speakpipe.com/YCBK in your browser and take up to 90 seconds to leave a message. We recommend you share your first name and your state, but you can also be anonymous.   If you do not want to verbally leave a message for us by using speakpipe.com/YCBK you can send in your questions either on Twitter at @YCBKpodcast using the Messages tab  or via email at .   You can also send in questions for our interviews by using speakpipe.com/YCBK. Our interviews are confirmed for 2023 and 2024 with the following leaders at the following schools: Confirmed interviews not yet completed Bard-Mackie Siebens Rice University-Tamara Siler American University-Andrea Felder Pitzer College-Yvonne Berumen Chapman University-Marcela Meija-Martinez Connecticut College-Andy Strickler* Trinity College-Anthony Berry* College of the Atlantic-Heather Albert* Spelman College-Chelsea Holley* Scripps College-Victoria Romero* Saint Louis University-Daniel Wood-(Interview is about transfer admissions, Daniel is a transfer counselor) Colby College-Randi Arsenault* University of Georgia-David Graves* University of Minnesota-Keri Risic Cornell University-Jonathon Burdick Akil Bello of Akilbello.com Oberlin College-Manuel Carballo Carleton College-Art Rodriguez Swarthmore-Jim Bok Joy St. Johns-Harvard Duke-Christoph Guttentag Florida State-John Barnhill Southern Methodist University-Elena Hicks Johns Hopkins-Calvin Wise Cornell University-Shawn Felton Haverford College-Jess Lord UAspire-Brendan Williams Yale University-Moira Poe Bard College- Baylor University Butler University California Institute of Technology Colorado School of Mines Creighton University     To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our free quarterly admissions deep-dive, delivered directly to your email four times a year, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign up on the right side of the page under “the Listen to our podcast icons”   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All they ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session. Their counseling website is: https://schoolmatch4u.com/

In this episode you will hear:   ²  Mark shares some things he learned from the college application season about the selectivity of colleges. ²  We start a brand new three-part interview with Jonathan Hughes and Julie Shields-Rutyna from MEFA to talk about paying for college       Our favorite way for you to leave a question or any message for us is to put speakpipe.com/YCBK in your browser and take up to 90 seconds to leave a message. We recommend you share your first name and your state, but you can also be anonymous.   If you do not want to verbally leave a message for us by using speakpipe.com/YCBK you can send in your questions either on Twitter at @YCBKpodcast using the Messages tab  or via email at .   You can also send in questions for our interviews by using speakpipe.com/YCBK. Our interviews are confirmed for 2023 and 2024 with the following leaders at the following schools: Confirmed interviews not yet completed Bard-Mackie Siebens Rice University-Tamara Siler American University-Andrea Felder Pitzer College-Yvonne Berumen Chapman University-Marcela Meija-Martinez Connecticut College-Andy Strickler* Trinity College-Anthony Berry* College of the Atlantic-Heather Albert* Spelman College-Chelsea Holley* Scripps College-Victoria Romero* Saint Louis University-Daniel Wood-(Interview is about transfer admissions, Daniel is a transfer counselor) Colby College-Randi Arsenault* University of Georgia-David Graves* University of Minnesota-Keri Risic Cornell University-Jonathon Burdick Akil Bello of Akilbello.com Oberlin College-Manuel Carballo Carleton College-Art Rodriguez Swarthmore-Jim Bok Joy St. Johns-Harvard Duke-Christoph Guttentag Florida State-John Barnhill Southern Methodist University-Elena Hicks Johns Hopkins-Calvin Wise Cornell University-Shawn Felton Haverford College-Jess Lord UAspire-Brendan Williams Yale University-Moira Poe Bard College- Baylor University Butler University California Institute of Technology Colorado School of Mines Creighton University     To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our free quarterly admissions deep-dive, delivered directly to your email four times a year, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign up on the right side of the page under “the Listen to our podcast icons”   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All they ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session. Their counseling website is: https://schoolmatch4u.com/

This week join Justin McNamara and his guest Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA for a discussion on Financial Award Letters and how they fit into your financial planning for college. Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees. Julie Shields-Rutyna is the Director of College Planning, Education, and Training at MEFA. Julie joined MEFA in 2007 and in her role provides expertise related to planning, saving, and paying for college to families, colleges, and other organizations. Prior to joining MEFA, Julie worked for the College Board, Nellie Mae, and American Express, and was the Director of Financial Aid at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Julie has been involved with MASFAA in a variety of positions and committees since 1993. She holds degrees from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst and the Harvard Graduate School of Education in Cambridge. To schedule a visit with the team at McNamara Financial, be sure to visit: https://mcnamarafinancial.com/contact McNamara Financial is an Independent, family-owned, fee-only investment management and financial planning firm, serving individuals and families on the South Shore and beyond for over 30 years. COME SEE WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH A FIDUCIARY. http://mcnamarafinancial.com/

The boys are back from Vegas and it's the last pod of the year: The craziest story the guys heard in 2022 (1:15) The guys shares their best and worst day of 2022 (4:47) MEFA: Make Everett Fun Again (16:25) Vegas Trip for Nathan's 40th recap (17:45) MEFAA - Make Everett Fun Again Again (32:20) Meme review & Best Comment Wins (36:32) Everett's Mailbag (46:30) Watch the WORST CHRISTMAS SPECIAL FOR FREE: (https://my.theosu.ca/programs/worst-christmas-special-stream) ------- Watch the Post Show For FREE here (https://my.theosu.ca/programs/theosu-memes-podcast?categoryId=125272&permalink=episode5postshow) CCC Cringiest Christian Content Marriage Boundaries & Accountability One Thing in Christianity, Theology, Church That Needs to Die in 2023 Sign up for Theos Network (https://my.theosu.ca/pages/theos-network) Offended about something we said or a topic we discussed? Feel free to air your grievances by emailing us at wahwahwah@theosu.ca. Want unlimited seminary level teaching in plain English? Subscribe to Theos University (https://www.theosu.ca/) ------- Follow on Twitter: TheosU Memes: (https://twitter.com/theosu_memesTheosU) TheosU: (https://twitter.com/theosu_) Nathan: https://twitter.com/NathanFinochio Follow on Instagram: TheosU Memes (https://www.instagram.com/theosu_memes/) Theos University (https://www.instagram.com/theosuniver...) Nathan Finochio (https://www.instagram.com/nathanfinochio) Chris Palmer (https://www.instagram.com/chrispalmer) Bryan Vos (https://www.instagram.com/bryanthefox) Everett Wood (https://www.instagram.com/everettjame...) Presented by Vast Media​

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. In honor of the holiday season, and the stress and pressure that often accompanies this time of year, Emily and Jamie discuss what it means to “let it go”. Let the things that do not matter to you GO! If it matters to you, then you find a way…. if not, let it go. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season! Discussed in this episode: -Picking your battles -Outsourcing -Christmas cards -School outfits -What matters to you -What does not matter to you -Things you try to control -Stress -Approaching the holidays -Parenting Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps. The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. This week Emily is joined by wellness coach, mom, certified Fair Play facilitator, and yoga instructor, Julia Ludwig. The Fair Play Method is a communication system that helps to rebalance the invisible labor within the home with the goals of reducing the chaos of daily life, strengthening one's partnership with their spouse, and creating space for individual pursuits. Discussed in this episode: - Fair Play in marriage - Investing in your family - Investing in your marriage - Household responsibilities - Helping moms - Connection - Avoiding resentment - Correcting resentment - Bonding with family - Supporting your family - Gender roles - Division of labor - Time sensitive matters - Mental load - Daily tasks - CPE - Conception, planning, execution - Letting go - Tools for wellness - Equity - Couple coaching - Maternal gatekeeping - Fair Play facilitator - Household labor - Motherhood - SAHM - equitable - NOT equal Resources mentioned in this episode: FairPlaylife.com Documentary: FairPlay Instagram: @FairPlaylife Julia's website: https://www.julialudwigwellness.com/ Instagram:@julia_ludwig_ Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. After many questions regarding sibling prep and baby # 2 (and so on...), Jamie and Emily offer their wisdom on bringing home a new baby and how to best prepare your family. Discussed in this episode: -Prepping for a sibling -2 under 2 -Older sibling prep during pregnancy -Imaginary play -Additional explanation for younger kids -Play area for toddler -Play area for baby -Jobs for older sibling -Maintaining schedules & routine -Consistency -Communication -Implementing change before baby -Uninterrupted play -One on one time -Challenging behavior -Regressions -Childcare -Postpartum support For more, follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. With return to school and winter quickly approaching… 'tis this season of illness. Jamie and Emily share their lessons learned & advice for cold and flu season, as well as planning for staying home from school/ work. Discussed in this episode: -Sick season -Childcare -RSV -Flu -HFM -Hand foot and mouth disease -Staying home from work -Staying home from school -Stay home -Liquid Medication -Children medication -Chewable medication -Newborns -Visitors -Sick toddlers -Asking for help -Sick visits Follow us for more @nurturebynaps

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. There are two types of parents in this world— the parents that prepare for daylight savings….and the parents that don't. You can guess where Jamie and Emily stand on this topic. In honor of our LAST “fall back”, the ladies of NAPS offer a few different approaches to adjusting to daylight savings and best preparing your family for the change. Discussed in this episode: -Daylight savings -Adjusting sleep schedules -Younger kids -Older kids -Toddler sleep -Back to school schedules -Naps -Leading up to daylight savings -Early wake ups -Slow transitions -Adjustment period For more on daylight savings follow us on @Nurturebynaps

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. In respect to National Bullying Prevention Month, this week's podcast's theme is Mom on Mom Bullying. Jamie and Emily discuss the challenges, comparisons, and complexities of being a parents and offer tactics for improving how we talk to ourselves and offer compassion to others. Mentioned in this episode: -Mom bullying -Mom shame -Judgment -Inclusion -Self blame -Rejection -Social media -Exclusion -Gossip -Internet bullying -Positive feedback -Positive reinforcement -Supporting others -Women supporting women -Nurturing oneself -Challenging behaviors -Bullying prevention For more, follow us on IG @nurturebyNAPS

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund Emily is joined by NAPS parent, Alesandra, to recount her experience with seeking lactation support. Alesandra and Emily emphasize that there does not need to be an apparent “problem” to utilize lactation professionals. Discussed in this episode: -Open and honest conversation with healthcare providers -Patient advocacy -Breastfeeding & bottle feeding -Combination feeding -Low milk supply -Feeding options -Evidence based care -Hospital birth -Postpartum recovery -Conflicting information -Preventative care -Lactation support & reassurance -CLC/ IBCLC Lactation intake form: We provide both in person (MA) and virtual support (nationally). https://www.nurturebynaps.com/lactation-consult Be sure to follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund As a follow up to our last episode discussing circumcisions, Jamie is back with urologist, Dr. Peter L. Steinberg to chat all things vasectomy. Discussed on this episode: -Vasectomy procedure -Vasectomy recovery -Vasectomy Success -Vasectomy Risks -Vasectomy Benefits -Urology -Birth control -Sterilization -Postpartum Sex -Vasectomy Surgery Prep -FAQ -Tubal ligation -Finding a vasectomy provider -Sterilization For more information on Vasectomies check out the AUA Vasectomy Guidelines. Be sure to follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund This week, Jamie is joined by Dr. Peter L. Steinberg, NAPS parent and Urologist to discuss all things circumcision. Discussed in this episode: -Circumcision care -Circumcision risk -Circumcisions vs no circumcision -Penile infections -Circumcision recovery -Newborn circumcisions -Adult circumcisions -Pain -Pain management -Circumcision methods -Circumcision FAQ
-Complications after surgery Resources from medical resources recommended by Dr. Steinberg: AUA (Urology) -- https://www.auanet.org//about-us/policy-and-position-statements/circumcision AAP (Pediatrics) -- https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/130/3/585/30235/Circumcision-Policy-Statement CDC position statement -- focused largely on STI and UTI prevention -- https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/58456 AAFP (Family physicians) -- https://www.aafp.org/about/policies/all/neonatal-circumcision.html Follow us on IG for more @nurturebyNAPS.

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund As back to school is around the corner and many are returning to work— Jamie and Emily join forces to discuss childcare options… and each of their pros/cons. Discussed in this episode: -Daycare -Nanny -Nanny share -Au pairs -Family -Private daycare -Finding childcare -Illness -Cost -Socialization Follow us on IG for more @nurturebyNAPS.

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. It is that time of year again— back to school! As you are your family gear up for back to school, Jamie and Emily offer advice about these transitions and tell a few stories along the way. Discussed in this episode: Transitions School drop off Morning routine Back to school School drop off Routine Preparation Consistency Summer routine Follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child's future. This week, Emily discusses the evolution (over the last 7 years) of sleep/sleep training for her oldest daughter Grace. Grace recently celebrated her 7th birthday and turned the corner in the sleep department. Emily brings light to her trials and tribulations of all things sleep. Discussed in this episode: -Naps -Daytime naps -wake windows -sleep training -the chair method -Bringing home baby -Challenging toddler behaviors -Sleep studies Follow us on IG for a trip down memory lane regarding all things Grace & sleep @nurturebyNAPS.