How to Get Your Athlete to College Debt Free (and Where to Start) with Shellee Howard, College Ready

Stressed thinking about scholarships, applications, and college costs? You’re not alone. Shellee Howard shares simple, practical advice that actually makes this process feel doable.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• How to set your athlete up for success academically and financially.
• Practical strategies for aiming for a debt-free education.
• Tips for athletes at every stage, from just starting high school to preparing for college.
• Real-life examples showing how small steps now can pay off big later.

Get ready to feel more confident and less stressed about the whole college journey!

Come hang out with Shellee:

• Instagram: @collegereadyplan
• Learn more & work with her: https://collegereadyplan.com/
• Guest interview inquiries: [e-mail]

Episode Highlights:

[00:01:04] About Shellee Howard and College Ready. Shellee has spent nearly two decades helping families navigate the college admission process, and she’s walked the walk – her own four kids all went to college debt free!

[00:08:07] Biggest Mistake: Lacking a Plan. One of the biggest issues families face is putting all their hopes on an athletic scholarship without having backup plans in place for college funding.

[00:10:19] Viewing College as a Business. The availability of athletic scholarships depends a lot on whether the sport brings in money for the university, so it’s smart to think about academics and other scholarship options too.

[00:14:33] Finding the Right Academic and Athletic Fit. It’s not just about grades and scores—showing passion, leadership, and finding the right fit academically and socially can really open scholarship doors.

[00:18:56] Helping Athletes Determine College Fit. Rather than picking a school because it’s sunny or close to the beach, it’s important for students to start exploring their interests and values early to find a good college fit.

[00:23:59] College Prep Timeline: Start in Middle School. Starting as early as 7th or 8th grade gives students time to build their resume through community service, leadership, and other activities that will help them stand out.

[00:29:11] The “Brag Binder” Strategy. Keeping a binder or digital folder of all achievements and awards helps kids see their strengths and makes application prep easier down the line.

[00:32:05] Addressing Uncertainty About Majors and Careers. A lot of students don’t know what they want to study. Focusing on core values and strengths can help guide that decision without pressure.

[00:37:00] The Value of Neutral Mentors. Sometimes teens need a safe, judgment-free space to open up about their goals, and having a neutral coach or mentor can make all the difference.

[00:38:11] Additional Resources. There are great resources – books, websites, and personal coaching – that families can tap into for support with college prep and making it debt free.

Next Steps:

• Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
• Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

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