Episodios

  • 3 Common Mistakes Families Make That Derail Their Young Person's Forward Momentum + 7 Scholarships
    Apr 13 2026

    For more than a decade, Lisa Marker-Robbins has helped over 4,000 teens and young adults gain the insight, experiences, and confidence they need to successfully embark on their graduation career path. But along the way, she saw a troubling pattern: Too many young people were unsure of their direction—and it showed. They were overwhelmed by choices, confused about college majors, or pursuing paths that didn’t truly fit. Many were drifting into the future aimless, others graduating underemployed, or stalling out altogether.

    Lisa knew there had to be a better way…

    In our conversation, we discussed:

    • The importance of defining the correct “finish line” for your student

    • Why your student’s school is likely measuring the wrong “finish line”

    • Outsourcing your students’ development in the wrong way

    • Why “we’ll figure it out later” closes doors, adds stress, and costs more

    • How to guide your student without putting pressure on them

    • And much more…

    If you want to start your student on the road to clarity, access Lisa’s new FREE training, the Career Identification Compass, by going to Flourishcoachingco.com/gps

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    FREE Webiar: The Latest on College Admissions: Changes to the ACT & SAT, Scholarships, and More

    Brian Eufinger from Edison Prep and Dave Peterson from Scholarship GPS will provide valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate the increasingly competitive landscape of higher education! The presentation is meticulously infused with real data from the front lines of college admissions.

    While the goal of the presentation is to be informative, we take it as a point of pride that “fun” or “irreverent” are often mentioned as well when parents refer our info sessions to fellow parents!

    Feel free to invite others whom you feel may benefit from this valuable information on the college admissions process!

    Info Session Goals:

    -Understand how college admissions has changed in the post-covid landscape

    -Understand how the transcript landscape has starkly shifted with grade inflation, AP/IB classes, and dual enrollment

    -Familiarize yourself with the structure of the SAT/ACT/PSAT/Pre-ACT and how the scores impact college admissions and merit aid

    -Help your student achieve his/her fullest potential on the PSAT, SAT, and/or ACT

    -Learn about the college application process timeline and how to plan ahead to avoid common pitfalls.

    -Learn how GPA, course rigor, and test scores can be used to maximize financial aid and scholarships!

    Click here to register. All registrants will be given access to the webinar recording.

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    Featured Scholarships:

    • $3000 Economic Impact of Workplace Discrimination Scholarship
    • $1000 "The Math Gift" Scholarship for High School Students
    • $1000 Law Offices of Mark Sherman Juvenile Justice Scholarship
    • $2500 Rover Scholarship
    • $2000 RealtyHop Scholarship
    • $2000 Smarter College Better Financial Future Scholarship
    • Appily $1000 Easy Money Scholarship
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    37 m
  • Earn More Than a Diploma: How Students Can Find Direction, Purpose, and a Future That Excites Them! + 7 Scholarships!
    Apr 6 2026
    In the last 45 days, I have had multiple Scholarship GPS students earn full-tuition and other large scholarships. But the road to those students' scholarship success started many months before. These students learned what scholarships are looking for in applicants. They practiced their scholarship skills by applying for several scholarships. They made scholarships a priority and learned how to improve their applications entry by entry. And, many of those students started by participating in last year's Scholarship Summer Camp. Now, I know summer seems like a long way off - but can you it’s already April? Summer will be here before you know it! Summer is the perfect time for students to learn the scholarship process. With no school and no homework, students have the time and mental space to devote a few minutes per day to learn the secrets to scholarship success. Because I know you want to do everything you can to set your student up for scholarship success, I'm opening early registration to the Scholarship Summer Camp for my podcast listeners. By participating in the Scholarship Summer Camp, your student will learn the skills required for scholarship success by applying for real scholarships, including a $35,000 scholarship capstone project! Every Monday through Thursday, a new, pre-recorded lesson will be released. These can be watched on-demand, based on the student's schedule. On Thursday evenings, we will be live (but recorded for future viewing), discussing the week's lessons and taking Q&A. Here's the agenda: Week 1: The Tools For Scholarship Success Week 2: Your Personal Narrative Week 3: Finding The Right Scholarships For You Week 4: Why Do You Deserve To Win This Scholarship? (Apply for a Real Scholarship This Week!) Week 5: Topical Scholarships (Apply for Another Real Scholarship This Week!) Week 6: $35,000 Capstone Scholarship Project! This year, I'm offering two different sessions. Choose the one that works best with your schedule. Session A starts June 1st. Session B starts July 27th. Plus, I'm offering a 50% discount if you register this month! The Scholarship Summer Camp is my most popular program. Space is limited, so don't delay! Use discount code APRIL at checkout to save 50% off the regular price. Click here to learn more and to sign up today. ---------- Featured Scholarships: College Here I Come for High School SeniorsBroad Horizons Scholarship for High School Juniors“Creativity Takes Courage” Scholarship for Art StudentsSportsmanship Scholarship Award$10,000 ABMF Past is Prologue Essay Contest$2500 CollegeXpress April Scholarship Sweepstakes$5000 Christian College Scholarship ---------- Janine Deems is the Founder and CEO of Smarter by 1 Degree, an innovative education company reshaping the way teens learn in high school. Rethinking education allows students to have time for career exploration, volunteering, interning, trade school, or a bachelor's degree during high school. A dynamic speaker and visionary leader, Janine travels the country teaching about education reimagined. A research-backed, mastery-based instructional model that leverages technology, innovation, strategy, and purposeful learning to prepare students for success after graduation. With more than a decade of experience as an Education Strategist, 25 years of experience as an Educator, and the privilege of helping thousands of students meet their educational goals. Her mission is rooted in a simple belief: Every student deserves more than a diploma. They deserve direction, purpose, and a future they are excited about! In our conversation, we discussed: What it means to earn more than a diplomaThe importance of learning and experiences outside of the classroomHow experience outside the classroom builds confidenceWhy starting early brings options and calmHow extracurriculars can lead to more scholarshipsAnd much more… To connect with Janine, visit smarterby1degree.com. ---------- FREE Webiar: The Latest on College Admissions: Changes to the ACT & SAT, Scholarships, and More Brian Eufinger from Edison Prep and Dave Peterson from Scholarship GPS will provide valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate the increasingly competitive landscape of higher education! The presentation is meticulously infused with real data from the front lines of college admissions. While the goal of the presentation is to be informative, we take it as a point of pride that “fun” or “irreverent” are often mentioned as well when parents refer our info sessions to fellow parents! Feel free to invite others whom you feel may benefit from this valuable information on the college admissions process! Info Session Goals: -Understand how college admissions has changed in the post-covid landscape -Understand how the transcript landscape has starkly shifted with grade inflation, AP/IB classes, and dual enrollment -Familiarize yourself with the structure of the SAT/ACT/PSAT/Pre-ACT and how the scores impact college ...
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    51 m
  • The #1 portfolio for connecting students with colleges, employers, internships, and scholarships! + 9 Scholarships
    Mar 30 2026

    Students who graduate college debt-free don't rely on just one source of scholarships or financial aid. They layer their scholarship sources, one on top of the other.

    Shellee helped her son receive multiple full scholarships.

    I helped my son earn 23 outside scholarships, allowing us to pay only $1500 for his college degree - tuition, room, board, books, and fees included.

    Today, Shellee and her team help middle and high school students (and their parents) by preparing them for the college admissions process. They work together to create a Stand Out Strategy while striving for the best Academic, Social, Athletic, and Financial fit.

    I work with students and families in high school and college, helping them identify, apply for, and secure both institutional and outside scholarships.

    You can watch a recording of the webinar that Shelle and I just held, in which we each laid out our framework for graduating from college debt-free. To access the recording for free, go to https://www.scholarshipgps.com/layer

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    Did you know you can appeal your financial aid award?

    Join Juno’s expert-led webinar to learn how to increase financial aid from your university. We’ll cover the reasons why you can appeal, what documents you may need to collect, and how to approach the conversation with your financial aid office. A live Q&A will follow the presentation, so bring your questions! Click here to register.

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    I recently spoke with Reetu Gupta of Cirkled In, the #1 portfolio for connecting students with colleges, employers, internships, and scholarships!

    Cirkled In allows students to showcase their unique story beyond just test scores and grades! They can highlight their talents, strengths, and passions to connect with top colleges, internships, job opportunities, and scholarships that are the perfect fit for them.

    In our conversation, we discussed:

    • Why students need an online portfolio

    • How Cirkled In allows students to showcase themselves for colleges, internships, employers, and scholarships

    • How Cirkled In vets and updates their scholarship database

    • And much more…

    All students in the Scholarship Navigator programs get a FREE premium Cirkled In profile. Learn more about the other benefits by clicking the program for your student’s grade-level:

    • Class of 2027

    • Class of 2028

    • Class of 2029

    • Class of 2030

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    Featured Scholarships:

    • $1000 Blue Collar to Big Dreams Scholarship
    • $3000 "Unboxing Your Life" Video Scholarship
    • $2000 Eye on the Future Teen Video Contest
    • $10,000 Create Real Impact Contest
    • $1500 School Spirit Scholarship
    • $5000 Christian College No-Essay Scholarship
    • $2,000 Protestant Faith-Based College Scholarship
    • $2,000 Catholic College Scholarship Drawing
    • $50,000 ScholarshipOwl No-Essay Scholarship

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    33 m
  • Does Luck Have Anything To Do With Scholarship Success?
    Mar 23 2026
    Free Scholarship Resources:
    • Click here to request my free LIST OF RECOMMENDED SCHOLARSHIP WEBSITES to find the best scholarships based on your student’s unique profile.

    • Click here to request my free SCHOLARSHIP TRACKING TOOL. It’s the same tool I used when coaching my son to 23 scholarship wins.

    Layer Your Scholarship & Financial Aid:

    Students who graduate college debt-free don’t rely on just one source of scholarships or financial aid. They layer their scholarship sources, one on top of the other. Shellee helped her son receive multiple full scholarships. Dave helped his son earn 23 outside scholarships, allowing them to pay only $1500 for his college degree - tuition, room, board, books, and fees included. Today, Shellee and her team help middle and high school students (and their parents) by preparing them for the college admissions process. They work together to create a Stand Out Strategy while striving for the best Academic, Social, Athletic, and Financial fit. Dave works with students and families in high school and college, helping them identify, apply for, and secure both institutional and outside scholarships. Join Shellee Howard, Founder and CEO of College Ready, and Dave “The Scholarship Coach” Peterson for this informative webinar to set yourself on the path to a debt-free college degree. Click here to register for this free, informative session. (All registrants will get access to the recording.)

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    Free Training: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS:

    How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion.

    In This Free Session You’ll Discover:

    • The two common mistakes even supportive parents make that quietly stall momentum and increase dependence.

    • How to know with confidence if their next step — college major, career path, or other training — actually fits who they are.

    • What you can do now to help support your young person avoid floundering or falling behind.

    To access this free training, click here.

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    CIRKLED IN: The #1 Portfolio for Connecting Students With Colleges and Employers! Your Path to College, Internships, and Jobs Starts Now

    Showcase your unique story beyond just test scores and grades! Highlight your talents, strengths, and passions to connect with top colleges, internships, and job opportunities that are the perfect fit for you.

    Build your future by sharing your authentic journey—get discovered by colleges and employers today!

    It’s easy to get started. Click here! to create a free account.

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    Featured Scholarships:

    • $2500 Unigo Superpower Scholarship
    • $1000 KD Trial Lawyers Defining Moments Scholarship
    • $2500 Citizens Building the Workforce of the Future Scholarship
    • $5000 Frame My Future Scholarship
    • $2500 CirkledIn “No Sweat” Scholarship

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    A Custom Diploma Frame Makes The Perfect Graduation Gift I like Church Hill Classics frames so much that I bought one for my son’s college diploma, and it turned out beautifully!

    Whether it’s a high school or college diploma, a varsity letter, military display, professional credentials, or another custom frame, check out Church Hill Classics today!

    Use code DAVE20 to save 20%!

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    13 m
  • Set Your Student Up to Be College Ready + 5 Scholarships
    Mar 16 2026

    I recently spoke with Shellee Howard of College Ready.

    After helping her son get into Harvard and after he received multiple full scholarships, Shelle went back to school to get her College Consulting degree. She worked as an independent College Consultant for two years before founding College Ready.

    Shelle has been featured on FOX, CBS, and NBC. In addition, College Ready has been the topic of many press releases in several newspapers and magazines for the large merit scholarships their students continue to receive.

    The College Ready team helps middle and high school students (and their parents) by preparing them for the college admissions process. They work together to create a Stand Out Strategy while striving for the best Academic, Social, Athletic, and Financial fit.

    In our conversation, we discussed:

    • The tactics and plans that parents can use to set up their student for a debt-free college degree, and the best timing for these plans.

    • The need for students to pick the right colleges to apply to.

    • The $100,000 cost of not picking the right college.

    • How the activities students do today help with scholarships, college admissions, and even “adulting.”

    • The scholarship strategy that can unlock college options.

    • The hidden costs of college.

    • The scholarship myths that will cost you money if you believe them.

    To connect with Shellee, go to collegereadyplan.com or to book a free 30-minute consultation with her, go to collegereadyplan.info

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    This week's featured scholarships:

    • $1000 “Making Waves” Scholarship for Women
    • $5000 Ferguson Court Scholarship
    • $1000 Lessons in Resilience Scholarship
    • $2000 Smarter College A Better Financial Future Scholarship
    • $1000 Appily Easy Money Scholarship
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    39 m
  • Launch Your Student Into College Success + 6 Scholarships
    Mar 9 2026
    I recently spoke with Jennifer Gershberg, a campus and keynote speaker and former University of Maryland professor. Through her campus programs, keynotes, trainings, and online courses, she helps prospective and current college students build confidence and competence by teaching them the fundamental skills they need for academic and professional success. While on the faculty at the University of Maryland, Jennifer won numerous teaching awards, including the highly coveted Allen J. Krowe Award for Teaching Excellence. She has been a featured guest on multiple podcasts, including Real Housewives of New Jersey Margaret Josephs’ “Caviar Dreams, Tuna Fish Budget.” Jennifer attended Cornell University and the George Washington University Law School. ​Jennifer’s speaking career is a product of her deep concern for and commitment to student wellbeing. As a professor, she observed a continuous decline in student competencies and mental health following the pandemic and felt compelled to broaden her impact, leading her to this work. Jennifer is known for her natural ease and connection with students, relatability, genuine investment in student success, and being “nurturing but tough -- exactly what students need.” (source: a student) In our conversation, we discussed: How students build confidence and reduce anxiety Some of the academic challenges she noticed college students commonly face Advice for students who need to ask for letters of recommendation Advice for parents to help their children launch into college successfully To connect with Jennifer, go to jgtalks.org. Good News & Bad News The bad news: Let’s be honest—the transition to college comes with challenges. As March arrives, many students and parents are feeling the pinch of college costs. The merit aid offered by colleges is often less than hoped for, and concerns about students thriving without the guardrails of high school are increasing. Now, here’s the good news: I’ve partnered with former college professor Jennifer Gershberg to help you turn these hurdles into opportunities for success. Jennifer is passionate about equipping students with essential skills—from time management to building strong relationships with professors—that set them up for college and beyond. Her “Welcome to College! Bootcamp for Incoming Students” is specifically designed to prepare incoming students for the demands of college life, making the transition smoother and more confident. For just $159—a tiny investment compared to the staggering costs of college—this course offers immense value. And here’s the best part: when you enroll through this link only, you’ll receive the Scholarship GPS course for free! (That’s a $197 value!) This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of securing scholarships—from finding scholarships, prioritizing the right ones, to crafting standout essays. Don’t let the financial stress or fear of the unknown hold you back. Take advantage of this limited-time offer to give your student the tools they need for success. Once you purchase, I’ll send you instructions to access your free Scholarship GPS course. Act now—your student’s brighter college journey starts today! ---------- THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion. In This Free Session You'll Discover: The two common mistakes even supportive parents make that quietly stall momentum and increase dependence.How to know with confidence if their next step — college major, career path, or other training — actually fits who they are.What you can do now to help support your young person avoid floundering or falling behind. To access this free training, click the link click here: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/a/2148233090/PLHdxFCx ---------- A Custom Diploma Frame Makes The Perfect Graduation Gift I like Church Hill Classics frames so much that I bought one for my son’s college diploma, and it turned out beautifully! Whether it’s a high school or college diploma, a varsity letter, military display, professional credentials, or another custom frame, check out Church Hill Classics today! Use code Dave20 for $20 off orders of $100+ Click here to get started: diplomaframe.com/DaveFrames ---------- Featured Scholarships: $3500 Independent Review Student Essay Contest$1000 “Creativity Takes Courage” Scholarship for Art Students$10,000 Culver's Scholarship$20,000 Kailee Mills Foundation ScholarshipIke Foundation Scholarship$3000 March Money Madness Scholarship!$2000 Smarter College Scholarship Subscribe to the free "Your Daily Scholarship" Newsletter here: https://nodebtcollege.substack.com/
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    40 m
  • Calm, Stress-Free College Admissions + 5 Featured Scholarships
    Mar 2 2026
    Lisa Rouff, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and independent educational consultant with more than thirty years of experience helping teens and families navigate major life transitions with clarity and confidence. She co-founded The College Admissions Collective, where she guides students—especially those with ADHD, anxiety, learning differences, and perfectionism—through a calmer, more structured approach to college planning. Lynda Doepker is an independent educational consultant who helps students chart confident, authentic paths to college, whether they’re applying to selective universities, regional options, or navigating the process as first-generation applicants. A first-gen college graduate herself, she brings a commitment to accessibility and years of experience supporting high-achieving, under-resourced, and rural students. In our conversation, Lisa, Lynda, and I discussed: What the “prestige trap” is and how it affects families financially and emotionally How not chasing prestige improves college financial options Process goals and how those apply specifically to paying for college Why calm, informed planning is actually a college financial strategy What a “successful” admissions process looks like when affordability is a priority And much more… To connect with Lisa and Lynda, visit their website: thecollegeadmissionscollective.com/ Get lifetime access to the Scholarship GPS Course at a special discounted rate and get the book, “The Calm College Method,” for free! The Scholarship GPS course features concise video lessons designed to seamlessly fit into your busy schedule, allowing you to learn at your own pace. Throughout the course, you’ll acquire essential scholarship skills, including: How to identify the best scholarships for your student Best practices for scholarship applications, essays, and projects The importance of crafting your student’s Personal Narrative -- a key element in winning scholarships Written by Dr. Lisa Rouff and Lynda Doepker of The College Admissions Collective, “The Calm College Method” helps parents and students replace anxiety with confidence, chaos with clarity, and pressure with purpose. With this special offer, enjoy a 50% discount on lifetime access to the Scholarship GPS Course, and get “The Calm College Method” for free! This special offer is only available at this link: www.scholarshipgps.com/calm ---------- THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion. In This Free Session You'll Discover: The two common mistakes even supportive parents make that quietly stall momentum and increase dependence.How to know with confidence if their next step — college major, career path, or other training — actually fits who they are.What you can do now to help support your young person avoid floundering or falling behind. To access this free training, click the link click here: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/a/2148233090/PLHdxFCx ---------- A Custom Diploma Frame Makes The Perfect Graduation Gift I like Church Hill Classics frames so much that I bought one for my son’s college diploma, and it turned out beautifully! Whether it’s a high school or college diploma, a varsity letter, military display, professional credentials, or another custom frame, check out Church Hill Classics today! Use code Dave20 for $20 off orders of $100+ Click here to get started: diplomaframe.com/DaveFrames ---------- Featured Scholarships: Broad Horizons Scholarship for High School JuniorsCollege Here I Come Scholarship for High School SeniorsStossel in the Classroom Essay & Video Contests with a $28,000 Prize Pool$2026 No Essay Scholarship $10,000 Scholarships360 No Essay Scholarship Subscribe to the free "Your Daily Scholarship" Newsletter here: https://nodebtcollege.substack.com/
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    Aún no se conoce
  • What High School Juniors Can Do Immediately for College Prep + 6 Scholarships
    Feb 23 2026
    Two College Prep Programs - One Low Price Get access to the Scholarship GPS Course and Summit Academic Support's College Essay Starter Kit for one low price! College Essay Starter Kit Designed by veteran English teachers and college essay coaches, this self-paced course helps high school students confidently begin the college essay process. In just six modules of expert video instruction, students will learn how to brainstorm and structure a compelling, authentic personal statement. By the end, they’ll have a comprehensive brainstorming package for both the personal statement (or UC PIQs), supplemental essays, and scholarship essays—plus the option to upgrade to 1:1 support. Here’s what’s included: ✓ 6 teacher-led video modules (40+ minutes of instruction) ✓ A downloadable workbook & 10 guided brainstorming activities ✓ Sample essay breakdowns that show what works - and why ✓ Lifetime access, so you can use it when you’re ready Scholarship GPS The Scholarship GPS self-paced video course is for both students and parents. Throughout the course, you’ll acquire essential scholarship skills, including: ✓ How to find scholarships that match the student’s profile ✓ Best practices for scholarship applications and essays ✓How to build a student’s Personal Narrative for scholarship success ✓Other tactics and strategies to save on college costs Additionally, you will have access to helpful tools such as: ✓ A scholarship tracking tool ✓ A scholarship checklist template ✓Examples of scholarship-winning essays ✓ Lifetime access, so you can use it when you’re ready Purchased separately, these programs normally cost $296. With this special offer, get lifetime access to both programs for just $97! Click here to get started and begin your student’s college prep journey today! https://www.scholarshipgps.com/college-essay-starter-kit-scholarship-gps-bogo ---------- THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion. In This Free Session You'll Discover: The two common mistakes even supportive parents make that quietly stall momentum and increase dependence.How to know with confidence if their next step — college major, career path, or other training — actually fits who they are.What you can do now to help support your young person avoid floundering or falling behind. To access this free training, click the link click here: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/a/2148233090/PLHdxFCx ---------- A Custom Diploma Frame Makes The Perfect Graduation Gift I like Church Hill Classics frames so much that I bought one for my son’s college diploma, and it turned out beautifully! Whether it’s a high school or college diploma, a varsity letter, military display, professional credentials, or another custom frame, check out Church Hill Classics today! Use code Dave20 for $20 off orders of $100+ Click here to get started: diplomaframe.com/DaveFrames ---------- Featured Scholarships: Libbey Law Offices $1000 Injured Individual Scholarship$5000 Frame My Future ScholarshipAtlanta Divorce Law Group $1000 Divorce Stigma Scholarship$1000 "Scholar Dollars" Scholarship for Black Students$10,000 Engebretson Foundation National Scholarship$10,000 Scholarships360 No Essay Scholarship $2000 Smarter College Scholarship Subscribe to the free "Your Daily Scholarship" Newsletter here: https://nodebtcollege.substack.com/ ---------- Jacklyn Angell and Maggie Finn met while teaching high school in New Hampshire and bonded over their love of library books and side hustles. Their connection turned into a collaboration — and eventually, Summit Academic Support — where they combine their teaching experience and creative energy to guide students through the college application process. In our conversation, we discussed: How their teacher-first mindset shapes the way they deliver college counseling differently from traditional consultants. The surprising things that parents and students actually need in the college admissions process. Lessons from the most recent admissions cycle that reinforce how families should approach the college process. Things current juniors should be doing right now. To connect with Maggie and Jacklyn, go to https://www.summitacademicsupport.com/
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    56 m