As a college counselor and Certified College Funding Specialist (CCFS®), my goal is to help students find the best colleges for their unique needs, aspirations and career goals and while helping families fund that education by working with them to understand the various strategies to maximize financial aid and reduce out of pocket costs.

I help families realize significant cost savings in the following ways:

1. Understanding the Process: I have extensive knowledge of the financial aid process and the various types of financial aid available and can help parents determine which options are best for their child's specific situation, including how to get aid even if you think your family “won’t qualify”.

2. Personalized financial planning: I’ll work with you to develop a plan that takes into account your unique financial situation and goals. Understanding your family’s financial snapshot before applying to colleges allows you to implement strategies to lower your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which can significantly reduce out of pocket costs.

3. FAFSA and CSS Profile Assistance: A brand new FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is coming. Understanding the changes and how to position yourself advantageously can save you serious money.

4. Negotiation skills: I understand the nuances of appealing financial aid award letters and help parents make a compelling case when negotiating with colleges for better packages.

5. Prioritizing Long-term savings: Putting together a plan that leverages all available financial aid opportunities can reduce the amount of money you need to borrow and minimize the financial burden on your family. Remember – funding a college education and retirement planning are more intertwined than ever. Strategic planning and due diligence are the keys to being able to successfully do both.

Paying for college will likely be one of the biggest, if not the biggest, financial decision your family will ever make, and overpaying for college can jeopardize the path to a secure financial future.  Working with a college funding specialist as you navigate the complexities of the college financial aid process can make you aware of crucial information and tactics that have the potential to save you tens of thousands of dollars in college expenses.

A CCFS® (Certified College Funding Specialist) is qualified to share prudent tax, financial, cash flow, and lending advice that helps families lower the costs of college and pay the tuition bill.