Now that the new year is in full swing, we’re wrestling with whether to keep our resolutions or change them; life’s events keep pressing forward and filling the calendar.
Can you believe it? Students are entering the final semester of their 1st year of college, their K-12 career, 4 years of college, or 18 months of career school. WOW
When speaking with students, especially high school seniors, they express a strong sense that things “are real now”. “Ya, I am going to be done in May. Those completing their 1st year of college often note that classes, faculty, and possibly the adjustment were more complex than anticipated. For now, focus on preparing yourself as a parent! https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/deviced/202205/how-to-parent-a-graduate
ICYMI
Significant changes are coming to college funding this July 1, 2026
The changes affect the rules governing federal student loan financing and repayment programs. Here is a small taste of what’s ahead for new and existing families and individuals:
- Elimination of Grad PLUS Loans: This program has been a critical resource for individuals seeking financial aid to pursue professional degrees, including Nurse Practitioners, Physical and Occupational Therapists, and Teachers.
- Parent PLUS Restrictions: New Parent PLUS loan limits to be capped at $20,000 per year, with an aggregate limit of $65,000.
- Limited Repayment Options: New borrowers after this date will only have access to two plans: the New Standard Plan and the RAP.
Final details on the full implementation of these changes have not been revealed. My calls to Congress and the Administration to inquire have gone unanswered. We will share more as we learn.
NOTE: Before you plan to raid your retirement or ask a 65+ to co-sign a private education loan, check with your financial professional or call me. There is always PLAN B.
Employers & Employees
Last month, I briefly touched on the impact of financial wellness on employees’ productivity and mental well-being. Money stress isn’t just a personal problem anymore—it’s a business risk.
Managing debt, financing college, and helping high school- and college-age students pursue their dreams are not employers’ direct responsibilities. But if your employees bring their stress to work, and they will, having the workforce’s financial well-being programs can save your bottom line. can have on the bottom line and spark employee loyalty. Call to learn more.
WHAT’s NEXT
Families of High School Seniors
- Comparing College Offers – Apps are in, and now it’s time to step up the process of evaluating and comparing offers, admission & financial aid to select the college, university, or career school to attend in.
- Don’t Be Pressured – Postponing the start of college by taking a gap year is becoming increasingly common among students at all levels. After a K-12 journey, many students question their next steps, need a break, or want to evaluate which path to pursue after high school. Read my blog article on Education and Career Pathways After High School https://getcollegegoing.com/education-career-pathways-after-high-school/
- Scholarships – The hunt is on! Check with the School Counselors Office, current employers, colleges of interest, and beyond. Be creative, use unique keywords, and make it a family competition. The more you can find, the less you might need to borrow.
Families of High School Juniors
- The Old Way is Broken – What is your spending and buying power? Are you ready for the cost to obtain a 4-year public or private undergraduate degree, or a career school education? Understanding investment savings, eligibility for financial aid, and expectations for each family is critical before creating a list or visiting a campus. The financial risk is too high!!
- Line in the Sand – This year is Pivotal! Students need to focus on their academic and personal development. Enrolling in challenging academic courses, maintaining strong grades, drafting an essay, and refining one’s skills are essential this year. I’m asking my clients, what makes you unique?
- Build College Relationships – If you think college admissions know you, think again. They buy students’ names, mail, and email love notes, and we all think we’re being recruited. No!! Students need a resume, a LinkedIn profile, and a plan to reverse the recruitment process.
Kickstarting Your Return – Transfer
Whether you’re a recent high school grad, have been out for a short while, or are considering a different venue, your work is not any different. Just shorter!!
- What are your personal goals? – Are you ready for full-time or part-time? Do you need to keep working to maintain your lifestyle or meet your family’s needs? Which educational environment suits me best? Community College, Certificate, Online, or Skilled Professional Training at the IBEW Training Center?
- How will I afford this reboot? – Employee tuition assistance, traditional college financial aid, scholarships, and other resources are all on the table.
Guidance – Counseling & Advice?
For retirement savings, we turn to a financial adviser; for buying a home, a realtor; and for home remodeling, contractors. Thinking of college & career school; how to pay, where to go, and how to get in, and managing education debt? That’s our lane, our expertise. Consider Get College Going!
Schedule a free consultation to learn [617-240-7350] (email: tom@getcollegegoing.com ) or visit www.getcollegegoing.com