Unlock the secrets of navigating college costs and financial aid with our latest episode of College TNT! Host Jen Schoen promises to transform your understanding of the true cost of attending college, beyond just the sticker price. Through a thorough breakdown of the Cost of Attendance (COA), you'll gain clarity on both direct expenses like tuition and room and board, as well as those sneaky indirect costs such as textbooks and personal expenses. Discover how tools like the FAFSA and the Student Aid Index can demystify the financial aid process, bridging the gap between what your family can realistically afford and the overall expenses of a college education.

You will become more savvy about financial aid options, as Jen tackles essential questions that could impact your choice of school. From understanding how colleges meet full demonstrated need to the ins and outs of work-study programs, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your college education. Learn how even the most prestigious colleges can become financially accessible, and why starting this conversation early is crucial for both students and families. Don't let financial fears dictate your educational journey; instead, gain the confidence to balance affordability with the right college choice.

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

Unlock the secrets to maximizing your college financial aid package by understanding the FAFSA process! Join me, Jen Schoen, as I guide you through the a primer on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid in this episode of College TNT. We'll explore the significance of the FAFSA as a crucial financial disclosure document that paves the way for federal, institutional, and state aid. With a focus on ensuring that you and your family complete the application correctly, I'll break down the process step-by-step, from obtaining your FAFSA ID to understanding the Student Aid Index (SAI).

As we unravel the complexities of financial aid, I'll highlight how the Student Aid Index interacts with the cost of attendance to shape your aid eligibility. This episode is packed with insights and tips to empower both students and parents in their financial aid journey. With helpful resources and expert advice, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the FAFSA and secure the financial support needed for college success. Whether you're just starting your college admissions journey or guiding your child through the process, this episode is your go-to guide for financial aid mastery.

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

In part 2 of effective goal setting, you will unlock the secrets to achieving your personal and academic goals with more ease and consistency. Imagine having a proven strategy that elevates your success rate to a whopping 91%. Join me, Jen, on College TNT as I guide you through the transformative power of "doing the reps" and setting implementation intentions (fancy words for planning!). This technique involves planning your actions with specifics on time and location to supercharge your goal attainment. Our conversation also delves into embracing challenges head-on and nurturing a mindset that finds joy in the journey, not just the destination.

Embark on a metaphorical mountain climb with me, as we explore how to celebrate and appreciate the small victories that pave your way to bigger successes. This episode is your roadmap to not just starting the new year strong but finishing it with a sense of accomplishment across academics, relationships, and teamwork. With practical tips and heartfelt encouragement, I am here to support your ascent toward your personal peaks. Connect with me on Instagram and Facebook to share your progress and insights—let's celebrate each step together!

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

What if setting goals could be the secret ingredient to transforming your college dreams into reality? Join me, Jen Schoen, in this episode of College TNT as we embark on the new year with a focus on goal setting. You'll discover six pivotal tips (three in this episode) that are designed not just to inspire, but to equip you with the tools needed for a successful college journey. From deciphering your personal "why" to crafting detailed, actionable plans, we break down how understanding your motivations can set the foundation for both academic and personal triumphs.

As we navigate through the initial steps, I highlight the underestimated power of writing down your ambitions with precision, including specific timelines and measurable outcomes. It might sound straightforward, but this practice is instrumental in keeping your aspirations crystal clear and your progress on track. Whether you're a student mapping out your educational path or a parent determined to support your child's collegiate goals, this episode promises to transform aspirations into strategic actions. Let's kick off 2025 with renewed purpose and a clear roadmap to success!

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

In this episode, I'll explore essential tips for writing a strong college or scholarship application essay that reflect your unique experiences and voice. The episode emphasizes adding unique details to show your experiences, effective editing, and the importance of proofreading for clarity and impact.

Topics will include 
- Importance of writing a personal essay specific to your experiences and using detailed examples to showcase your individuality
- Editing and proofreading as crucial steps in the writing process
- Techniques for ensuring your voice remains authentic through feedback, and some warnings against relying solely on spellcheck!

If you found these tips helpful, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to email me at [email protected] or reach out on social media on Facebook at CollegeTNT and on Instagram at College_TNT.

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

Crafting a scholarship or college essay that stands out is no small feat, but what if you could transform your writing with a few actionable tips? Join me as I unlock the secrets to compelling essays with practical tips you can apply  to scholarship applications and to college admissions essays. Discover how staying on topic and adhering to word counts can enhance the impact of your essay, keeping you from being cut off mid-thought. From tackling the quirky Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship prompt to navigating open-ended questions on the Common App, I can guide you through essay writing.

These tips help you think strategically about your essays, aligning them with  values of the scholarships or institutions you're aiming for. Whether you're showcasing your community service for a Rotary scholarship or highlighting unique personal experiences, I emphasize the importance of resonating with your readers. In this episode, we focus on the foundational steps of crafting your essay, setting you up for success. Stay tuned for the next part, where we delve into personalizing your essay further and mastering the art of proofreading for an error-free final draft.

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

Unlock the secrets to securing scholarships that ease the financial burden of college education! Learn how dedicating just one "Scholarship Power Hour" each week can transform your approach to finding those elusive opportunities. Use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to uncover scholarships that others might overlook. You'll also discover how tools like Pomofocus can help you maintain laser-sharp focus during your search. Don't pass by those hidden gems that aren't on the first page of Google results—as they often come with less competition. 

In anticipation of next week's tips on crafting meaningful scholarship and college application essays, I'll highlight the critical role a well-written essay plays in catching the attention of admission panels. 

With these tips, you'll be better prepared to present your best self in your applications, both for college and scholarships. So, join me on College TNT as I support you in making your college dreams a reality, one step at a time.

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

Is it truly beneficial for students to say they are undecided when applying to college? Discover how keeping an open mind might actually set your student on a path to success. We tackle this intriguing question from Amy, a mother of a high school junior, who wonders about the advantages and drawbacks of her son applying as an undecided student. We'll explore how entering college without a declared major can be a strategic move, allowing students to explore the vast array of academic options beyond the typical high school curriculum. 

Join us as we uncover the practical side of applying as an undecided student, offering advice on engaging with admissions counselors to better understand the implications. We'll share valuable insights on how students can demonstrate their commitment to academics, even without a specific major, emphasizing the importance of a strong application and high school transcript. This episode is essential for students and parents looking to navigate the complexities of college admissions and seize the opportunity that comes with starting college undeclared.

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

Ready to transform your college applications from ordinary to extraordinary? Join me, Jen Schoen, on College TNT as I reveal the secrets to mastering the activities list, a pivotal yet frequently underestimated part of the college application process. Admissions officers are not just looking for stellar academic records; they want students who will be part of a vibrant campus life. This episode unpacks the two critical questions admissions professionals focus on: your academic potential and your contributions to campus culture. The activities list offers insights into your dedication, leadership, and the unique impact you might have on a college community.

We'll navigate through the top five factors you should consider when crafting your activities list, encouraging you to think like an admissions counselor. From showcasing your long-term commitments to identifying leadership in various settings, such as a part-time job or family responsibilities, you'll learn how to highlight experiences that reveal your character and potential. It's not just about holding titles; it's about demonstrating growth and initiative. Tune in to discover how to organize and present your experiences compellingly, ensuring that your application captures the vibrant and meaningful contributions you’ll bring to your future college.

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents

Discover how your activities list can be the secret weapon in your college application. While the spotlight often shines on the essay, I've found that a well-constructed activities list can speak volumes about your potential contribution to a campus community. Join me, Jen Schoen, as I walk you through the steps to crafting an list that is meaningful to you AND resonates with admissions counselors. From the not-so-simple following directions to organizing your high school experiences meaningfully, this episode offers invaluable insights to ensure your application stands out for all the right reasons.

Don't let the activities section be an afterthought in your college application process. I share practical strategies to help you reflect on and articulate your high school journey, highlighting what truly makes you unique. By presenting your achievements clearly and thoughtfully, you make the admissions officer’s job easier, increasing your chances of being remembered. 

For more about my tips and my experience, check out the links below.

On Youtube

You can reach me at [email protected].

College TNT

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenschoen/
https://www.firstgenfm.com/speaker-high-school-educators-students-parents