Ol' College Try

Are you planning college visits but not sure where to start? In this episode, host Peg Keough sits down with CAP financial aid expert Jonathan West to break down everything families need to know about college visits — from sophomore year exploratory tours all the way to decision-day campus trips.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why college visits matter (and how they impact demonstrated interest)
• When to visit — and what's different about each stage of the process
• What to do beyond the official tour (career placement offices, Facebook parent groups, student newspapers, and more)
• How to have real conversations with current students
• Why you should understand your financial fit before you ever set foot on a campus
• Virtual tour tips for families who can't travel

💡 Key takeaway: Don't visit schools you can't afford. Know your numbers first — your family's stress level will thank you.

🎵 This episode's song pick: Jaded Lover by Jerry Jeff Walker, chosen by Jonathan West — a nod to late-70s North Carolina and the legendary club PB Scott's in Blowing Rock.

🎧 Listen to our full podcast playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7qSwvLBniTzxsEiPABTp4D?si=pYMyk37AQ8Gsn9Q_4IeXLw

📚 Resources & Links

🔢 Understand your college costs for FREE→ Create your MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0→ Student Loan Fact Sheet: https://hubs.li/Q04cmnWD0

💰 Get 15% OFF sitewide with code COLLEGETRY15→ https://collegeaidpro.com

Follow us:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/📧 Email: [email protected]

What if the biggest mistake families make in the college process happens before they even apply?

In this episode, Matt sits down with College Aid Pro expert and former USC Director of Financial Aid, JP Schmidt, for an inside look at how colleges really operate—from admissions strategy to financial aid packaging to the business side of higher education.

JP shares what he learned working behind the scenes at one of the country’s most competitive universities, why rankings can be misleading, and how colleges strategically shape both admissions and aid offers.

They cover:

• Why most families approach college planning backwards
• The difference between “best school” and “best fit”
• How colleges determine financial aid behind the scenes
• Why two families with similar finances can get very different aid offers
• The reality of “meeting 100% of need”
• How colleges use pricing, scholarships, and prestige strategically
• Why building a smart college list starts with budget conversations early
• The biggest financial mistakes families make before senior year

Plus, JP shares the exact framework he uses to help families create college lists that align academically, personally, and financially—without sacrificing long-term financial stability.

🎧 Whether you’re a parent of a freshman or a senior making final decisions, this episode will completely change the way you think about college planning.

Student Loan Fact Sheet: https://hubs.li/Q04cmnWD0

Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com

Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/⁠⁠Email: ⁠⁠[email protected] Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💰

In this episode of The Ol' College Try Podcast, host Peg Keough sits down with admissions expert Jenna Schebell to pull back the curtain on what really happens after students submit their college applications.

Before diving into the admissions conversation, Peg shares this week’s song pick: Slide by Goo Goo Dolls — the fun, sentimental song she chose for the choreographed mother-son dance at her son’s wedding.

With more than 20 years of experience working in college admissions offices, high schools, and private counseling, Jenna explains how colleges evaluate applicants, why admissions decisions can feel unpredictable, and how institutional priorities shape every incoming class.

Families will learn:

• How holistic admissions actually works
• Why colleges recalculate GPAs differently
• What admissions officers look for beyond grades and test scores
• How school profiles and course rigor impact decisions
• Why one student can get rejected from one school and accepted to another
• How “yield protection” and enrollment strategy influence admissions
• Why public flagship universities have become dramatically more competitive
• What parents and students should focus on instead of obsessing over rankings and acceptance rates

Peg and Jenna also discuss the emotional side of the admissions process, the dangers of misinformation on social media, and why finding the right college fit matters more than chasing prestige.

Whether you're a parent of a high school student, a college counselor, or a student preparing your college list, this episode offers practical insights into today’s increasingly competitive college admissions landscape.

In this episode of The Ol' College Try Podcast, host Peg Keough sits down with admissions expert Jenna Schebell to pull back the curtain on what really happens after students submit their college applications.Before diving into the admissions conversation, Peg shares this week’s song pick: Slide by Goo Goo Dolls — the fun, sentimental song she chose for the choreographed mother-son dance at her son’s wedding.With more than 20 years of experience working in college admissions offices, high schools, and private counseling, Jenna explains how colleges evaluate applicants, why admissions decisions can feel unpredictable, and how institutional priorities shape every incoming class.Families will learn:How holistic admissions actually worksWhy colleges recalculate GPAs differentlyWhat admissions officers look for beyond grades and test scoresHow school profiles and course rigor impact decisionsWhy one student can get rejected from one school and accepted to anotherHow “yield protection” and enrollment strategy influence admissionsWhy public flagship universities have become dramatically more competitiveWhat parents and students should focus on instead of obsessing over rankings and acceptance ratesPeg and Jenna also discuss the emotional side of the admissions process, the dangers of misinformation on social media, and why finding the right college fit matters more than chasing prestige.Whether you're a parent of a high school student, a college counselor, or a student preparing your college list, this episode offers practical insights into today’s increasingly competitive college admissions landscape.

Connect with Us!

Student Loan Fact Sheet:

https://hubs.li/Q04cmnWD0Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com

Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]

PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸

Connect with Jenna!

https://thecollegenavigators.com/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/thecollegenavigators/

Making your final college decision? You’ve got a number—but do you actually have a plan to pay it?

In this episode, Matt and Peg tackle your biggest end-of-month Q&A just days before the May 1 deadline. From 529 strategies to student loans and financial aid, they break down what families should be thinking about right now to avoid costly mistakes.

Making your final college decision? You’ve got a number—but do you actually have a plan to pay it?In this episode, Matt and Peg tackle your biggest end-of-month Q&A just days before the May 1 deadline. From 529 strategies to student loans and financial aid, they break down what families should be thinking about right now to avoid costly mistakes.They cover:Why you shouldn’t spend your entire 529 in year oneHow to maximize the $2,500 American Opportunity Tax CreditWhat happens if your 529 doesn’t cover all four yearsWhat to do with leftover 529 funds or unexpected scholarshipsHow the CSS Profile works and what to know about non-custodial waiversThe difference between 529s, prepaid plans, and UTMA/UGMA accounts

Plus, real talk on why there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy—and how a little planning now can save you thousands later.

🎧 This week’s intro song: You Send Me by Sam Cooke

Bottom line: Don’t just focus on getting in—focus on how you’re paying for all four years.

Got questions for our next Q&A episode? Send them our way—we’d love to hear from you!

Connect with Us!
Student Loan Fact Sheet: https://hubs.li/Q04cmnWD0

Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠

Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0I

nstagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/

⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸

Waitlisted? You’re not alone—and you’re not out of the game… but you’re not in it either.

In this episode, Peg is joined by CAP expert Dan “Lasso” Bisig to break down one of the most confusing parts of the college admissions process: the waitlist. What does it actually mean? How do colleges use it? And what should families be doing right now if their student is stuck in limbo?

They cover:

• Why colleges rely on waitlists (and why it’s not about you)
• What students should do immediately after being waitlisted
• The reality of getting off the waitlist—including tight decision timelines
• How financial aid works (or doesn’t) in waitlist situations
• Why you must have a backup plan before May 1
• The mindset shift every family needs to avoid unnecessary stress

Plus, a real-life story of getting “the call” from a dream school—and what families should be ready for if it happens.

🎧 This week’s intro song: Born in the U.S.A. by Bruce Springsteen—a high-energy classic to get you fired up.

Bottom line: Treat a waitlist like a “maybe,” plan like it’s a “no,” and move forward with confidence.

Got questions for our next Q&A episode? Send them our way—we’d love to hear from you!

Connect with Us! Student Loan Fact Sheet: https://hubs.li/Q04cmnWD0Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ ⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸

With the May 1 college decision deadline fast approaching, this episode breaks down exactly what families need to be doing right now to make the smartest possible choice—financially and academically.

Matt and Peg dive into real-world strategies for navigating this critical moment, including when (and if) it makes sense to put down multiple deposits, how to handle schools delaying financial aid appeal decisions, and why colleges don’t always have your financial best interest in mind.

They also walk through what happens after you commit—covering timelines for bills, how to actually pay for college, and the smartest ways to use 529 plans without leaving money on the table. Plus, they unpack how much student debt is “too much,” and how families can avoid costly mistakes that follow students long after graduation.

Whether you're a senior racing toward Decision Day or an underclassman hoping to avoid the same stress, this episode gives you a clear, practical roadmap to finish strong—and start college on the right financial footing.

🎧 Song Picks from This Episode:

“Honeybee” – Goose“Hungersite” – Goose

Plus, a shoutout to Bruce Springsteen (“The Boss”)—still delivering unforgettable live performances.

Connect with Us!

Student Loan Fact Sheet: https://hubs.li/Q04cmnWD0

Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠

Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ ⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

⁠ PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸

What if everything you thought you knew about paying for college… was wrong?

In this episode of Ol’ College Try, Matt sits down with Dr. Jason Slone—former professor, dean, financial advisor, and now CAP College Affordability Expert—to break down the reality behind college costs and financial aid.

Jason shares his unique journey from small-town Ohio to academia, the private sector, and ultimately helping families navigate one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. Along the way, he unpacks why so many families feel “stuck in the middle”—too wealthy for aid, but nowhere near able to comfortably afford $300K+ for college.

You’ll learn:

• Why college prestige is often overrated
• How to have honest (and productive) money conversations with your kids
• What most families misunderstand about financial aid
• Why “fit” matters more than rankings
• How to think like an adult when making college decisions

Plus, Jason shares insights from his new book Too Rich for Aid, Too Poor to Pay—a quick, practical guide designed to help families cut through the noise and lower the cost of college.

🎵 Song Pick of the Episode:
Domino College by Jimmy Buffett

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow, share, and leave a review—it helps more families find the guidance they need.

Connect with Jason!

Too Rich to Pay, Too Poor for Aid by Jason Slone: https://a.co/d/04mqvH3x

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-slone-phd-ccfc-578601231/

Learn More & Book an Hour with Jason (use code COLLEGETRY15 for 15% OFF your hour): https://collegeaidpro.com/college-experts-team/

Connect with Us! Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ ⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸

What does it really take to get into college today—and is it worth the cost?

In this episode of The Ol’ College Try, Peg Keough sits down with former Stanford student, longtime English teacher, and college essay expert Mark Hernandez to break down the realities of the admissions process. From the myth of “perfect stats” to the truth about how decisions are actually made, Mark shares what he saw firsthand after 25 years working with high-achieving students.

They dive into:

• Why great grades and test scores aren’t enough anymore
• The biggest mistakes students make on college essays (and how to stand out)
• Why “I’ll figure out the cost later” is a dangerous mindset
• The growing pressure of competition and social media
• How families can approach college as a financial decision, not just an emotional one

Plus, Mark shares actionable advice for students on writing bold, authentic essays—and for parents on supporting their kids without adding stress.

If you’re navigating the college process, this episode will help you think more clearly, plan smarter, and avoid costly missteps.

🎓 Featuring insights from a Stanford grad, veteran educator, and admissions insider perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.

Connect with Us!

Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠

Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/

⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠

PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸

Connect with Mark Hernandez!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/englishwithmarkh/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@englishwithmarkh

Website: https://englishwithmarkh.com/

In this open Q&A episode of Ol' College Try, Matt and Peg tackle some of the biggest (and most misunderstood) questions families have about paying for college.

From Parent PLUS vs. private loans to loan forgiveness for teachers, they break down what really matters when borrowing for college—and how to avoid costly mistakes. They also dig into the reality for middle-class families who feel stuck between “no aid” and “can’t afford it,” and explain why that assumption might be wrong.

Plus, they pull back the curtain on how financial aid and admissions are actually connected, what your Student Aid Index (SAI) really means, and why planning early can save you tens (or hundreds) of thousands.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by college costs, this episode will help you think more strategically—and stay in the driver’s seat.

What you’ll learn:

• How to choose between Parent PLUS and private student loans
• Loan forgiveness opportunities (especially for teachers)
• Why “we won’t qualify for aid” is often a myth
• The truth about financial aid and admissions decisions
• Key borrowing timelines and what to do right now
• A major upcoming change to Parent PLUS loan limits (and who it impacts)

🎧 Whether you’re a parent of a high schooler or already in the thick of college decisions, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you make smarter financial choices.

Connect with Us! Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ ⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸

Federal student loans are changing—big time. From the elimination of the SAVE repayment plan to new caps on Parent PLUS loans, these updates could dramatically impact how families pay for college.

In this episode, Matt sits down with College Aid Pro expert and Air Force veteran Mike Hunsberger to break down what’s changing, who it affects, and what families should be doing right now to prepare.

Whether you’re currently in repayment, about to borrow, or years away from college, this is a must-listen conversation.

Connect with Us! Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ ⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸