Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Director of Recruitment at the College of the Holy Cross, Drew Carter, about how to lower pressure for students in the college search process. They explain why asking teens endless questions about their college preferences can overwhelm them, and why mini-exposures to campuses and casual conversations work better.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with two students from Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical High School, as well as an instructor. Michael Solata ,an Advanced Manufacturing student, explains some of the machines and programs they use, while Catherine Aguilar, a Veterinary Technician student, discusses her coursework, her co-op, and the animals she works with.

Host Jonathan Hughes answers a question from a student at Blue Hills Regional Technical High School about whether financial aid can change from year to year and what factors may cause those changes.

Host Jonathan Hughes answers a question from a student at Blue Hills Regional Technical High School about borrowing limits for student loans.

Host Jonathan Hughes answers a question from a student at Blue Hills Regional Technical High School about the FAFSA and community college.

This episode is all in the family as host Jonathan Hughes talks to Donna Connolly, a longtime MEFA Ambassador and retired college access counselor, and her son Shaun Connolly, the producer of this podcast. They discuss their experience of choosing Shaun’s college when he was in high school, including the finances involved in the decision, the emotions that came with it, and what it was like for Donna, as a parent, to say “no” to her child’s first choice college.

Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by frequent guest of the MEFA Podcast and founder and president of The Institute of Student Loan Advisors (TISLA), Betsy Mayotte. They discuss changes to the Parent PLUS and Grad PLUS Federal Loans, as well as other changes within the federal loan programs offered by the Department of Education.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Jenna Shales, Executive Director of Student Accessibility Services at Bridgewater State University, about resources in higher education for students with disabilities. They discuss the key differences between K-12 and college disability services, the importance of student-led advocacy, the range of accommodations and campus resources available, and what to look for when evaluating campus accessibility.

Host Jonathan Hughes speaks with HVAC and Plumbing Technician Matthew Belcher. They discuss Matthew’s education and career choices, which include community college, the trades, teaching, and owning his own business, as well as pivots in his industry, and his advice on learning, mentorship, and finding the right path after high school.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with six seniors from New Bedford High School about their experience navigating the college admissions and financial aid process. They discuss campus visits, college applications, financial aid forms, and the emotions of the entire process.