It’s the 100th episode of the MEFA Podcast! Host Jonathan Hughes sits down with MEFA’s Executive Director Tom Graf who discusses the podcast, MEFA’s accomplishments, and where MEFA is headed. Jonathan is then joined by co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna to discuss the previous 99 episodes of the MEFA Podcast and how MEFA helps listeners plan, save, and pay for college and reach financial goals. You’ll hear clips from past conversations with some of the podcast’s favorite guests, and learn about some of MEFA’s key programs, guidance, and insights.

Host Jonathan Hughes first talks with co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about the FSA ID. They then answer a question from the MEFA Mailbag. Finally, they speak with MEFA’s Director of College Relations, Shawn Morrissey, on the 2025-26 FAFSA.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Bronwyn Crick, a recent college grad, about how she was able to pay for both undergraduate and graduate school with her 529 college savings account.

Host Jonathan Hughes has a conversation with Team Leader of the 529 Directing Group at Fidelity Investments, Anthony Durkan, about MEFA’s partnership with Fidelity Investments and the results of the recent College Savings Indicator (CSI) study, including the ways that families are saving for college and parents’ behaviors, attitudes, and expectations around saving for college.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Dr. Monnica Chan, Assistant Professor at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, about college affordability and student loan repayment.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Cory Latham, the Director at Fidelity Investments responsibility for managing the MEFA U.Fund 529 College Investing Plan and the Attainable® Savings Plan for individuals with disabilities.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Cecilia Cronin, a recent graduate of Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland about the pros and cons of studying in another country.,

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Cicily Shaw, Director of College Counseling at Thayer Academy, about undermatching, a term that describes when qualified students don’t apply to competitive schools where they would likely be accepted.

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Deputy Director of Admission at College of the Holy Cross Drew Carter about how to write a successful college essay.