Best Mefa Podcasts (2024)

1
Undermatching: Why Qualified Students Don’t Apply to Selective Colleges 28:59

2d ago28:59

28:59

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.By MEFA

1
Episode 14 - Reflect on your experiences with Jacob Knox-Hooke 48:24

7h ago48:24

48:24

Have you ever wondered about the untold stories behind influential leaders? On this episode of Leadership in Colour, we sit down with Jacob Knox-Hooke, Operations Director and Co-Leader of DE&I at PHD Global, to uncover the rich tapestry of his life and career. We trace the unique history of Jacob's name back to Sierra Leone, exploring how his heri…

1
Crafting a Stellar College Essay 30:24

6h ago30:24

30:24

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.By MEFA

1
Your MEFA Loan Questions Answered 24:30

1d ago24:30

24:30

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Stephanie Wells, MEFA’s Director of College Relations, about MEFA Loans, including how to apply, the different loans terms, and how families can determine the best option.By MEFA

1
Exploring Trades at North Bennet Street School 25:29

2d ago25:29

25:29

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Rob O'Dwyer, Director of Admissions at North Bennet Street School, a vocational school in Boston that trains students for careers in traditional trades that use hand skills in concert with evolving technology.By MEFA

1
Scholarships with August Deadlines and for Adult Learners 19:09

4d ago19:09

19:09

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA’s own Julie Shields-Rutyna to answer a MEFA Mailbag question, and MEFA’s Lauren Danz joins to share details of upcoming scholarships.By MEFA

1
It’s Not Too Late to Make Your College Plans 18:11

2M ago18:11

18:11

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA’s own Julie Shields-Rutyna about how there’s still time to apply to college for this upcoming fall semester.By MEFA

1
Episode 13 - Children of the World with Davina Barker 34:46

2M ago34:46

34:46

Discover the secrets to success by embracing your unique journey in this thought-provoking podcast episode featuring Davina Barker, Sales Director for Digital Cinema Media. Davina shares her extraordinary life story, from her adoption and the meaningful tale behind her name to her recent accolade, the MEFA Hammer Award. Gain intimate insights into …

1
Ben Franklin’s Gift to Boston: Franklin Cummings Tech 26:13

2M ago26:13

26:13

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Michael Goldstein, the Dean of Admissions and Head of Innovation for Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology.By MEFA

1
All about Gap Years 17:59

2M ago17:59

17:59

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Co-Director of College Counseling at Gann Academy, Sherri Geller, about gap years, a period of time when students take a break from school, usually between high school and college.By MEFA

1
What to Know about Picking a College, and When to Know It 38:30

2M ago38:30

38:30

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Dr. Timothy Poynton and Dr. Amanda Sterk of College Unmazed on how students can make an informed college decision.By MEFA

1
What to Know about Investing Your College Savings 29:56

3M ago29:56

29:56

Host Jonathan Hughes talks college savings investing with Cory Latham, Managing Director and 529 Relationship Manager at Fidelity Investments.By MEFA

1
Six Tips to Maximize Your College Visit 29:03

3M ago29:03

29:03

Host Jonathan Hughes speaks with Drew Carter, Deputy Director of Admission at College of the Holy Cross, about his tips for students visiting a college campus.By MEFA

1
Episode 12 - Dumpster Fire to Phoenix with Ally Owen 38:11

3M ago38:11

38:11

Ever wondered about the vibrant role of diversity in leadership and why it’s crucial in the corporate world? Join me, Shez Iqbal, for an insightful and dynamic conversation with Ally Owen, the energetic founder of Brixton Finishing School, who’s revolutionizing diversity in the advertising industry. In this episode, named (by Ally) Dumpster Fire to…

1
The Importance of Research Programs for High School Students 26:58

3M ago26:58

26:58

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Professor of the Practice of Biomedical Engineering and Global Health Emeritus at Duke University and founder of the International Research Institute (IRI) Dr. Robert Malkin about the importance of research and how he helps high school students get involved in it.By MEFA

1
Career Spotlight: Mass Water Works Association 27:03

3M ago27:03

27:03

Episode #80. In celebration of Drinking Water Week, host Jonathan Hughes talks with Jennifer Pederson, the Executive Director of Mass Water Works Association, about what Mass Water Works does and their employment opportunities. They discuss water systems, trainings, and careers within the field. Jonathan also talks to Carter Gruca, who, through Mas…

1
High School Intern on Work, School, & College Apps 22:30

3M ago22:30

22:30

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA’s intern, Jariel Ruiz, a senior at Cristo Rey High School in Boston.By MEFA

1
College Admissions: Three Student Experiences 26:09

4M ago26:09

26:09

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with three students from Northeast Metropolitan Regional Professional School about their experiences applying to college.By MEFA

1
FAFSA Updates from an Expert 18:12

4M ago18:12

18:12

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA’s Director of College Relations, Shawn Morrissey, about the new FAFSA, including updates and changes to the FAFSA, what students and families need to know about their FAFSA statuses, and what families can do now and in the coming months.By MEFA

1
One Student’s Journey to Selecting His Nursing Major 21:52

4M ago21:52

21:52

Episode #76. Host Jonathan Hughes talks with nursing student and current EMT Steven Tcheauafei about his journey figuring out what major was best for him. He talks about how becoming an EMT while in school directed his school choices, his thought process in transferring schools and changing majors, and how financial aid played a role in his decisio…

1
Behind the scenes: Leadership in Colour - Sneaker Chat with Gary and Elaine 8:06

4M ago8:06

8:06

Join us for an engaging and light-hearted sneak peek into our upcoming interview with Gary Rayneau and Elaine Dela Cruz, the dynamic duo behind Project23 and Coaches of Colour. In this delightful behind-the-scenes outtake, we not only touch on the profound impact of their DEI work but also share laughs over fashion and sneakers, showcasing the infe…

1
E11: The Coaching Special with Gary and Elaine 58:24

4M ago58:24

58:24

In this special coaching edition of Leadership in Colour, we delve into an insightful and engaging conversation with Gary Rayneau and Elaine Dela Cruz, the innovative minds behind Project23, Coaches of Colour, and the Equitable Coaching Foundation. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the passionate and dynamic world these two leaders navigate, …

1
New Scholarships and Tips for Applying 15:46

4M ago15:46

15:46

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna first answer a MEFA Mailbag question. Later they talk to MEFA’s own Lauren Danz, who shares scholarship tips and highlights some scholarships with April deadlines.By MEFA

1
How One Program Helps a City Prepare and Plan for College 29:20

5M ago29:20

29:20

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Dr. Rose Boulay of Springfield Promise about Springfield’s demographics, how Springfield Promise helps students and families, their strategies for working with different populations, and the challenges they have faced with FAFSA and financial aid this year.By MEFA

1
Financial Advice on College, Debt, and Retirement 20:27

5M ago20:27

20:27

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Amanda Sharratt, Chief Operating Officer and Financial Advisor for Whitaker Myers Wealth Managers, who shares financial advice for families as they plan for college, manage debt, and save for retirement.By MEFA

1
Finding Your College Fit 21:07

5M ago21:07

21:07

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna share highlights from MEFA’s webinar that outlined six keys to finding a good college fit, which was presented by Dr. Timothy Poynton and Dr. Amanda Sterk.By MEFA

1
E10: Your stomach isn’t a graveyard for dead animals! with Anant Joshi 49:00

5M ago49:00

49:00

Embark with us on a captivating exploration of the mind and soul of Anant Joshi, the media maven and Plant CEO pioneer. His journey from investment management to becoming a trailblazer in the ad tech landscape during the digital age's zenith reveals not just the growth of an industry but the evolution of a leader. Anant's tales of innovation and di…

1
What is Direct Admissions? 22:00

5M ago22:00

22:00

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Vice President for Undergraduate Enrollment at Regis College, Christopher Lydon, about Direct Admissions, a process in which students are admitted to colleges without applying to themBy MEFA

1
Money Management for Millennials 24:24

6M ago24:24

24:24

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with the founder of The College Investor, Robert Farrington. Robert is a leading expert on student loan debt with a goal of getting students out of debt and helping them build their wealth.By MEFA

1
Bonus Episode: Food for Soul 42:32

6M ago42:32

42:32

This episode of Leadership in Colour presents an unparalleled Black History Month dialogue. Clinging to the edges, we navigate a series of unexpected revelations and insightful detours, led by our distinguished guests on a captivating journey of discovery. In this special edition, we re-welcome the perceptive Aaron Adams from Criteo and introduce t…

1
What Families Should Know about the Latest FAFSA Delays 17:52

6M ago17:52

17:52

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna talk with Director of College Relations at MEFA, Shawn Morrissey, about the new FAFSA form and the challenges and delays families have been experiencing.By MEFA

1
E9: Follow your Gut... (but with some caveats) with Serhat Ekinci 50:14

6M ago50:14

50:14

Have you ever paused to marvel at the power of your heritage and how it shapes your identity? Serhat Ekinci, a charismatic figure from UNITE of OMG, joins me in this conversation which unpacks the vibrant hues that paint his leadership style and cultural savvy. His story is a kaleidoscope of experiences, from a childhood spent hustling in the marke…

1
A New Avenue for Immigrants and Financial Aid in Massachusetts 23:12

6M ago23:12

23:12

Host Jonathan Hughes sits down for a conversation with Jonathan Paz of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugees Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition about the new state financial aid form for immigrant students, the MASFA.By MEFA

1
The Value of Education, Diversity, and HBCUs 20:51

6M ago20:51

20:51

Host Jonathan Hughes sits down for a conversation about historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with Senior Associate Director of Scholarships at Howard University, Dr. Danette Burgess.By MEFA

1
Keeping Up with the FAFSA’s Current Roadblocks 25:55

6M ago25:55

25:55

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna discuss the most common issues that have come up for families while trying to file the 2024-25 FAFSA.By MEFA

1
Scholarships with February Deadlines 12:35

7M ago12:35

12:35

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna answer a MEFA Mailbag question about 529 plans on the FAFSA. Then MEFA’s Lauren Danz discusses 3 scholarships that have February deadlines.By MEFA

1
E8: You Can't Cheat the Game with Sam Ajilore 41:14

7M ago41:14

41:14

Ever wonder how a deep appreciation for entertainment and a keen editorial eye can concoct a media empire? Sam Ajilore, did just that, transforming a school project into the widely acclaimed That Grape Juice. In our latest heart-to-heart, Sam recounts his voyage from the inception of a name that echoes his Nigerian heritage to orchestrating a platf…

1
High School Freshman Teach About College Financial Aid 17:31

7M ago17:31

17:31

Host Jonathan Hughes sits down with three freshman from King Phillip High School, Tanmayee Kollouri, Laura Da Silva, and Ella Bailey. They participate in the DECA Program at their school with a focus on college student loans.By MEFA

1
Checking In on the New FAFSA 15:56

7M ago15:56

15:56

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna discuss the new 2024-25 FAFSA and the issues that have arisen, how to file the form, and what to do if problems arise.By MEFA

1
Your FAFSA Questions Answered 20:12

8M ago20:12

20:12

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna answer a whole range of questions regarding FAFSA Simplification and the new 2024-25 FAFSA.By MEFA

1
E7: Be brave and do it with Ruby Raut 44:48

8M ago44:48

44:48

Have you ever wondered about the environmental impact of disposable period products? Join me as I sit down with Ruby Raut, the Co-Founder and CEO of WUKA, a brand committed to reducing the use of these products through their innovative, sustainable period underwear. Ruby shares the inspiration that led to the creation of WUKA and discusses the chal…

1
Social Media and College Admissions 24:49

8M ago24:49

24:49

Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Bright Horizon College Coach’s Sara Calvert-Kubrom about how students can use social media to their advantage in the college admissions process.By MEFA

1
How One Adult is Using MassReconnect to Attend College for Free 35:26

9M ago35:26

35:26

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna first talk about exciting news about when the FAFSA will be available to fill out this year. Then they answer a mailbag question about the FAFSA and who gets to file as an independent student. Then Jonathan has a conversation with Brendan Melican. Brendan is a Worcester resident and student at Q…

1
E6: It’s all about empathy with Darren Sital-Singh 40:31

9M ago40:31

40:31

What does it mean to be authentic in the creative industry? How does one navigate the tricky path of maintaining individuality while fitting into an industry notorious for its lack of diversity? Join us as we delve into these questions and more with Darren Sital-Singh, the Managing Director of UK agency Studio Pi. Darren shares a heart-warming jour…

1
The Inside Scoop on How Financial Aid Policy Works 42:59

9M ago42:59

42:59

Host Jonathan Hughes speaks with Justin Draeger, President and CEO of NASFAA, about what NASFAA is, how they operate, how they help shape financial aid policy with Congress, and the future of financial aid policy.By MEFA

1
Financial Aid for Students with Divorced Parents 39:50

10M ago39:50

39:50

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna have a conversation with Director of Student Financial Services at Wheaton College Susan Beard on the topic of applying for financial aid with separated or divorced parents.By MEFA

1
Finding a College in Your Price Range 46:13

10M ago46:13

46:13

Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna answer some frequently asked questions about the FAFSA and the financial aid process. Then they talk with the founder and CEO of TuitionFit, Mark Salisbury, about gaps in admissions and financial aid transparency at colleges and how to determine which school makes the most financial sense.…

1
E5: Just talk to each other with Ravleen Beeston 43:39

10M ago43:39

43:39

Can you imagine working at a tech juggernaut like Microsoft for 17 years, navigating the ever-evolving terrain while staying authentic to your cultural roots? Well, get ready to meet someone who has done precisely that. Our esteemed guest, Ravleen Beeston, opens up about her inspiring journey, sharing valuable insights into finding fulfilment, embr…

1
How At The Core Helps Students Make Plans for the Future 40:51

10M ago40:51

40:51

Host Jonathan Hughes first talks with Julie about Federal Direct Student Loans going into repayment. Then they go to the MEFA Mailbag and answer a question about reporting savings accounts on the FAFSA. Finally, Jonathan sits down with Beth Probst of At the Core.By MEFA

1
How Massachusetts is Helping Fund College Savings Plans 34:01

11M ago34:01

34:01

Host Jonathan Hughes has a conversation with the BabySteps Director of Program Evaluation Daphna Gluck on what the BabySteps Program is, its success so far, program improvements, and a brand new initiative, SNAP into BabySteps.By MEFA

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