Shows
The MEFA PodcastMEFA’s Year in Review: 2025In this end-of-year wrap-up, host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna look back at hot topics and MEFA content that resonated the most with families in 2025. They review popular podcast episodes, top-read articles, and most-viewed videos, with topics ranging from 529 plans to financial aid tools to college admissions trends, and more. They also offer a look ahead to MEFA’s work in the year to come.
2025-12-3026 minThe MEFA PodcastGiving the Gift of College Savings and Financial IndependenceHost Jonathan Hughes talks to Patricia Roberts, Chief Operating Officer at Gift of College, about the importance of saving for the future, her personal experience saving for college for her son, college gifting, and the MEFA gift cards now available.
2025-11-2534 minThe MEFA PodcastThe 2026-27 FAFSA Is Out (and It Works!)Host Jonathan Hughes talks to MEFA’s Director of College Relations, Shawn Morrissey, about filling out the 2026-27 FAFSA. They discuss how much easier filing the form has become, the steps you need to take to file, and how to ask questions if you do get stuck.
2025-10-1527 minThe MEFA PodcastFAFSA Filing Tips and Fidelity’s Insights on Savings and Student DebtHost Jonathan Hughes speaks with MEFA’s Julie Shields-Rutyna about tips for filling out the 2026-27 FAFSA. They also answer a question from the MEFA Mailbag about remarried parents filing the FAFSA. Jonathan then talks to Managing Director at Fidelity Investments, Cory Latham, about the results of Fidelity and MEFA’s recent College Savings & Student Debt Study.
2025-10-0130 minThe MEFA PodcastExpanded Uses for 529 and 529A PlansHost Jonathan Hughes talks to Managing Director at Fidelity Investments, Cory Latham, about expanded uses for 529 and 529A plans, including MEFA’s U.Fund and Attainable Savings Plans. They discuss the expanded uses of 529 funds for K-12 expenses and certain credentialing programs, as well as the changes to ABLE accounts, which include expanding eligibility requirements, making certain provisions permanent, and introducing new tax benefits.
2025-09-1621 minThe MEFA PodcastCelebrating 30 Years of Saving for College with the U.PlanHost Jonathan Hughes talks to three current and former U.Plan customers about their experiences of saving for college with MEFA’s Prepaid Tuition Program. They discuss what made them save, why they choose the U.Plan specifically, and more.
2025-09-0921 minThe MEFA PodcastMEFA Mailbag: College LoansHost Jonathan Hughes talks with co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about college loans, while answering questions from you, the listener. They discuss federal loans, MEFA Loans, the process of applying, different repayment options, and much more.
2025-07-0827 minThe MEFA PodcastPlanning for College, Career Dreams, and the Internship ExperienceHost Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA’s high school intern from Cristo Rey Boston High School, Fatima Koumbassa, as well as her school supervisor, Jessina Baker. First Fatima shares her college admissions and financial aid journey, what she is interested in studying in college, and her duties and experience as a MEFA intern. Then Jonathan talks with Jessina about the internship program at Cristo Rey Boston High School and how Baker’s life experiences led her to this job.
2025-04-3025 minThe MEFA PodcastHow Educational Divide Reform Helps Students Prepare for College and Explore CareersHost Jonathan Hughes explores Educational Divide Reform, a non-profit organization that seeks to promote global citizenship, social inclusion, and community development through youth education. Jonathan talks with Educational Divide Reform’s Alice Cho about the organization’s college and career readiness program, and with middle school teacher Ana Berhe about the school and program connection. Two Brockton Public Schools students, Keisha and Tam, also share their experiences with the program.
2025-03-0435 minThe MEFA PodcastHow to Become a PilotHost Jonathan Hughes talks with two pilots, Cliff Lanyi and Jack Trendell, about their different journeys to becoming a pilot. They discuss schooling, acquiring their license, the number of hours they need to be certified, and much more. Plus, Jonathan explains how to use MEFA Pathway to explore information on becoming a pilot as well as other career pathways.
2025-02-1929 minThe MEFA PodcastBabySteps Turns 5: Checking In on the College Savings Incentive ProgramHost Jonathan Hughes first talks with Julie Shields-Rutyna to answer a mailbag question about rolling over unused U.Fund 529 savings into a Roth IRA. Then Jonathan talks with Deputy Director of the Massachusetts State Treasury’s Office of Economic Empowerment Samantha Perry. They discuss the BabySteps college savings incentive program, how it started, the progress it’s made, and planned efforts for its future.
2025-02-0531 minThe MEFA PodcastHow One Grandparent Is Saving for CollegeHost Jonathan Hughes talks with grandparent and retired lawyer Louis Rizoli. Mr. Rizoli has saved for all of his grandchildren in the MEFA U.Fund 529 college savings plan. Jonathan and Mr. Rizoli discuss how he found the U.Fund, what he appreciates about the plan, why he saves for his grandchildren, and more.
2025-01-2124 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat is Early College?Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Director of College Access at Bristol Community College, Christine Scafidi, about Early College, the school’s program that allows high school students to earn college credits. They discuss the program, how high school students interact with the colleges, what sort of students they tend to serve, and where students can get more information on Early College.
2025-01-0831 min
The Future of EducationHow MEFA Pathways Increasingly Includes College and CareerJonathan Hughes, Associate Director of College Planning and Content Creation at the Massachusetts Education Financing Authority, joined me to discuss the organization's work of helping students prepare for post-secondary education. We discussed how MEFA has evolved over its 40 years, including the addition of MEFA Pathways, an initiative focused on career navigation.Thanks for reading The Future of Education! This post is public so feel free to share it.Michael Horn:Welcome to the Future of Education, the show where we are dedicated to a world in which all individuals can build...
2024-12-2329 minThe MEFA Podcast20 and 1 Questions About the FAFSAHost Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna talk with MEFA’s Director of College Relations and FAFSA expert, Shawn Morrissey. Shawn answers 21 questions that MEFA has heard from families about completing the FAFSA.
2024-12-1826 minThe MEFA PodcastThe Gift of CollegeHost Jonathan Hughes talks with founder and CEO of Gift of College, Wayne Weber. They discuss how Weber started Gift of College, the benefits of saving for college, the ease of using a gift card to help someone save, and how you can use Gift of College Cards to save in MEFA U.Fund, U.Plan, and Attainable accounts, as well as make a payment toward a MEFA Loan.
2024-12-0320 minThe MEFA PodcastOur 100th Episode: Highlighting MEFA’s Past, Present, and FutureIt’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.
2024-11-1930 minThe MEFA Podcast2025-26 FAFSA UpdatesHost 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.
2024-10-1626 minThe MEFA PodcastA 529 College Savings Account Success StoryHost 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.
2024-10-0220 minThe MEFA PodcastHow Much Are Families Saving for College?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.
2024-09-1729 minThe MEFA PodcastThe Emotions of Student Loan RepaymentHost Jonathan Hughes talks with Dr. Monnica Chan, Assistant Professor at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, about college affordability and student loan repayment.
2024-09-0324 minThe MEFA PodcastInvesting in the Attainable Savings PlanHost 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.
2024-08-2723 minThe MEFA PodcastAttending an International CollegeHost 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.,
2024-08-2119 minThe MEFA PodcastLearning about Attainable Accounts for ABLE To Save MonthHost Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA’s Director of ABLE Outreach, Adam Hartwell, about ABLE accounts, tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities.
2024-08-1326 minThe MEFA PodcastUndermatching: Why Qualified Students Don’t Apply to Selective CollegesHost 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.
2024-08-0628 minThe MEFA PodcastCrafting a Stellar College EssayHost Jonathan Hughes talks with Deputy Director of Admission at College of the Holy Cross Drew Carter about how to write a successful college essay.
2024-07-3030 minThe MEFA PodcastYour MEFA Loan Questions AnsweredHost 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.
2024-07-2324 minThe MEFA PodcastExploring Trades at North Bennet Street SchoolHost 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.
2024-07-1725 minThe MEFA PodcastScholarships with August Deadlines and for Adult LearnersHost 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.
2024-07-0919 minThe MEFA PodcastIt’s Not Too Late to Make Your College PlansHost 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.
2024-06-2518 minThe MEFA PodcastBen Franklin’s Gift to Boston: Franklin Cummings TechHost Jonathan Hughes talks with Michael Goldstein, the Dean of Admissions and Head of Innovation for Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology.
2024-06-1926 minThe MEFA PodcastAll about Gap YearsHost 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.
2024-06-1217 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat to Know about Picking a College, and When to Know ItHost Jonathan Hughes talks with Dr. Timothy Poynton and Dr. Amanda Sterk of College Unmazed on how students can make an informed college decision.
2024-06-0438 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat to Know about Investing Your College SavingsHost Jonathan Hughes talks college savings investing with Cory Latham, Managing Director and 529 Relationship Manager at Fidelity Investments.
2024-05-2829 minThe MEFA PodcastSix Tips to Maximize Your College VisitHost 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.
2024-05-2129 minThe MEFA PodcastThe Importance of Research Programs for High School StudentsHost 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.
2024-05-1426 minThe MEFA PodcastCareer Spotlight: Mass Water Works AssociationEpisode #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 Mass Water Works, was able to obtain licenses and get a job with the Fitchburg Water Department.
2024-05-0827 minThe MEFA PodcastHigh School Intern on Work, School, & College AppsHost Jonathan Hughes talks with MEFA’s intern, Jariel Ruiz, a senior at Cristo Rey High School in Boston.
2024-04-3022 minThe MEFA PodcastCollege Admissions: Three Student ExperiencesHost Jonathan Hughes talks with three students from Northeast Metropolitan Regional Professional School about their experiences applying to college.
2024-04-2326 minThe MEFA PodcastFAFSA Updates from an ExpertHost 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.
2024-04-1618 minThe MEFA PodcastOne Student’s Journey to Selecting His Nursing MajorEpisode #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 decision-making.
2024-04-0921 minThe MEFA PodcastNew Scholarships and Tips for ApplyingHost 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.
2024-04-0215 minThe MEFA PodcastHow One Program Helps a City Prepare and Plan for CollegeHost 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.
2024-03-2629 minThe MEFA PodcastFinancial Advice on College, Debt, and RetirementHost 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.
2024-03-1920 minThe MEFA PodcastFinding Your College FitHost 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.
2024-03-1221 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat is Direct Admissions?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 them
2024-03-0522 minThe MEFA PodcastMoney Management for MillennialsHost 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.
2024-02-2724 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat Families Should Know about the Latest FAFSA DelaysHost 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.
2024-02-2017 minThe MEFA PodcastA New Avenue for Immigrants and Financial Aid in MassachusettsHost 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.
2024-02-1323 minThe MEFA PodcastThe Value of Education, Diversity, and HBCUsHost 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.
2024-02-0620 minThe MEFA PodcastKeeping Up with the FAFSA’s Current RoadblocksHost 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.
2024-01-3025 minThe MEFA PodcastScholarships with February DeadlinesHost 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.
2024-01-2312 minThe MEFA PodcastHow 3 High School Freshmen Taught Their School about College Financial AidHost 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.
2024-01-1617 minThe MEFA PodcastChecking In on the New FAFSAHost 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.
2024-01-0915 minThe MEFA PodcastYour FAFSA Questions AnsweredHost Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna answer a whole range of questions regarding FAFSA Simplification and the new 2024-25 FAFSA.
2023-12-2620 min
閱讀聊樂KEYEP81《童年之祕》一窺FB、Google創辦人及美國總統都曾受過的「蒙特梭利」教育！運用「錯誤控制」提供容許兒童嘗試錯誤的環境，降低成人的干預，讓兒童自主探索！ft. MEFA品牌總監【本集內容】
🔑介紹本集Keyman Michael，最專業的蒙特梭利教育分享平台MEFA品牌總監。推廣蒙特梭利教育近十年，擁有AMS 0~3/3~6歲國際師資證照、AMI 3~6/6~12歲助理講師證照。
🔑本集Keyman Michael介紹本書《童年之祕》及其作者Maria Montessori。
🔑孩子身上有很神秘的生命力量。
🔑兒童和你想像的不一樣，以秩序感重的兒童為例，分享如何與其相處。對於兒童的情緒來源，成人常要去猜其背後的原因。
🔑蒙特梭利教育是以大量觀察、記錄兒童行為模式所得出的大數據來看見、解讀兒童的方式。
🔑蒙特梭利教育的三大重點。理解孩子後，便可依據兒童的需要做好「成人預備」，再搭配環境預備來讓兒童的內在能量自由發揮、自主探索。
🔑蒙式教育分五大領域。每個領域是互相搭配的。
🔑好的探索環境對兒童的吸引力勝過3C產品。
🔑已知的經驗連結未知的學習。本集Keyman Michael分享兒童在蒙式教育裡如何學習注音。
🔑在成人眼中，兒童的每一次錯誤，對他們來說其實都是一次嘗試、一次探索、一次學習，這當中蘊含了許多樂趣與成就感。
🔑在蒙特梭利的混齡教育裡，雖說大孩子可能可以帶領小孩子學習，但要怎麼避免年齡較小的孩子，發展較落後的孩子感到強烈挫折感。
🔑受過蒙式教育和沒受過蒙式教育的孩子會有什麼不一樣的地方呢？
【本書特色】
《童年之祕》Maria Montessori 著
🗝️我們充分提供給兒童行為的動機，他們將在不同的知識領域不斷發現新東西。在這樣的環境裡，兒童將主動探索各式各樣的新奇事物。老師絕不會強迫兒童接受特定的知識，也不會限制兒童發展其天賦的行為。兒童的天賦，其實就是人的智慧。
🗝️對成人而言，兒童的心靈一直是難以理解的謎。因為成人總是用兒童外在的表現去猜測，而不是用兒童內在的精神力量去解釋。兒童的每一個行動，背後都有一個明確的理由。他做任何事總是有理由、有動機的。可能有更深一層的意義，可能代表一個有待解決的問題，或一個有待解答的謎題。有時大人很難找到這個答案，但尋找答案的過程，將是一件極為有趣的事。
【Keyman介紹】
Michael
蒙特梭利教育發展學會MEFA品牌總監
推廣蒙特梭利教育近十年
擁有AMS 0~3/3~6歲國際師資證照、AMI 3~6/6~12歲助理講師證照。
【參考資料】
✏️蒙特梭利教育發展學會介紹👉🏻https://mefa.soci.vip
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2023-11-1440 min
Legends of Adtech PodcastOff Record, On Point: The Equality Emergency with Sumran Kaul, Brand Metrics & MEFAFor episode 2 of season 2, Julia and Kasey get candid with Sumran Kaul, Client Lead at Brand Metrics and mentor for MEFA, about the state of equality and diversity in the media industry, how he would grade it and what needs to change in 2024... Disclaimer: When we say off the record we mean it; we often touch on sensitive issues and hard to talk about topics. The topics discussed in today’s episode are racism, prejudice, inequality and change. Please listen responsibly and find a list of resources and links below:MIND mental health - www.mi...
2023-10-0543 min
Off Record, On Point by The Digital VoiceThe Equality Emergency with Sumran Kaul, Brand Metrics & MEFAFor episode 2 of season 2, Julia and Kasey get candid with Sumran Kaul, Client Lead at Brand Metrics and mentor for MEFA, about the state of equality and diversity in the media industry, how he would grade it and what needs to change in 2024... Disclaimer: When we say off the record we mean it; we often touch on sensitive issues and hard to talk about topics. The topics discussed in today’s episode are racism, prejudice, inequality and change. Please listen responsibly and find a list of resources and links below:MIND mental health - www.mi...
2023-10-0543 minThe MEFA PodcastHow At The Core Helps Students Make Plans for the FutureHost 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.
2023-10-0340 minThe MEFA PodcastHow to Use ABLE Accounts to SaveHost Jonathan Hughes first talks to co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about an online panel she moderated in conjunction with MEFA’s ongoing campaign The Time is Now. Then, they answer a question from the MEFA Mailbag, and finally, Jonathan talks with Adam Hartwell about Attainable, the ABLE Savings Plan.
2023-08-2242 min
大抓周聯絡簿EP148【科科有意思｜幼兒教育】「讓孩子從已知經驗建立與未知學習的連結」，幼兒的數位學習也能這樣做！ ft. MEFA 蒙特梭利教育發展學會🧙♂️ 支持《哈囉！時間的魔法師》🕒 第1套用孩子的視角、認識時間秩序的蒙特梭利文化寶盒！ ----------- 在這一集中，我們邀請到蒙特梭利教育發展學會（MEFA）品牌總監 Michael，跟宇辰一起聊聊幼兒教育的趨勢與挑戰：「蒙特梭利」的內涵與精神是什麼？如何驗證蒙特梭利教學法的成效？幼兒適合用數位工具輔助學習嗎？蒙特梭利教育現場怎麼實行數位學習、STEAM 教育？幼教業者怎麼看待公幼延長照顧措施？ 本集節目中所談及的新聞及文章如下：Montessori: The world's most influential school?（2023.02.01 BBC Future）各國不再禁幼兒用手機！幼教也要教數位力，善用數位學習（2023.04.25 翻轉教育）公幼延長照顧遭指壓榨教保員 教部：有外聘彈性（2023.07.20 中央通訊社） ----------- 💬留言告訴我你對這一集的想法：https://open.firstory.me/user/cky17bewh96660925jm3ixrt3/comments 💙加入「聊聊教育吧」FB 社群>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/687468438453829 🤝🏻合作邀約>> school@taiwanbar.cc 💰 臺灣吧商城>> https://shop.taiwanbar.cc/ Powered by Firstory Hosting
2023-08-1537 minThe MEFA PodcastThe Time is Now: How to Make a Plan for after High SchoolHost Jonathan Hughes first talks to the Director of MEFA Pathway, Jennifer Bento-Pinyoun. Then, Jonathan and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna discuss MEFA’s The Time is Now campaign. Finally, Jonathan has a discussion with the new Director of GEAR UP in Worcester, Steve Winston.
2023-08-0837 minThe MEFA PodcastHow GEAR UP Helps Students Stay on Track for Postsecondary SuccessHost Jonathan Hughes talks with Julie Shields-Rutyna about FAFSA Simplification. Then Jonathan and Julie go to the MEFA Mailbag to answer a question about using the UFund to pay for college. Finally, Jonathan has a conversation with Director of the Massachusetts GEAR UP Program, Robert Dais.
2023-07-2544 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat Rising HS Seniors Can Do Over the Summer to Plan for CollegeEpisode #49. Host Jonathan Hughes first answers a question from the MEFA Mailbag about private student loans. Then Jonathan sits down with Sherri Geller, the Co-Director of College Counseling at Gann Academy in Waltham, Massachusetts.
2023-06-2730 minThe MEFA PodcastFAFSA SimplificationEpisode #48. Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna first discuss MEFA’s prepaid tuition program, the U.Plan. Then, they go to the MEFA Mailbag and answer a question about letters of recommendation. Finally, Jonathan and Julie talk to Jill Desjean of NASFAA and Philip Levine of Wellesley College and the Brookings Institution about FAFSA Simplification, including the adjustments to the form, the changes in terminology, and what families can expect when the FAFSA is available in D
2023-06-0641 minThe MEFA PodcastHow Veterans Upward Bound Helps Vets Succeed in CollegeEpisode #47. Host Jonathan Hughes and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna first interview Community Outreach Manager for MEFA Savings Programs, Adam Hartwell, about 529 Day and the Attainable® Savings Plan. Then they go to the MEFA Mailbag to discuss financial aid and early decision. Finally, Jonathan talks with the Program Director of Veterans Upward Bound at Suffolk University, Nick Charrette. They discuss the program, their new tutoring aspect, as well as Nick’s journey with college
2023-05-2333 minThe MEFA PodcastHow to Receive a Discount on Out-of-State Tuition in New EnglandEpisode #46. Host Jonathan Hughes discusses student loan repayment for graduating college students with co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna. They then dive into the MEFA Mailbag and answer a question about to how to get a student motivated about the college process. Finally, Jonathan talks with Jonathan Gowin, Director of Tuition Break, about the New England Board of Higher Education’s Tuition Break program that allows New England residents to receive a discount on tuition if they attend an out-of-st
2023-05-0938 minThe MEFA PodcastFinancial Aid and Undocumented StudentsEpisode #44. Host Jonathan Hughes talks with Andover High School Principal Alicia Linsey and Director of Admissions at Worcester State University Joe DiCarlo about the National Association of College Admissions and Counseling and their Boston College Fair. Then Jonathan and co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna go to the MEFA Mailbag and answer a financial aid question about students who have worked with the Department of Children and Families. Finally, Jonathan has a conversation with Director of Colleg
2023-04-1146 min
McNamaraOnMoneyFinancial Award Letters with Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA - Part 2 of 2This week join Justin McNamara and his guest Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA for a discussion on Financial Award Letters and how they fit into your financial planning for college.
Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees.
Julie Shields-Rutyna is the Director of College Planning, Education, and Training at MEFA. Julie joined MEFA in 2007 and in her role provides expertise related to planning, saving, and paying for college to families, colleges, and other organizations. Prior to joining MEFA, J...
2023-03-2742 minMcNamaraOnMoneyFinancial Award Letters with Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA - Part 1 of 2This week join Justin McNamara and his guest Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA for a discussion on Financial Award Letters and how they fit into your financial planning for college.
Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees.
Julie Shields-Rutyna is the Director of College Planning, Education, and Training at MEFA. Julie joined MEFA in 2007 and in her role provides expertise related to planning, saving, and paying for college to families, colleges, and other organizations. Prior to joining MEFA, J...
2023-03-2742 minThe MEFA PodcastMassEdCO’s Services and ToolsEpisode #42. Host Jonathan Hughes discusses MEFA’s How to Pay for College campaign with co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna, including the webinars, seminars, tools, and guidance that MEFA is offering this upcoming spring for high school seniors and their families. Then they go to the MEFA Mailbag to discuss how to report properties and income on the FAFSA. Jonathan then talks to the CEO of MassEdCO, Mark Bilotta, about the services and tools MassEdCO offers as well as Mark’s career in financial aid and financial literacy.
2023-03-1435 minThe MEFA PodcastThe Common AppEpisode #41. Hosts Jonathan Hughes and Julie Shields-Rutyna discuss recent scholarship opportunities with MEFA’s own Lauren Danz. Then, they go to the MEFA Mailbag and answer a question about grandparents opening MEFA U.Plan and U.Fund college savings accounts. Finally, Jonathan talks to Director of Education and Training at the Common App Meredith Lombardi about the basics of the Common App, how to navigate it, who can use it, and all its different functions.
2023-02-2831 minThe MEFA PodcastWelcome to the MEFA PodcastWelcome to the MEFA Podcast, where you'll find conversations with experts about every step of planning, saving, and paying for college and reaching financial goals. Listen to every episode wherever you get your podcasts.
2023-02-1601 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat to Know about College AthleticsEpisode #40. Hosts Jonathan Hughes and Julie Shields-Rutyna discuss college campus visits. Then they answer a MEFA Mailbag question about making corrections on your FAFSA. Finally, Jonathan sits down with Old Rochester Regional High School Counselor Dr. Mike Janicki to discuss college athletics including the different associations and divisions, who gets scholarships, interactions with coaches, the athlete’s college application process, maintaining eligibility, and more.
2023-02-1442 minThe MEFA Podcast5 Secrets to Finding the Right CollegeEpisode #39. Host Jonathan Hughes talks with co-host Julie Shields Rutyna and MEFA Pathway Director Jennifer Bento-Pinyoun about how students can use MEFA Pathway’s College Search and Career Search features to create a postsecondary plan. Then, they go into the MEFA Mailbag to answer a listener’s question about reporting income on the CSS Profile. Finally, Jonathan talks to Drew Carter, Deputy Director of Admission at College of the Holy Cross, about five secrets to finding the right college, including embracing the unknown and being open to exposure.
2023-01-2438 minMcNamaraOnMoneyPlanning And Saving for College with Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA - Part 2 of 2This week join Justin McNamara and his guest Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA for a discussion on Planning and Saving for College.
Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees.
Julie Shields-Rutyna is the Director of College Planning, Education, and Training at MEFA. Julie joined MEFA in 2007 and in her role provides expertise related to planning, saving, and paying for college to families, colleges, and other organizations. Prior to joining MEFA, Julie worked for the College Board, Nellie Mae, a...
2023-01-0944 minMcNamaraOnMoneyPlanning And Saving for College with Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA - Part 1 of 2This week join Justin McNamara and his guest Julie Shelds-Rutyna of MEFA for a discussion on Planning and Saving for College.
Justin McNamara, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner with passion for investment strategy and selection. Works with small businesses and owners, parents of college-bound kids, job changers, pre- and post-retirees.
Julie Shields-Rutyna is the Director of College Planning, Education, and Training at MEFA. Julie joined MEFA in 2007 and in her role provides expertise related to planning, saving, and paying for college to families, colleges, and other organizations. Prior to joining MEFA, Julie worked for the College Board, Nellie Mae, a...
2023-01-0943 min
TheosU MemesMEFA: Make Everett Fun AgainThe boys are back from Vegas and it's the last pod of the year:
The craziest story the guys heard in 2022 (1:15)
The guys shares their best and worst day of 2022 (4:47)
MEFA: Make Everett Fun Again (16:25)
Vegas Trip for Nathan’s 40th recap (17:45)
MEFAA - Make Everett Fun Again Again (32:20)
Meme review & Best Comment Wins (36:32)
Everett’s Mailbag (46:30)
Watch the WORST CHRISTMAS SPECIAL FOR FREE: (https://my.theosu.ca/programs/worst-christmas-special-stream)-------Watch the Post Show For FREE here (https://my.theosu.ca/programs/theosu-memes-podcast?categoryId=125272&permalink=episode5postshow)
CCC Crin...
2022-12-2749 minThe MEFA PodcastFinancial Aid for Graduate StudentsEpisode #37. Host Jonathan Hughes first talks with co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about students applying for private student loans for the spring semester. Then, they go into the MEFA Mailbag to answer a question about study abroad. Finally, Jonathan talks to Director of College Relations at MEFA Shawn Morrissey about financial aid for graduate students.
2022-12-2027 minThe MEFA PodcastReturning to College as an AdultEpisode #36. ***Please note that some details about the FAFSA in this episode are now outdated. Please reference mefa.org for updated information.*** Host Jonathan Hughes first talks to his co-host Julie Shields-Rutyna about the financial aid season. They discuss filing the FAFSA and CSS Profile as well how MEFA and other organizations can help families with that process. Then, they dive into the MEFA Mailbag to talk about a guardianship question related to financial aid. Finally, Jonathan talks to his wife, Cathy Hughes, who finished her college degree later in her life.
2022-12-0630 min
#buchcooltourBuchbeschreibung "The Passport of Mister Nice - Mefa Dämgen - Markus Böker Buchbeschreibung "The Passport of Mister Nice - Mefa Dämgen - Markus Böker
Auf Apple:
https://apple.co/3fImmXg
Auf Spotify:
https://spoti.fi/3SMs2y5
Auf AUDIBLE:
https://adbl.co/3CK91XA
2022-11-1605 min
#buchcooltour#024 "Time Out" - Mefa Dämgen - Markus Böker Buchbeschreibung "Time Out" - Mefa Dämgen - Markus Böker
„Time out“ – Wie ein harmloser Arztbesuch zur Katastrophe wurde…
Alles begann mit einer Routineuntersuchung und endete mit der lebensbedrohlichen Diagnose »LEUKÄMIE«. Von Hundert auf null! Plötzlich wird das bisheriges Leben auf den Kopf gestellt.
Ein Perspektivenlǝsɥɔǝʍ zwischen „Traum und Alptraum“ fand statt. Der Autor Mefa Dämgen schildert, wie seine Welt zerbrach…
Etwa 14.000 Menschen in Deutschland erkranken jährlich an Leukämie. Zwei Prozent der Betroffenen verlieren den Kampf gegen die Krankheit.
ÜBERALL IM STATIONÄREN BUCHHANDEL und...
2022-10-2905 minThe MEFA PodcastFiling Financial Aid Forms with Divorced or Separated ParentsEpisode #9. ***Please note that some details about the FAFSA in this episode are now outdated. Please reference mefa.org for updated information.*** Host Jonathan Hughes breaks down how to complete these forms, including maintaining confidentiality between parents, which parent completes the forms, how to determine the custodial parent, and how to keep the financial aid office involved. Jonathan is joined by Susan Beard of Wheaton College. If you enjoy the MEFA Podcast, please leave us a review
2022-10-0442 minThe MEFA PodcastManaging College LifeEpisode #34. The college experience can feel daunting for new and current students. Host Jonathan Hughes speaks with MEFA Pathway Coordinator Ajea Stupart about how to manage your college life. Ajea breaks down her blog series on the topic as well as some of her favorite features from MEFA’s college and career readiness tool, MEFA Pathway. Jonathan is also joined by Julie Shields-Rutyna, MEFA’s Director of College Planning. They discuss the parent side of students adjusting to college life as well as the financial side of paying for college. They also, as always, answer a question from the MEFA...
2022-09-1238 min
#buchcooltour#014 Buchbeschreibung "Das Leiden der Anderen" - Mefa Dämgen - Markus Böker#014 Das Leiden der Anderen - Mefa Dämgen - Markus Böker
Reality Thriller. Realität und Fiktion Dieses Buch basiert auf einer wahrenBegebenheit mit einem dokumentarischen Hintergrund. Wenn Wahrnehmung, Denken, Fühlen, Verhalten oder soziale Beziehungen krankhaft beeinträchtigt sind, brauchen Betroffene unbedingt Hilfe. Sie sind gefangen und beeinflusst von Gefühlen.
Auf den folgenden Seiten stellt sich eine Geschichte dar, die sich in jedem Haushalt genau so abspielen könnte.Die inszenierten Handlungen und Aussagen der dargestellten Personen basieren auf Recherchen, wie sich die Dinge abgespielt haben (könnten).
Inspiriert von dieser wah...
2022-09-0905 minThe MEFA PodcastCollege ScholarshipsEpisode #33. Join co-hosts Jonathan Hughes and Julie Shields-Rutyna as they discuss features of mefa.org, including how to sign up for MEFA emails and where to find the MEFA blog post and webinars about financial aid, as well as all of the different services MEFA has to offer. Then they talk to MEFA’s Digital Creative Content Manager, Lauren Patten, about college scholarships, including how to apply for them, where to find them, and strategies for using them.
2022-08-3016 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat If College Is Not the Right Fit for You?Episode #29. Each student has a different track in the post-high school journey. Recently, a parent wrote to us asking for advice for her daughter in college, who isn’t sure she is on the right path. In this episode, host Jonathan Hughes speaks with Jan Combs of Bright Horizons College Coach to address this situation and others that may come up for students deciding what to do after high school. Also in this episode, Julie Shields-Rutyna, MEFA’s Director of College Planning, joins Jonathan to talk about the Federal Student Loan Repayment pause. Finally, in the MEFA Mailbag, Julie answ...
2022-07-0538 minThe MEFA PodcastPenny Forward and the Attainable Savings PlanEpisode #27. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by Chris Peterson, Founder and Director of Penny Forward, who discusses growing up with a disability, how he got involved in the personal finance community, and how people with disabilities can save for expenses and plan for the future with ABLE accounts. Jonathan is also joined by MEFA’s Director of College Planning, Education, and Training, Julie Shields-Rutyna, and Attainable expert Mary Rubenis, who discuss what Attainable accounts are and the benefits of saving in one.
2022-05-2338 minThe MEFA PodcastHow Do Private Student Loans Work?Episode #25. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by MEFA’s in-house loan product experts, Frank Cavanaugh and Meg Villavicencio, and MEFA’s Director of College Planning, Education, and Training, Julie Shields-Rutyna. Frank and Meg discuss private student loans, including when families can start applying, what determines if applicants are approved, what kind of rates and terms they may qualify for, and how to compare loan options. Jonathan and Julie answer listeners’ questions about assets on the FAFSA and discuss steps a student needs to take after depositing at a college.
2022-05-0332 minThe MEFA PodcastHow to Pay Your College BillEpisode #24. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by Apelila Joseph, MEFA Pathway Program Manager, who discusses how Grade 12 students and their families can make a plan to pay their college bill, including the use of savings, payment plans and student loans, and how to be a wise borrower if they do borrow student loans.
2022-03-1044 minThe MEFA PodcastWhat Can You Expect to See in a Financial Aid Offer?Episode #23. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by Stephanie Wells, Director of College Relations for MEFA, who discusses what Grade 12 students and their families can expect to see on financial aid offers, including grants, scholarships, and work-study, and what the difference is between each type of loan that may be listed on a financial aid offer.
2022-02-1139 minThe MEFA PodcastHow to Increase Your Savings with College GiftingEpisode #21. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by Shaun Connolly, Communications Associate at MEFA, who discusses how he opened a U.Fund 529 College Investing Plan account for his son, how he saves for college, and how he created a college gifting page to encourage friends and family members to contribute to his college savings account.
2021-12-2124 min
#buchcooltour#006 Das Leiden der Anderen - Mefa Dämgen - Reality Thriller.#006 Das Leiden der Anderen - Mefa Dämgen - Reality Thriller. Realität und Fiktion Dieses Buch basiert auf einer wahrenBegebenheit mit einem dokumentarischen Hintergrund. Wenn Wahrnehmung, Denken, Fühlen, Verhalten oder soziale Beziehungen krankhaft beeinträchtigt sind, brauchen Betroffene unbedingt Hilfe. Sie sind gefangen und beeinflusst von Gefühlen.
Auf den folgenden Seiten stellt sich eine Geschichte dar, die sich in jedem Haushalt genau so abspielen könnte.Die inszenierten Handlungen und Aussagen der dargestellten Personen basieren auf Recherchen, wie sich die Dinge abgespielt haben (könnten).
Inspiriert von dieser wahren Begebenheit, wurde die Geschichte...
2021-12-1410 minThe MEFA PodcastHow to Use MEFA Pathway with StudentsEpisode #19. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by Jennifer Bento-Pinyoun, Director of MEFA Pathway at MEFA, who explains how students and counselors can utilize MEFA Pathway, and Cheryl Nelson, Counselor in the Lunenburg School District, who explains how she uses the platform with her eighth and ninth grade students.
2021-09-2838 minThe MEFA PodcastHow Students with Disabilities Can Save for Expenses and Prepare for CollegeEpisode #18. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by Mary Rubenis, Outreach Manager of Attainable at MEFA, who explains how individuals with disabilities can save for qualified expenses in an Attainable account, and Sarah Lazare, Director of the Banacos Academic Center at Westfield State University, who explains how students with disabilities can prepare for college success.
2021-09-0944 minThe MEFA PodcastHow to Select the Best College Loan for Your FamilyEpisode #17. Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by Stephanie Wells, Director of College Relations at MEFA, who explains how to compare college loan options, including the differences between Federal Direct Student Loans, the PLUS Loan, and private loans, as well as paying the college bill through a combination of past, present, and future income.
2021-07-1630 minThe MEFA PodcastTips on Paying for College CostsEpisode #12. PLEASE NOTE: This podcast was recorded in 2021. As of 2022, this program has been renamed from After the College Acceptance to How to Pay for College: A Guide for High School Seniors and Families. MEFA's Associate Director of College Planning and Content Creation Jonathan Hughes explains how MEFA’s How to Pay for College: A Guide for High School Seniors and Families campaign will help you with understanding financial aid offers, making the college decision, and paying the college bill.
2021-03-1233 minThe MEFA PodcastMassTransferEpisode #11. MEFA's Associate Director of College Planning Jonathan Hughes explains how MassTransfer guarantees transfer admission from an associate to a bachelor's degree program and the powerful savings it offers for students and their families. Jonathan is joined by Mark Broadbent of Holyoke Community College and Liuginsa Rosa, student at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
2021-03-0225 min