The MEFA Podcast MEFA

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 Quinsigamond Community College

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.