Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of "Battle the Business," hosted by Dean Van Dyke. I'm thrilled to share my conversation with Dr. Kuni Beasley, a distinguished figure in the realm of college preparation. Dr. Beasley's journey, from his roots in a military family to becoming a pivotal educator and counselor, is not just inspiring but also packed with practical wisdom for students and parents navigating the complex world of college admissions and scholarships.

Key Takeaways

1. Early Preparation is Crucial: Start planning for college as early as ninth grade to maximize opportunities and scholarships.
2. Understanding Scholarship Strategies: Target schools known for offering scholarships and understand the criteria for each.
3. Military Pathways: Explore options like the Hazelwood Act and ROTC scholarships for substantial educational benefits.
4. Debunking Myths: Challenge common misconceptions about college admissions and financing.
5. Leveraging Resources: Utilize various financial strategies and resources to minimize or eliminate college debt.

Quotes

1. "Our job is to provide our clients with the greatest range of options, choices, and opportunities for college."
2. "Start early, you need to get things done early, you need to start testing early."
3. "No one makes too much money to not file the FAFSA."

Resources

• Beasley College Prep: A comprehensive college preparation program offering personalized guidance on college admissions and scholarship strategies.
• FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, a critical step in securing financial aid for college.
• Hazelwood Act: A Texas-specific program offering educational benefits to veterans and their dependents.

Personal Advice

As someone deeply invested in education, I believe that understanding the system and starting early are the keys to success. Don't wait until senior year to think about college. Build a strong academic and extracurricular profile, and actively seek out scholarship opportunities. Remember, the path to college is not just about getting in, but also about managing it financially in a smart and sustainable way.

FAQ

1. When should I start preparing for college? Start by the first day of your ninth grade.
2. How important are test scores for scholarships? They are crucial for competitive scholarships and admissions.
3. Can military service help with college funding? Programs like the Hazelwood Act and ROTC provide significant benefits.
4. Should everyone go to college? Not necessarily. Consider individual goals and alternatives like trade schools or military service.
5. What's a common misconception about college admissions? That it's too late to start in senior year – starting early is key.

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