EP 170
Dream School to Debt-Free: The College Planning Playbook with Shellee Howard
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Inside This Episode
In this episode of The Above Board Podcast, John talks with Shellee Howard, college planning expert, founder of College Ready, and author of How to Send Your Student to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money. Shellee shares how families can navigate the college process with confidence by finding the right school, minimizing debt, and making smart decisions from start to finish. Whether your student is a freshman or a senior, this conversation will help you plan with purpose and peace of mind.
- Learn more at www.collegereadyplan.com
- Get Shellee’s book: How To Send Your Student To College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money
Three Biggest Insights
- Start Early: Why College Planning Should Begin Sooner Than You Think
- The Real Cost of “Dream Schools” and How to Plan Strategically
- Balancing Emotion and Logic in College Decisions
Key Takeaways
- Start Before Senior Year: The earlier you begin the college process, the more options, and scholarships, you’ll have.
- Know What You Can Afford: Understanding your family’s financial picture helps prevent long-term debt.
- Don’t Chase Prestige: The “best” school is the one that fits your student’s goals, strengths, and budget.
- Encourage Independence: Let your student take ownership of the process, it builds confidence and responsibility.
- Plan with Both Heart and Head: It’s okay to dream big, but back it up with strategy and financial awareness.