Unlocking Scholarship Opportunities: Strategies for Success

A Free Webinar for Families Looking to Make College More Affordable

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 @ 6:30 PM

Take the Stress Out of Paying for College

With tuition costs rising and competition for aid intensifying, navigating the scholarship and financial aid landscape can feel overwhelming. In this empowering, information-packed webinar, Ann LaFemina—a seasoned college admissions and financial aid expert—will give families the strategic tools they need to find, apply for, and win scholarships that significantly reduce college costs.

Whether you're just starting your search or looking to refine your scholarship strategy, this webinar will help you unlock meaningful financial opportunities and approach the process with confidence.

What You'll Learn

In just one session, you’ll gain practical strategies to:

  • Discover scholarships at the local, national, and college level

  • Avoid common scams and wasted time

  • Strengthen your applications with standout essays, résumés, and recommendation letters

  • Use FAFSA, CSS Profile, and Net Price Calculators to your advantage

  • Stay on track with timelines and checklists that keep your process organized

  • Maximize your eligibility for merit aid based on academics, talents, and intended majors

  • Understand national programs like National Merit and how they impact aid

  • Learn the importance of thank-you notes and how to make a lasting impression

Who Should Attend?

  • High school students (grades 9–12) and their families

  • Anyone concerned about the rising cost of college

  • Students aiming to attend college with minimal debt

  • Families seeking merit-based aid, scholarships, or financial planning tips

Reserve Your Spot Today!

Seats are limited! Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert insights that could save your family thousands on college expenses.

Reserve Your Spot:

Ann LaFemina is a seasoned educator and college admissions consultant with a rich background in supporting college-bound students. Starting her career in Long Island, New York, she initially assisted students and families navigate the college admissions process, later enhancing her role by teaching future educators as an adjunct professor. Moving to southwestern Florida in 2008, Ann founded a private consulting practice, specializing in guiding students through college admissions, particularly those in visual and performing arts. Her experience spans working with creative students in Sarasota and Manatee County high schools to directing a college counseling program at Cardinal Mooney High School, where she was celebrated for her dedication with The Outstanding Service Award in 2022. Ann's commitment to staying abreast of the evolving requirements for university admissions has led to hundreds of students successfully presenting their unique selves to colleges. A passionate professional, Ann is also active in mentorship roles and has been featured on the College Scoops podcast. She is thrilled to leverage her strategic, innovative counseling expertise to support JRA client families in making pivotal educational decisions.

Ellen Valladares is a seasoned college essay coach and award-winning author with a passion for storytelling and over 30 years of professional writing experience. With a Journalism degree from the University of Florida, her career spans roles as an editor, public relations professional, and author of notable works including "Crossing the Line" and "Filbert the Lonely Flamingo." Ellen's journey into college admissions began with her own family's experience, leading her to join Score at the Top as an Essay Expert in 2019. Her approach to coaching is deeply personal, focusing on uncovering each student's unique story to craft compelling essays. Ellen's effective guidance has helped students gain admission to top universities such as Duke, Cornell, and Vanderbilt. Residing in Weston with her husband and two sons, Ellen is dedicated to assisting students in presenting their best selves through the college application process.

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