Thursday Trending: Growth-Focused FAFSA & Admissions Strategy 🎓
- Shelly Rufin
- Apr 1
- 5 min read

By Shelly Rufin, MSHS
Educational Consultant
Harvard Business School
EDFIN College Planning
Serving families for three-decades
Certified WASFAA, NASFAA Title IV Funding

🎉 Celebrate our journey with us as we reflect on 33 years of empowering students to achieve their college dreams!
From conquering FAFSA like pros to guiding students to their perfect college fit, our expert team has been on the frontlines of college planning since 1990.
Get inspired by amazing student success stories and discover the secrets to college admissions and financial aid success, straight from our experienced consultants.
Don't miss out on this exciting trip down memory lane as we revisit the milestones and lessons that have shaped our passion for helping students like you!
Q: What does a Throwback Thursday email celebrating 33 years of FAFSA and college planning expertise include?
A: In this email, you'll find a look back at our humble beginnings, inspirational success stories of students achieving their college dreams, and valuable lessons learned from over three decades of experience in college planning and financial aid.
Q: Can you share an example of a student who secured their dream college acceptance with your help?
A: Absolutely! Julio dreamed of attending an Ivy League university but was worried about the competitive admissions process. Our team helped him create a compelling application strategy that highlighted his unique strengths and passions. Today, Julio is a proud student at his dream school, MIT.
Q: Can you provide an example of how you've helped a student maximize financial aid?
A: Certainly! Sabrina's family's financial situation limited her college choices, so she sought our guidance. Our 33-year FAFSA expert navigated the financial aid process on her behalf, securing grants and scholarships that covered all her college expenses, providing her with a full ride. Sabrina is now pursuing her pre-med dreams at UC Davis without the burden of excessive student loans.
Q: How do you assist students in finding the perfect college fit?
A: We understand that each student has unique interests, strengths, and career aspirations. Our college consultants take the time to learn about each student and create a customized list of colleges that cater to their needs. Megan, for example, thrives at a small liberal arts college that offers the personalized learning experience she desired.
Q: What have you learned about the importance of an early start in college planning?
A: Starting early allows students more time to research options, improve their academic profile, and secure financial aid. This proactive approach increases their chances of acceptance and enables them to find the ideal college fit.
Q: Why is focusing on fit important when selecting a college?
A: A student's success depends on finding the right college "fit," which includes factors like academic programs, campus culture, and location. By evaluating these aspects, students can determine whether a college aligns with their needs and goals.
Q: How does personalizing applications improve a student's chances of acceptance?
A: In our experience, admissions officers appreciate applications that showcase an applicant's unique strengths, experiences, and passions. By helping students create authentic and compelling applications, we've found that their chances of acceptance significantly improve.
Join the conversation using #TBT #CollegePlanningExpertise #FAFSAPros #33YearsStrong #DreamCollege #CollegeAdmissions #FinancialAid #StudentSuccess and share your own college planning stories with us! 🌟
Benefits of EDFIN's Comprehensive One-on-One College Planning:
1. Individualized Attention: EDFIN provides personalized guidance tailored to each student's unique strengths, aspirations, and circumstances.
2. Expert Insights: Experienced consultants share insider knowledge, proven strategies, and valuable resources to optimize college planning outcomes.
3. Customized Roadmaps: Our comprehensive plans cover all aspects of the college journey, from school selection to financial aid and everything in between.
4. Ongoing Support: EDFIN remains a dedicated partner throughout the entire process, offering encouragement, advice, and adjustments as needed.
5. Collaborative Approach: Our consultants work closely with both students and parents, fostering open communication and teamwork to achieve shared goals.
Take inspiration from these success stories and discover the transformative benefits of EDFIN's individualized college planning approach.
With our expert guidance, you'll confidently navigate the path to your ideal college destination. Contact us today to begin your journey!

Zarina A.
Five Star Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As a senior in high school, Shelly has lifted a lot of the weight off my shoulders by helping me with financial aid, guiding me through the steps of applying to colleges, and much more even while having a busy schedule and helping many other students.
Shelly Rufin
Thank you Rina for your feedback and review today! We will be following up with regarding student portals each week... View full review

Jacki M.
Five Star Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shelly is amazing. I had no clue what to do to help my daughter prepare for college. She did everything for us begging to end. Next step she will be helping with my daughters medical school.
Shelly Rufin,
Thank you for your review. We appreciate you! Shelly Rufin, College Prep Consultant and the EDFIN College Prep Team
Reply to this email or apply online at https://www.edfin.net/contact to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a smoother college planning experience for you and your child.
Why EDFIN?
At EDFIN, we don't just prepare students for college; we sculpt their future. With a distinguished legacy spanning over three decades and a proven track record of guiding over 3,000 students, we have honed our expertise to an art form. We recognize the complexity of the college admissions process and the financial intricacies surrounding it, and we are committed to transforming this challenge into an opportunity for your family.
Get started immediately with a FREE Cost Analysis! Link here to consultation online https://www.edfin.net/contact.
Why Start Now?
The clock is ticking, and admissions & financial aid deadlines approach with unwavering speed. The sooner you engage with EDFIN, the more time we have to meticulously prepare your teenager for the journey ahead, ensuring they emerge as a well-rounded, competitive applicant.
Get started immediately with a FREE Cost Analysis! https://www.edfin.net/contact.

Your Next Step:
Are you eager to embark on your college-bound teen's path to the best-fit college admissions? Would you like to explore a FREE Discovery call (20 minutes) to understand how EDFIN can transform your teenager's dreams into a reality?
If your answer is a resounding YES, don't hesitate. Reach out to us NOW at (951) 261-9799 or apply online at https://www.edfin.net/contact.
CALL NOW! ASK HOW! (951) 261-9799 or apply online at https://www.edfin.net/contact or click the link below.
Success Story No. 3
Emily Murphy Shelly is so helpful and knowledgeable about everything college and just all-around fun to hang out with. If you're looking for help anything college Shelly will 100 percent have all the answers. Will be using her throughout my college career. Read more at EDFIN College Planning, College Prep at Google Reviews.
CALL NOW! ASK HOW! (951) 261-9799 or apply online at https://www.edfin.net/contact or click the link below.
Prefer in person or online? FREE Discovery 45 minutes in person session at (951) 261-9799 or online at www.edfin.net/contact
Shelly Rufin, MSHS, MSCC, Dr (Hn)
Founder/Owner EDFIN College Planning Harvard Business School
As a parent, like many of you, navigating college admissions and paying for college can be frustrating. Link to bio
As a prior Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships for fifteen years, with an expertise in Federal & State Regulations, strategic analysis, marketing, and as a college career professional over 31 years serving 3,000 plus students; one-on-one sessions guiding students and families with information and tools **** to make smarter financial college decisions. . . . click link to read full bio.
CALL NOW! ASK HOW! (951) 261-9799 or apply online at https://www.edfin.net/contact or click the link below.
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