By Dr. Jessica Henlon | Education Contributor for Florida National News

On January 7, 2026, Valencia College and Lift Orlando announced the launch of the Lift Scholars program, offering full tuition and fee coverage at Valencia for every graduate of Jones High School’s Class of 2026 through 2029. Whether pursuing an associate degree or short-term technical certificate, students will now have the opportunity to earn credentials without the burden of tuition.

Lift Orlando CEO Eddy Moratin called the initiative a commitment to removing obstacles: “Cost should never stand in the way of a student’s future” (Valencia College, 2026). Valencia President, Dr. Kathleen Plinske, noted that the program builds on the success of Osceola County’s Prosper initiative and affirmed that “the lives of hundreds of Jones students and their families will be transformed by today’s news” (Valencia College, 2026). Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez described the scholarship as “an extraordinary gift” that “opens doors” for students who might have otherwise seen college as out of reach (Valencia College, 2026).

The announcement was met with tears, cheers, and celebration. Perhaps no moment captured the joy more vividly than when OCPS District 5 Board member and Jones High alumna Vicki-Elaine Felder took the mic, pointing to students proclaiming: “You get a scholarship, and you get a scholarship!” On social media, she shared her pride with fellow alumni, calling the news a “wonderful opportunity for my Alma Mater JHS🧡💚🐅🎉🥳🙌🏾.”

Building on Proven Promise Programs

The Lift Scholars model joins a national movement of place-based Promise scholarships. Since Michigan’s Kalamazoo Promise launched in 2005, more than 400 similar programs have emerged nationwide. These scholarships have shown powerful results: Bartik et al. (2021) found recipients were significantly more likely to enroll in and complete college compared to similar students without aid.

Closer to home, Osceola County’s Prosper program has enrolled over 10,000 students since its launch in 2022 and helped more than 1,100 earn associate degrees through Valencia (Mead, 2025). The initiative raised Osceola’s college-going rate from one of Florida’s lowest to among its highest, a compelling model for Lift Scholars’ potential (Valencia College, 2026).

Cost Is Still the Biggest Barrier

Research consistently affirms that financial strain is the top barrier to college enrollment. A Gallup–Lumina Foundation survey found that 85% of adults who never enrolled or who left college early cited tuition and fees as a major factor (Carrasco, 2024). Removing those costs measurably boosts participation.

Even modest scholarship programs have demonstrated impact. A multi-state study by Mayer et al. (2015) showed that performance-based aid increased both persistence and five-year graduation rates. More recently, Berlanga and Corti (2025) found that scholarship recipients earned higher GPAs and graduated at significantly greater rates than peers.

A Personal Lens: Support Must Follow Access

My doctoral research explored how financial support, when paired with meaningful engagement, drives student persistence. I interviewed first-generation online learners who described how virtual co-curricular experiences boosted their motivation, belonging, and academic follow-through (Henlon, 2025). Financial access opens the door, but relationships, visibility, and mentorship sustain the journey.

A Gift That Multiplies

For Jones High families, this is more than a scholarship. It’s a public affirmation that their children’s futures matter. It’s also a community investment with long-term dividends. As Dr. Vazquez noted, this program will empower students “to pursue their goals with confidence” (Valencia College, 2026).

When students are relieved of tuition burdens, they gain freedom to explore careers in healthcare, logistics, education, or advanced manufacturing. To dream, to plan, and to persist. And when communities like Orlando come together to send a bold message of hope, everyone benefits.

About the Author: Dr. Jessica Henlon holds a Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Education. She is an Education Contributor for Florida National News. Dr. Henlon can be reached at Education@FloridaNationalNews.com or book.jessicahenlon@gmail.com.

By Dr. Jessica Henlon | Education Contributor for Florida National News

Part 2: Amplifying the Value of Your College Experience

Entering college is an exciting new chapter, but it’s also an investment – of time, effort, and money. After tackling financial aid and making an informed college choice in Part 1, the next step is ensuring you get the greatest return on that investment. This means engaging in your career development, finding mentorship, and pursuing skill-building experiences from day one. These steps not only enhance your résumé but also build your confidence and connections for life after graduation. In this article, we explore how first-generation and online students (indeed, all students) can proactively make the most of college to set up a bright future.

Learning Beyond the Classroom: Start Early on Career Development

Classroom learning is just one part of your college education. Equally important is learning beyond the classroom. This includes internships, part-time jobs, campus leadership, and other hands-on experiences that prepare you for the workforce. Research consistently shows that students who participate in experiential learning reap big benefits. For example, a recent survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that students with a paid internship receive more job offers and higher starting salaries than those without internship experience (Kahn & Patil, 2025). In fact, engaging in at least one work-based learning opportunity during college is linked to better career progress and higher early-career satisfaction (Strada Education Network, 2024).

Unfortunately, not every student has equal access to these opportunities. First-generation college students and those balancing jobs or family responsibilities can find it harder to take on unpaid internships or extra activities (Business-Higher Education Forum, 2024). If you’re in this situation, know that you are not alone, and your college likely has resources to help. Career centers, for instance, exist to connect students with internships, co-ops, and networking events. Many campuses also offer work-study positions or internships that provide flexibility. By starting early (even in your first year) and using these resources, you can secure experiences that make you more competitive and confident.

Consider these steps to jump-start your career development:

• Visit the career center in your first semester: Get to know the advisors who can help polish your résumé, practice interviews, and alert you to internship postings.

• Seek out internships or research projects: Even short-term or part-time experiences build skills and help you explore your interests. If an off-campus internship is challenging due to time or travel, look for on-campus jobs or virtual internship programs related to your field.

• Attend job fairs and networking events: Take advantage of any employer visits, virtual career fairs, or industry panels your college offers. Introduce yourself and ask questions; each conversation can be a learning experience.

By actively pursuing opportunities, you are investing in yourself. Every new connection or skill learned is one more asset for your post-college life.

Mentorship and Networking: Building Your Support System

One of the most empowering steps you can take in college is to find a mentor. A mentor could be a professor, an advisor, a supervisor at work, or an experienced student or alumni in your field. Mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and often open doors to new opportunities. This kind of support is especially valuable if you are a first-generation student who may not have a built-in network of professional contacts. Connecting with mentors and peers helps you build “social capital”, the networks of relationships that can boost your career and personal growth.

Research underscores the power of mentorship. Studies have found that mentored students report greater confidence, clearer goals, and even improved early-career outcomes (Strada Education Network, 2024). In one national survey, college graduates who had a mentor during college were twice as likely to be engaged in their work and thriving in overall well-being after graduation (Gallup, 2014). The message is clear: you don’t have to navigate college (or the job market) alone. Seeking advice is a sign of strength and initiative, not weakness.

How do you find mentors? Start by building relationships with faculty and staff: visit professors’ office hours or talk to your advisor about your interests. Join student organizations or honor societies to meet students in advanced years who can offer tips. Many colleges also have formal mentorship programs, pairing students with alumni or professional volunteers. If you’re studying online, look for virtual mentorship communities or LinkedIn groups in your major. Don’t be afraid to send a polite email to someone whose career path you admire; often, people are happy to share their story or advice. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street built on respect and genuine connection. Come prepared with questions and be open about your goals. Over time, these relationships can blossom into a support system that will continue long after you earn your degree.

Skill-Building Experiences: Invest in Yourself

Beyond grades and classes, employers today are looking for adaptable skills and real-world experience. In a rapidly changing job market, it’s less about your major and more about what you can do. Skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership are often called “soft skills,” but they are crucial competencies that you can hone during college. The good news is that almost every college activity, from volunteering in the community to leading a club or working on a group project, can help build these skills.

Get involved in activities that interest you, whether it’s joining a tech club, writing for the student blog, organizing a community service event, or participating in a hackathon. Such experiences not only enrich your college life but also allow you to practice project management, collaboration, and creative thinking in a low-risk environment. Research shows that students who engage in extracurricular activities often develop better time management and interpersonal skills, and feel a stronger sense of belonging on campus (Kurtović et al., 2021). For first-gen and online learners, these activities can be a game-changer: they provide a sense of community and a break from isolation, which boosts motivation and persistence through challenges.

If you’re worried about stretching yourself too thin, remember that quality matters more than quantity. It’s better to commit to one or two activities that truly excite you than to sign up for everything. Look for “high-impact” experiences like service-learning courses, undergraduate research, or leadership roles in an organization. These tend to yield deeper learning and more significant growth. For example, volunteering for a cause you care about might sharpen your ability to organize events and communicate effectively, while also giving you purpose and stress relief. Likewise, taking on a leadership role, such as serving as a team lead on a class project or an officer in a club, helps you practice decision-making and teaches you to motivate others. Each of these experiences feeds into your personal and professional development, making you more resilient and versatile.

A Call to Action for Your Future

Making college count involves actively shaping your future. By focusing on career development, seeking mentorship, and engaging in skill-building experiences, you take ownership of your journey. This proactive mindset will pay dividends long after graduation. You’ll leave college not only with knowledge in your field, but also with a network of supporters, a portfolio of experiences, and the confidence to navigate the professional world.

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About the Author: Dr. Jessica Henlon holds a Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Education. She is an Education Contributor for Florida National News. Dr. Henlon can be reached at Education@FloridaNationalNews.com or book.jessicahenlon@gmail.com.

By Dr. Jessica Henlon | Education Contributor for Florida National News

Part 1: Navigating FAFSA Season and Financial Decision-Making

Every year, mid-October marks the height of FAFSA season, a time when college-bound students and their families tackle the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in hopes of securing financial assistance. This process often brings a mix of excitement and anxiety, and for many, applying for aid is an emotional journey. Students may feel overwhelmed by the complexity of forms and the weight of financial decisions that could shape their college opportunities.

This first article in our two-part series addresses the emotional and practical challenges of FAFSA season. It highlights how building financial awareness empowers students in choosing a college and planning for the future. We explore tools like the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the importance of understanding student loans and repayment, and the mental health aspects of taking on debt.

The Emotions and Challenges of FAFSA Season

Filling out the FAFSA can be both practically challenging and emotionally charged. Students must gather tax documents, understand financial jargon, and meet deadlines, tasks that can be especially daunting for those without prior guidance, a situation common among first-generation college students (The Education Trust, 2024). Emotionally, there is a lot at stake. Students know that financial aid outcomes may determine where, or if, they can afford to go to college.

Stress, confusion, and fear of making mistakes are common feelings during this process. Recent reports describe “tremendous mental health strain” among students awaiting financial aid letters (The Education Trust, 2024). One study found that words like “uncertainty,” “confusion,” “anxiety,” and “fatigue” frequently appeared in student conversations about financial aid (Sinha et al., 2023). An essential first step is to acknowledge these feelings as valid. Feeling nervous means you care about your future.

Students are not alone. Counselors, teachers, and online resources are available to guide them through the FAFSA. By taking the process one step at a time and asking for help when needed, students can turn this stressful season into an empowering experience.

Financial Awareness as Part of the College Decision

Financial awareness is a key component of thoughtful college decision-making. While it is easy to focus on rankings or campus life, understanding the financial fit of a college is just as important as the academic fit. That includes looking beyond sticker prices to consider net costs, projected borrowing, and long-term affordability.

Students from all backgrounds, and especially those from lower-income or first-generation families, benefit from early conversations about college costs and budgeting (BestColleges, 2023). Many young adults later wish they had learned more about loans and financial planning before starting college. A study of student social media posts found common expressions of regret, such as “I should’ve learned about budgeting,” with many reporting they did not fully understand the debt they were taking on (University of Georgia, 2023).

One practical strategy is to compare aid packages and calculate the net cost of attendance. If College A offers more scholarships than College B, it may be more affordable overall, even if its tuition is higher. Students can ask: “Which college gives me the education I want with the least financial burden?” Framing the decision in this way gives students agency and helps ensure that their college experience is both enriching and sustainable.

Using the College Scorecard for Informed Choices

To make informed comparisons, students can turn to the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard (https://collegescorecard.ed.gov). This free tool offers data on tuition, financial aid, graduation rates, average debt, and post-college earnings (Institute for Higher Education Policy [IHEP], 2023). Rather than relying on marketing materials or reputation alone, families can use real figures to guide decision-making.

For example, the Scorecard shows the average annual cost by income level, typical loan repayment success, and median earnings for graduates in different fields (IHEP, 2023). This information helps clarify the return on investment: Do graduates of this program earn enough to manage their debt? Are students likely to graduate and find stable employment?

By using the Scorecard, students might discover that one school has a higher graduation rate or that a particular major leads to more substantial earnings. Numbers are not everything, but they can help reduce uncertainty. Financial awareness is not about being overly money-focused; it is about protecting one’s future well-being. Using the Scorecard alongside academic fit and personal preferences helps students make decisions with complete confidence.

Student Loan Borrowing: Plan Before You Borrow

Many students borrow for college. The goal is not to avoid loans at all costs, but to use them intentionally. Federal student loans have flexible repayment plans and safety nets for low-income graduates (Bergland, 2023). Still, borrowing only what is needed and understanding the basics, like projected payments and career earnings, can reduce financial stress later.

Most undergraduates borrow modest amounts, with typical federal student loan balances ranging from $20,000 to $25,000 (Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 2025). While six-figure balances tend to dominate headlines, they are rare among undergraduate borrowers (Hanson, 2024). Financial aid advisors and loan calculators can help students create realistic repayment strategies based on expected salaries. A thoughtful approach to borrowing supports both educational and emotional well-being.

The Emotional Burden of Debt: Mental Health Matters

Financial decisions also carry psychological weight. Studies show clear links between student debt and increased anxiety, depression, and cognitive stress (Walsemann et al., 2015; Bergland, 2023). These effects are especially pronounced among underserved or first-generation students, who may feel additional pressure or lack support systems (The Education Trust, 2023).

Acknowledging the emotional dimension of debt is essential. Colleges increasingly offer financial wellness workshops, counseling services, and mentorship programs that address both fiscal and mental health needs. Seeking help is a sign of strength. Education should empower, not overwhelm—and maintaining mental well-being is part of making the most of the college experience.

National Trends in Student Loans and Repayment

Understanding national patterns helps students place their personal finances in context. As of mid-2025, Americans owe approximately $1.8 trillion in student loans, but the majority of borrowers owe less than $25,000 (Education Data Initiative, 2025; Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 2025). Repayment often extends beyond 10 years, especially for those using income-driven plans or returning to school.

Despite these long timelines, many borrowers successfully manage their payments. Federal policies such as the SAVE Plan offer income-based payment caps to support financial stability (Bergland, 2023). Students who complete their degrees and stay informed about repayment options tend to experience better outcomes.

Conclusion: A Call to Thoughtful Action

Financial awareness is not about fear; it is about empowerment. For college-bound students, developing a plan for paying for school is an investment in peace of mind. By approaching FAFSA season with curiosity, self-advocacy, and informed support, students can make decisions that serve both their academic dreams and their long-term well-being.

Part 2 of this series will explore how to make the most of college through career development, mentorship, and skill-building experiences that amplify the return on educational investment. Until then, students are encouraged to keep asking questions, seeking support, and remembering that taking ownership of their financial journey is a powerful form of self-leadership.

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About the Author: Dr. Jessica Henlon holds a Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Education. She is an Education Contributor for Florida National News. Dr. Henlon can be reached at Education@FloridaNationalNews.com or book.jessicahenlon@gmail.com.