November 2014

The Freedom Advocate

The shift to merit-based scholarships is not new. Fueled in large part by competition to rank well in the annual college ratings in U.S. News & World Report and others, insiders observe that many colleges and universities "buy" the loyalties of gifted students by awarding large merit-based scholarships. Whether the merit is academic, athletic or otherwise, these accomplished students are frequently lured to post-secondary institutions with large scholarships even if their families can afford to pay for college.

Opponents, or those less excited about merit-based awards, believe that the more important and the original role of scholarship monies are to level the playing field for students who want to attend college are were unable to pay.

We can debate the value of need-based vs. merit-based scholarships, but the trend toward merit-based financial aid speaks for itself. The more important question is how can a student who does not qualify for a merit-based award, but yearns for higher education, afford to go to college? To learn more, visit our website: www.educationisfreedom.org

Sincerely,

Marcia Page

Education is Freedom

Preparing for Success

In order to provide the best services to our students each Higher Education Advisor (HEA) participated in rigorous training in preparation for the start of the academic year. This summer, advisors conducted college visits to the University of Texas at San Antonio, Southwestern, Texas State Technical College, Incarnate Word, Texas State, and Our Lady of the Lake University. In effort to attain the most current information around admissions processes at various institutions, we hosted visits from Admissions Counselors from the University of Central Arkansas, DCCCD, UT Arlington, and the University of North Texas, HEAs also learned more about the financial aid process using the FAFSA/TASFA, classroom management, campus relationship management, effective communication, and are now CPR certified. Their training also included hands-on activities in which HEAs had the opportunity to work in teams and even deliver presentations to their colleagues on important topics in Education. HEAs are now fully equipped to make this a successful year!

Sponsor Highlight

We would like to thank Citi Foundation for their continued support of Education is Freedom's college persistence program. We are grateful for your partnership and ofr believing that all students deserve the opportunity to pursue a college degree

Sunset Bisons Charge Ahead

Sunset High School

Principal: Dr. Luz Martinez

We are excited to be back at Sunset High School! Brenda Molina, Higher Education Advisor at Sunset says, "Everyone has been super helpful. The counselors and I have a great relationship and the cooperation is great! The students are ambitious and hardworking; they take the initiative in a lot of the process." The results of that collaboration are proving to be very successful for Sunset. They have been able to reach out to 403 out of 443 seniors and assist with their college applications. Approximately 200 applications have already been submitted and a few students have already received their college acceptance letters. Sunset High School is a prime example of what can be accomplished when everyone works towards a common goal

About Us

Education is Freedom (EIF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive college planning services, producing life changing results for students and families.

Education is Freedom

1111 W. Mockingbird Ln

Suite 1300B

Dallas,TX 75247

1.877.642.6343

www.educationisfreedom.org

With your generous donation,

EIF can continue to positively impact young people

in the city of Dallas.

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In This Issue

Preparing for Success

Sunset Bisons Charge Ahead

Student Highlight

Student Spotlight

Advisor Highlight

I AM EIF

Student Spotlight

I AM EIF- Melissa Chavez

A. Maceo Smith New Tech High School

I AM EIF

A Message from EIF Student

Raviola Wenno

North Dallas High School

Raviola is a first generation student and is an exceptionally mature young lady. Currently Valedictorian at North Dallas, she has high aspirations to apply to Ivy League Schools. Through Quest Bridge, a program that connects the brightest low-income students to America's best universities and opportunities, she has applied to Columbia University in New York City. She plans to double major in business and engineering. Despite having numerous family obligations she is involved in the National Honor Society, the debate team, calculus club, and is on the swimming team.

This summer, Raviola, a Mayor's Intern Fellow, received the opportunity to intern at Gardere, one of Dallas' largest law firms. She was exposed to many departments within the firm and her employer was very pleased with her work ethic and professionalism. Throughout the 8-week internship , Raviola also successfully completed dual credit classes at El Centro College. She credits EIF for the "once in a lifetime opportunity" and says, "I have been able to work on and submit college applications, essays, and scholarships. EIF is very reliable and always available when you need them." Raviola is a well-rounded student and we commend her for her unwavering spirit.

EIF Advisor

L.G. Pinkston

Michael Warner

Michael Warner, a seasoned HEA, currently serves the students at L.G. Pinkston. He is a graduate of Criswell College with a bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies, a master's degree in Philosophy, and is currently pursuing his doctorate. Michael has over 8 years' experience working with students of all age groups.

Michael and the administration at L.G. Pinkston have already assisted nearly 85% of the seniors with their college applications. He consistently reaches out to parents to keep them engaged in their child's academic life. In addition, Michael has hosted two community service activities for his students: one at the Cedar Ridge Preserve where students helped maintain the facilities by clearing trail paths and creating footbridges and another helping younger students at Lorenzo DeZavala Elementary. Michael states, "I enjoy being an HEA because not only am I able to help students with their college and career pursuits but I can also share with them the importance of contributing back to society through these kinds of community service events."

Michael is looking forward to utilizing the experiences he's gained over the years to assist him as he continues another year with students on their journey to higher education

Did You Know:

Education is Freedom is serving over 19,700 students across 13 High School campuses during the 2014-2015 academic year.

Free	Volunteer Opportunities Available. EIF is always in need of volunteers. Our students value your expertise and experience. Please visit our web-site for all event dates and times: www.educationisfreedom.org. At each campus, we are hosting our Financial Aid workshops for parents and students and our scholarship fiestas for students. For more information, please call us at 214.432.8550.
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