Family Forum: Navigating Admission Offers & Award Letters

Receiving college admission decisions is exciting, but understanding the financial side can quickly become overwhelming. In this special Family Forum, senior parents will join a guided conversation about how to interpret admission offers and financial aid award letters so they can make confident decisions in the weeks ahead. We will walk through the different types of award letters families receive, explain the timelines for committing to a college, and provide practical guidance on how to request scholarship reconsideration or file an award appeal when appropriate. Parents will also gain clarity on the differences between institutional grants, federal aid, loans, and other forms of assistance that may appear in a financial package.

This session is designed to be highly practical and conversational. Families are encouraged to bring their questions as we discuss real situations and strategies that can help maximize value and reduce confusion during this important stage of the process. The program will be led by ACA’s Program Director, Bonnie Kleffman, M.Ed., GCDF and our College Consultant Director Melissa Wood, M.Ed. both experienced admissions professionals who work closely with families navigating selective college admissions each year.

This event is a special offering from the Access College America Masterclass Series. Expect a content packed discussion, practical insights, and an open Q&A where parents can ask questions and learn alongside other families going through the same process.

PRESENTERS:

Bonnie Kleffman, M.Ed, GCDF

Program Director

Access College America

Bonnie is a globally certified Career Development Facilitator who holds a Masters in Education and English. She has worked with students of all ages and backgrounds, and has a passion for helping students find careers that they love and the educational paths to get them there. She is the Program Director for Access College America, a national provider for guidance with college planning based in Austin, Texas.

Melissa Wood, M.Ed.

College Consulting Director

Access College America

Melissa is a licensed school counselor with Bachelor's and Master's of Music Degrees from Sam Houston State University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Texas State University, and a School Counselor Certification from Angelo State University. She has worked her entire career in public education, serving her campus community for 23 years in various roles, and has served as a school counselor for the past 5 years. Melissa has a true calling for assisting scholars in finding their chosen career path while also guiding them through the admission process to highly selective schools in Texas and across the country.