Overcoming Negative Self-Talk & Finding Financial Aid for College

$100 Million in Scholarships unclaimed annually

Many students believe college is unaffordable due to negative self-talk and lack of financial guidance. However, millions in scholarships go unclaimed every year—keeping higher education out of reach unnecessarily.

Growing Up Without College Guidance

Born and raised in the Coastal Bend area I saw other kids have a different life while my parents worked multiple jobs to keep food on the table. At times, I felt less than and irrelevant, and thought I deserved less in life or that I should expect less from life. My parents never talked to me about going to college or trade school. I had heard people use words like "free money for college", but I never met my high school guidance counselor. I can’t even think of one teacher who ever acknowledged my existence.

I still wanted more:

• A college education

• A meaningful career

• A future where I could help my family

  
  

I just didn't know how I could afford it.

Missed Opportunity Due to Negative Self-Talk

By chance, I took the military entrance exam in high school. Eventually, an Air Force recruiter called me. He explained with my score and transcript I could attend the Air Force Academy and become an Officer.

For the first time, I felt hope.

That is until he explained I needed a recommendation letter from my congressman. My spirit was overwhelmed with negative self-talk.

"Why would some man in politics care about this little brown face?"

I never applied. I let the opportunity go, not because I wasn't qualified, but because I was afraid to ask.

Find Financial Aid for College

At NexGen Leadership Academy, our Career Counselors help students:

• Overcome negative self-talk

• Navigate FAFSA and financial aid applications for college

• Identify scholarships, grants, and fellowships

• Explore military-affiliated education benefits

• Create a realistic plan to pay for college or trade school

We believe access to a higher education should not depend on background, income or an individual's confidence level. We care about your short and long-term success!

Take the Next Steps Towards Paying for College

If you have questions, take the following steps:

• Speak with a NexGen Leadership Career Advisor for financial aid and scholarship options.

• Explore college scholarships and trade school tuition on our scholarship page.

• Start your FAFSA and financial aid applications early.

Have questions about paying for college, scholarships, or financial aid? Share your experience or ask your questions in the comments below—your story could help someone else take their first steps.

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