In honor of National Higher Education Day, Melissa Lee interviewed three Hera Hub members who are supporting future college students and their parents through the college admissions process.

National Higher Education Day was created in 2015 by Izamar Olaguez. The aim was to raise awareness about the resources available to financially support future graduates. As she puts it, “the exponential cost of higher education has turned a college degree into something of a luxury for many Americans.” In 2022, 19 million people nationwide engaged with National Higher Education Day.

Financial sacrifice and the stress that comes with it are the most common reasons for students dropping out. Below are a few stats on college dropout rates collected by the Education Data Initiative.

  • First-time freshmen at selective public institutions are 51.9% less likely to drop out of school.
  • Among first-time bachelor’s degree seekers, 25.7% ultimately drop out; among all undergraduate students, up to 40% drop out.
  • College dropouts make an average of 32.6% less income than bachelor’s degree holders.
  • The college dropout (SCND) rate in California is much higher than the national average. California residents are 46.5% more likely to be college dropouts compared to the average U.S. resident.

Applying for funding greatly increases the chances of students applying, enrolling, and ultimately graduating with a higher education degree.

Sylvia Borgo ,the owner and head counselor at DJ Educational Consulting in San Diego, is an accomplished educator with over 20 years of experience working with K-12 students. Knowledgeable teacher trained in classroom instruction, communication skills, essay writing, college counseling, educational project management, stress and time management.

Angelica (Ferreira) Garcia, Founder of Radiance College Consulting, geared towards helping high school seniors uncover their inner uniqueness — their radiance. This discovery enables students to approach their thinking, writing, and storytelling at a deeper level, resulting in an elevated essay they are proud to submit for their college applications. The 1:1 relationships she cultivates with students creates a trusting and supportive space during their busy senior year.

Amanda Hirko, College Admissions Consultant at Hirko Consulting, as a former high school teacher and writing tutor, Amanda is able to combine her professional writing and editing skills with her education and experience as a college consultant. She regularly visits colleges across the country to remain current with today’s admission practices and to maintain relationships with college admission counselors. She has helped hundreds of students set themselves apart in the applicant pool using their personal statements and essays and has a clear understanding of the importance of strategy in college applications.