College Admissions Assistance

Florida Education leaders and Co-Founder of College Admissions Assistance, LLC spearhead a call for smart investments in education at the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce Education Summit.

Marilu Kernan, Co-Founder of College Admissions Assistance, LLC joins Superintendent Carvalho of MDCPS, President Rosenberg of Florida International University, and President Padron of Miami Dade College in urging legislators and business leaders to make an impact on economic prosperity with an increased investment in the South Florida educational system.

Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson with Marilu Kernan, Co-Founder of College Admissions Assistance.

September 20, 2011
Admissions Assistance, LLC joins Superintendent Carvalho of MDCPS, President Rosenberg of Florida International University, and President Padron of Miami Dade College in urging legislators and business leaders to make an impact on economic prosperity with an increased investment in the South Florida educational system.

Prompted by the Florida budget cuts to both public and private educational institutions in Miami, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce brought together more than 200 local, state, and national educational leaders at an educational summit on September 13, 2011 to explore real solutions. During the summit, Suzanne Walsh, Senior Program Officer of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation pointed out that “intergenerational poverty transmission is at its highest point” and that “education is the single biggest disruptor” to the poverty cycle.

There was a consensus among the educational leaders present at the summit that the future economy and the future of education in South Florida is in a “moment of crisis.” The new Florida Commissioner of Education, Gerard Robinson, expressed a message of hope when he shared recent education reforms. The U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Anthony Miller added that we need parents to be more demanding consumers of education, “South Korean parents spend close to 30% of their personal income on their children’s education for services such as after school lessons, cram schools and tutoring, in addition to receiving a quality public education.”

President Rosenberg, Superintendent Carvalho and President Padron delivered the vision and action plan on behalf of a coalition of educational leaders, which included the presidents of local universities, the Early Childhood Coalition, The Beacon Council, and the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. The main focus of the plan was on advocating for a “stable and sustainable” funding formula for education. The plan also committed to improve the relationships between the education community and business communities with tangible discussions on mentoring programs, internships, and business involvement in school career days. Marilu Kernan adds, "Investing in our children's education today is not only the smart thing to do for our community’s economy, it is the right thing to do to break the cycle of poverty".

Nursing student awarded the 2011 Jerome Evans Memorial Scholarship

August 2, 2011
College Admissions Assistance, LLC (CAA) has awarded $1500 to Tessa Zunk of Tigard, Oregon in the third annual Jerome Evans Memorial Scholarship contest. The scholarship was created in honor of CAA team member, Jerome Evans, who died in an accident in 2008. Jerome Evans was a strong proponent of education and community service.

The scholarship, in memoriam of Evans, is available to all high school seniors enrolled in CAA. Students who entered the contest were asked to write an essay on how they have had an influence on someone's life. Each essay is judged on content, language use, and grammar. Tessa, a first generation college student, wrote an impressive essay about how she discovered her niche-her natural ability to care for others-as she helped her aunt, then her mother, fight cancer.

"My mother is an official cancer survivor" she said. "She is doing a lot better."

This first generation student has had to overcome many hurdles to get where she is today. Winning the scholarship was another triumph for Tessa because English was not her best subject in high school.

"I took an IB English class" she said. "It was one of the hardest classes, but it helped me become a better writer. I never mind writing now, especially when I'm passionate about the topic." And she is passionate about her mother's recovery.

Tessa will be attending the University of Portland with a Presidential Scholarship and has decided to study nursing because of her love for caretaking and science. She was able to find her right fit college and career choice, and appreciates the help CAA provided along the way.

"I would definitely recommend the program to my friends" she said. "They gave me great advice on my essays and helped prepare me for my interviews."

The CAA team wishes her the best and is sure her willingness to help others will lead her to great things. Congratulations Tessa!

College Admissions Assistance is a comprehensive college-planning service that has helped thousands of students prepare themselves for college-from discovering a great career, achieving admission to the right college, and enjoying the best financial start in life. The company's ultimate mission is to help each student live out their unique purpose in life by helping them get started with the right college education.

Pennsylvania Resident Wins $1,500 Scholarship from College Admissions Assistance, LLC

August 1, 2011

Every year, College Admissions Assistance, LLC (CAA) awards several scholarships to graduating senior students enrolled in the CAA program. This year's Grand Prize Winner of the CAA Class of 2011 Scholarship is Azia Evans of Freemansberg, PA. Azia said she plans to use the money toward books and supplies and is very thankful for CAA's help since she joined.

"CAA has been a great help to me" she said. "The coaches helped me with the SAT test prep and they gave me great advice every time I called. I would definitely recommend CAA!"

Azia was accepted to five of the six schools she applied to including her first choice, Mount St. Mary's University, where she began taking classes this summer. She is a first generation college student, so this is a great achievement not only for Azia but her family as well.

"I always knew I would go to college" she said. "Accomplishing this goal has been a big deal to my family. Now that I'm here I think, 'Wow! I made it!'"

Since she has a passion for sports, Azia decided to study Sports Management. She hopes to one day become a Sports Director. Because of a past injury, Azia cannot play on the women's Division 1 basketball team, but it has not stopped her from becoming a part of the university's team altogether.

"I am planning to become the manager for the women's basketball team" she said. "I've always loved sports and would like to explore business and law while in school. I believe this will direct me toward my ultimate goal."

Azia hopes to be involved with campus life at Mount St. Mary's. Since she began her summer classes, she has joined the work study program and currently works for the Institutional Research Department. The department conducts surveys to research how to "enhance institutional effectiveness."

"I love the atmosphere of the campus" she said. "The first time I visited the school, I felt I belonged there. It's like one big happy family!"

Even though Azia has only been on campus a little more than two weeks, she is transitioning well. She said she will always appreciate the advice given by the coaching team because she learned precision and time management skills, which were essential to her college planning process and will be essential to her success in college as well.

"I believe my hard work paid off" she said. "There is always a reward for your hard work and CAA helps to build your confidence to understand how to make that hard work matter for you."

CAA's coaching team is very proud of Azia and congratulates her, not only for her winnings, but for finding her right fit career and college.

CAA Scholarship Winner Sets off for Western Washington University in the Fall

August 1, 2011

Stephanie MacKnight, of Issaquah, WA, is the $750 First Prize Winner of the College Admissions Assistance (CAA) Class of 2011 Scholarship. Stephanie will be attending Western Washington University this fall and knew when she visited the campus for the first time that this would be her college.

"I feel that college visits are the only way one can really tell if a college is the right fit or not" she said. "I loved WWU's campus because it is not that big and it feels homey and comfortable."

No matter how much a student loves a college, they must also consider finances, and Stephanie is no stranger to this truth. She said CAA was most helpful to her when it came to the financial aid process.

"CAA helped simplify the process of financial aid" She said. "They made the information clear, and I found the document reviews most helpful, especially the appeal letter review."

Stephanie wants to be involved in campus activities and plans try out for the women's rowing team at Western Washington University, where their NCAA Division II rowing team has earned seven National Champions.

It is no surprise that Stephanie wants to be involved on campus since she has dedicated her summers to volunteer at SAMBICA (a bible camp), has participated in various church activities, and held a part-time job.

"I love finding ways to serve and volunteer" she said. "I feel I have personally benefitted from my volunteer and service experiences and that I have improved my community as well." She added, "I have a solid faith in God. He gets you through life and it helps to know it is all for a reason."

At her part time job, Stephanie learned to speak comfortably with customers. This will help her as she pursues a communications degree. "I am hoping to one day work for the FBI" she said.

The CAA coaching team is very proud of Stephanie's accomplishments and that she has found her best fit school.

CAA is a comprehensive college-planning service that has helped thousands of students prepare themselves for college-from discovering a great career, achieving admission to the right college, and enjoying the best financial start in life. The company's ultimate mission is to help each student live out their unique purpose in life by getting them started with the right college education.

CAA scholarship Recipient Pursues Secondary Education Major at Northwest University

August 1, 2011

College Admissions Assistance (CAA) awarded Crista Greenwood $500 in the CAA Class of 2011 Scholarship contest as she makes final preparations to attend Northwest University next fall. Crista said CAA helped her simplify the college-planning process overall and reduced the level of stress in her family.

"CAA affects your future drastically" she said. "They give you the knowledge and confidence to prepare you for your future in college. It will cost you more not to use CAA."

Crista has chosen a future in education and hopes to teach the Japanese language. She would also like to receive a teaching certificate in English as a Second Langue (ESL). She is making plans to visit Japan.

"I love the excitement of learning a language" she said. "I especially love Japanese and it takes a special teacher to help you truly grasp the language."

Northwest University, which was Crista's first choice, offers both secondary and ESL education. She will be living on campus and is excited to begin in the fall.

"This is a completely new adventure" she said. "I'm excited to have the freedom to choose my own classes and plan to join the campus newspaper."

The CAA coaching team is also excited for Crista as she embarks on her new adventure and we congratulate her on winning the scholarship.

CAA Class of 2011 Scholarship Winner Plans to Dual Major in Engineering

August 1, 2011

Kirill Stanek of Sarasota FL was awarded $250 in the annual scholarship contest available to graduating seniors enrolled in College Admissions Assistance (CAA). Kirill plans to join the engineering program at the University of Florida and dual major in mechanical and aerospace engineering. He is grateful to CAA, not only for his winnings, but for helping him select his career.

"I wasn't sure what I wanted to do" he said. "The CAA coaching team helped me prioritize my thoughts, which made me wish I had known about the program sooner."

Kirill said he travelled a lot when he was younger, and Spain was his favorite destination because of the atmosphere and remarkable architecture. When he visited the University of Florida his attraction was similar. He was surprised that the campus felt as small as it did and appreciated the genuine atmosphere.

"Everyone I met was very friendly" he said. "The food was amazingly great and it was really easy to get around the campus even though it is pretty big."

Kirill plans to travel more and has many destinations in mind. With his degree from the University of Florida, he hopes to design fighter jets. The CAA coaching team is thrilled for Kirill's new adventure and wishes him all the best.

College Admissions Assistance, LLC Announces the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce 2011 Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship Award

June 22, 2011

"I want to make the world a better place." This is what Christina Peruyera says is her life's purpose and what she hopes to get out of college. On June 16th 2011, College Admissions Assistance, LLC and the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, partnered to grant the 2011 Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship Award to a high-achieving and well deserving high school graduate, Christina Peruyera from New World School of the Arts.

Christina Peruyera will be attending the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business in the fall, and is excited to start a new journey in her life. Christina is a business and arts student and hopes to double major in music and business—her two passions in life. Christina will be the first person in her family to attend college, and says "attending college was something that was decided since I was a young girl." Christina also knew at a young age that she wanted to study business saying, "I used to take the prizes from the kid’s meals at McDonald’s and instead of throwing them away, sell them and negotiate prices with my classmates."

Marilu Kernan, Co-Founder of CAA, Christina Peruyera and Penny Shaffer, Market President at BlueCross of Florida and Chairwoman of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce

Christina holds a 5.8 grade point average and feels that the support of her school, her teachers, and her parents has had a major impact on her high achievement over the years. "Going to a performing arts school, we often have 12 hour days," she says, "yet I have still found the time to contribute to my community." This high-spirited and altruistic high school graduate will use her time management skills and enthusiasm to ensure success in the college environment.

Christina is a Silver Knight nominee and the current president of Future Business Leaders of America; an organization in which she has been a member for four years. Christina is also the current vice-president of the Junior Opera Guild, where she has devoted over 350 hours during her high school career. During Christina’s participation with the Junior Opera Guild, she participated in multiple fundraisers to bring awareness in her community to the cultural art of opera. She was recognized for raising over $6500.00 by herself during one fundraiser, in order to continue opera programs in the Miami area.

Being of Cuban heritage, Christina’s parents immigrated to the United States to provide a better life for their family. Christina values being a role model for her younger brother, and believes her achievements allow her parents dreams to come true.

Richard Peruyera, Christina’s father says, "We are proud of our daughter; it is hard with Christina being the first born to let her go, but we know she is level-headed and well-prepared to transition to college."

Christina was presented with her scholarship award by Marilu Kernan, Chief marketing Officer of College Admissions Assistance, LLC and corporate member of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. As Kernan states, "Christina, you will represent Miami well in Pennsylvania – an accomplished young woman of immigrant heritage, an entrepreneur, a community giver, and a believer in the arts. Well done."

Boys and Girls Club Embarks On A College Prep Partnership

April 1, 2011

Lamar senior Jamara Hogan is college bound because of the Club's partnership with Arlington based College Admissions Assistance. She is among six students selected to participate in a program to assist Club members with college planning and preparation.

CAA has committed $125,000 in services over the next five years to 60 members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington who attend middle and high school. Services include career coaching, college selection, study skills, PSAT, SAT, and ACT test prep, college applications and essay review, financial aid advice and scholarship research. CAA will continue to work with selected students until the beginning of their freshman year in college.

"Thanks to CAA's support staff, Jamara is on track to becoming the first in her family to attend college," said Club President Steve A. Wurm. "She has been given clear expectations and knowledge of potential career options to pursue along with some colleges to seriously consider."

Wurm said he is confident the help from CAA will decrease the struggle families face. " Without the help from College Admissions Assistance, too many of the students we see will struggle in understanding the overall process of getting into colllege, leaving them at a higher risk of not pursuing a college education or eventually dropping out."

Jamara has received acceptance letters from two Texas universities and waits to hear back from more.

College Admissions Assistance, LLC Gives Sahasra Deepika a Helping Hand

January 17, 2011

On November 18, 2010, College Admissions Assistance, LLC (CAA) extended its charitable work across the Atlantic, with a $2500 donation to the Sahasra Deepika Foundation for Education at an Inaugural Outreach Gala at the Carnegie Institution for Science in Washington, D.C. The theme of the Gala was “Celebrating Hands of Friendship, Hands of Hope.” The Foundation, along with Sahasra Deepika International for Education, raises funds to support the children and programs of the Sahasra Deepika Institute (SDI), a unique school in Bangalore, India. The Inaugural Gala was an important first step in creating awareness in the US of the mission of SDI, which is to transform poverty into promise, through education.

Bangalore, India’s third largest city, is often referred to as “India’s Silicon Valley” for its thriving computer industry. However, as in many large cities, not all of Bangalore’s inhabitants thrive; many orphaned or abandoned children live on the streets. Without adequate food, clothing, education, and a roof over their heads, their future could be grim. Sahasra Deepika Institute currently provides a home for 56 children, and has been caring for girls and boys since its founding twelve years ago by Dr. T.V. Ramakrishna, giving them the opportunity to grow and learn in a safe and nurturing environment.

The Institute is also in the process of reaching out to 2500 low-income children who live in Bangalore and the surrounding areas with hopes to increase that number significantly in 2011. Since Basic English proficiency is essential to securing better jobs, one of the outreach programs they have established is an English Spelling Bee. They hope to find a corporate or private donor to sponsor the program. Congratulations to Hemalatha, of Honnaganna Hatti High School, the first winner!

Admission to Sahasra Deepika Institute is open to all children who are at least four years old, have lost both parents, or been deserted by both parents and have no place to go, or have lost one parent and the other parent is unable to care for them. Children who meet any one of these criteria are eligible for acceptance, regardless of caste, creed, nationality, or gender.

Whether you are a private individual or a corporation, and you would like to help Sahasra Deepika, you can donate money, computers or other equipment, sponsor scholarships or medical care, or just visit the facility and meet the children. Visitors are encouraged to build lasting relationships with the students.

College students are welcome to apply for the SDI Scholars Internship program, or to become volunteers (volunteers must be at least 20 years old). Interns have come from Dartmouth College and Washington University in St. Louis, and their projects have ranged from teaching the children about environmental stewardship, to how to use the library resources, among many others.

(To make a contribution, volunteer, apply for an internship, or become a sponsor, check out their Facebook page and/or their website, www.sdie.org.)

CAA is a comprehensive college-planning service that has helped thousands of students prepare themselves for college—from discovering a great career, achieving admission to the right college, and enjoying the best financial start in life. The company’s ultimate mission is to help each student live out their unique purpose in life by getting them started with the right college education.

College Admissions Assistance and The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington partner to help low-income students become the first college graduates in their families.

November 30, 2010

College Admissions Assistance, LLC (CAA) and The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington joined forces this fall jump starting their program to assist students with college planning and preparation.

CAA has committed $125,000 in services over the next five years to members of The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington who currently attend middle and high school. The provided services include: career coaching, college selection, study skills, PSAT, SAT and ACT test prep, college application and essay review, financial aid advice, and scholarship research. CAA will continue to work with selected students until the beginning of their freshman year in college.

The program commenced in September with six selected students, but will quickly expand to sixty students. CAA, based in Arlington TX, has an ongoing commitment to the local community and a desire to help The Boys & Girls Clubs make a positive impact on students' lives in the cities of Arlington and Mansfield.

"The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington is excited about the partnership with CAA," said Steve Wurm, President of The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington. "For these students, this will be the assistance they need in becoming the first in their families to consider going to college."

According to Wurm, parents and students have already started to benefit from the program and better understand the admissions and financial aid processes.

"Thanks to CAA’s support staff, one young lady is on track to becoming the first in her family to attend college next fall," said Wurm. "She has been given clear expectations and knowledge of potential career options to pursue along with some colleges to seriously consider."

Beverly Hogan, mother of a student participating in the program, said she believes CAA will successfully guide other Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington students through the intricate process as they have with her daughter.

“[The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington] is the most positive place a child can be.” Hogan said. “They would not choose someone to partner with unless they were confident in them and knew it would have a positive impact on their members.”

Wurm said he is confident the help from CAA will decrease the struggle families face. "Without the help from College Admission Assistance, too many of the students we see will struggle in understanding the overall process of getting into college, leaving them at a higher risk of not pursuing a college education or eventually dropping out."

The employees of CAA are embracing the opportunity to work with The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington and are excited to extend a helping hand to this very special group of students.

"I grew up in Arlington and this program is such a great opportunity to make kids' lives better! I am very excited to personally invest in the lives of students in my hometown." Nathan Murray, a CAA College Planning Coach, said. "They've really worked hard to be a part of this program. I’m confident CAA will help these students realize their college and career dreams."

Since 1959, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington have offered their assistance to generations of less fortunate children and young adults. Their core mission is "to inspire and enable all young people... to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens." They have approximately 6,000 members with five branches throughout Arlington with twelve licensed after school sites within the Arlington and Mansfield ISDs.

The Essay: Your "Voice" in the College Admission Process

September 30, 2010
Fall—the return of cooler temperatures, football games, pumpkin lattés, and for high school seniors, it means that it's time to fill out college applications. Many students put off sending in their applications because they haven't started working on their essays yet. The thought of writing a college admission essay often conjures up feelings of terror, punishment, torture. . . . But in actuality, students should think of the essay as an opportunity to show the college who they are, not as a task to dread.

Many colleges require an essay as part of the admission process; it is used to evaluate the unique qualities a student would bring to their institution if accepted. It also helps colleges evaluate a student's entire application for consistency. A well-written essay also helps confirm that the student's GPA and test scores are an accurate reflection of his or her academic abilities.

Students applying to the same college often have similar qualifications for admission. But GPA, test scores, and extracurricular activities don't reveal the student's personality. When the college can "see" the student's personality, they can better determine if that student is a good match. Fortunately, admission essays give students the opportunity to present their unique personality to the college, and to do it in the very best light.

Admissions officers use the essay to help them "see" a student's personality, but they are also looking at the student's facility with the English language. It warms their hearts to read an essay that is clear and concise, grammatically correct, and free of spelling errors. Essays also let the admissions officer know whether a student can follow instructions. Students must stay on topic and within any stated word or character limit. For these reasons it is important to have an essay reviewed before it is submitted.

Selective colleges will expect even more. Originality, maturity, intelligence, a worthy topic, a well-developed sense of humor—all contribute to excellent writing, and are a reflection of the student's personality, interests, and character.

Here are some very helpful hints for students:

Read and FOLLOW the directions.
Get real. Write about what you know, not what you think the college wants to hear. And don't use "big" words that are not part of your normal vocabulary to try to impress the reader—it won't.
Get to the point. In other words, don't "dance around" your subject or go off on unrelated tangents.
Avoid saying "I think," "I feel," or "I believe." Since you are the one who is writing the essay, the reader can safely assume that you think, feel, and believe that what you're saying is true!
Humor. Use humor sparingly, and be sure to "test drive" any humorous passages by letting someone else read them.
Focus on the positive. Most of us have faced problems, failures, and/or obstacles in our lives. Talk about what you learned from them. Stay focused on the positive aspects rather than the negative.
Topics NOT to write about: Your boyfriend or girlfriend, philosophy, sex, why your political/religious views are right and why other people's views are wrong, etc.
Use examples! Broad, general statements are fine—as long as you support them by giving examples.
Vary your sentence style. Use a combination of simple, complex, and compound sentences. Doing this will help keep your reader engaged in your essay.
Editing: Check spellings you're unsure of against the dictionary. Cut all words that add nothing substantive to the essay.

Here are some very helpful tips for parents:

Help your student brainstorm essay topics. Keep it light and have fun!
Once your student has selected a topic, have them jot down everything they think is interesting and/or important about it on a sheet of paper and offer suggestions if you can think of anything else to add to the list.
Then stand back and let them write the essay. Hands off!
When they finish have them read it to you, if they are willing, so that THEY can see if there are any awkward spots.
Just remember, the essay needs to be their work. It needs to reflect their voice and their personality. That is what the colleges are looking for!

The essay is a very powerful piece of the college application process. Students will write the best essays when they have time to brainstorm, write, rewrite, and edit. Long delays in getting started can cause panic. All of that can be avoided with an early start. Remember, the essay gives the student a chance to add their "voice" to the application. And that isn't scary at all.

Mary Lina Berndt earned her PhD (abd) in English and rhetoric from Texas Christian University. Her passion is helping college bound students with their admission essays and writing skills. Ms. Berndt has reviewed thousands of application and scholarship essays and is an essay coach for College Admissions Assistance, LLC. She is a former college English professor, publisher, and has edited hundreds of books for a publishing house.

Mackenzie Jones Wins 2010 Jerome Evans Memorial Scholarship

July 12, 2010

College Admissions Assistance (CAA) is pleased to announce that Mackenzie Jones of McKinney, Texas is the winner of its annual Jerome Evans Memorial Scholarship. Mr. Evans was a CAA team member who had a significant influence on the lives of many young people. He died in an accident in 2008, at the age of fifty-six.

The scholarship that bears his name is open to all high school seniors who are enrolled in the College Admissions Assistance program, and carries with it a $1500 award. Entrants are asked to write an essay describing how they have made a positive difference in the life of another person or group of people. Essays are judged on content, language use, and grammar.

Mackenzie will attend Texas State College in San Marcos, where she will major in English. Her essay addresses a significant topic and demonstrates a mature command of the English language. “When I was just a little kid,” says Mackenzie, “I loved music and wrote my own songs. That was how I fell in love with words. Later, I wrote essays and movie scripts.” When she’s not writing, she’s reading, playing guitar, or going to concerts.

Congratulations on your scholarship, Mackenzie! We look forward to hearing from you in the future!

College Admissions Assistance is a comprehensive college-planning service that has helped thousands of students prepare themselves for college—from discovering a great career, achieving admission to the right college, and enjoying the best financial start in life. The company’s ultimate mission is to help each student live out their unique purpose in life by helping them get started with the right college education.

Houston Engineering Student Wins $1500 Scholarship from CAA

July 10, 2010

Each year, College Admissions Assistance (CAA) of Arlington, Texas, awards multiple scholarships to graduating high school students enrolled in its program. Houston student Alejandra Europa is the recipient of the CAA Class of 2010 Grand Prize Scholarship of $1500. She writes, “CAA’s SAT and ACT test prep programs were very helpful! They made my scores higher. I would definitely recommend the program to my friends.” Accepted at every college and university she applied to (including UT Austin and Baylor), Alejandra finally chose Texas A&M College Station. She is enthusiastic about the traditions of A&M where, she says “It feels like home, and it’s very family friendly.” She’s also attracted by the sterling reputation of its engineering department.

Women are still under-represented in engineering departments, but thanks to talented and determined students like Alejandra, that situation is gradually changing. Alejandra received a lot of support and encouragement from her uncle, who is an industrial engineer, and his son (Alejandra’s cousin), who is a mechanical engineer.

Alejandra is entering A&M as a chemical engineering major. “After I earn my degree,” she says, “I’d like to work with a firm that helps solve environmental problems, because I want future generations to enjoy the natural resources of the Earth.” Alejandra was drawn to engineering because “All engineering fields influence and affect people’s daily lives; and that’s what I want to do—improve people’s lives.”

We’re pretty sure she’s going to do just that. Everyone at CAA is extremely proud of Alejandra, and its entire high school graduating class of 2010.

Future Nursing Student Wins $500 Scholarship from College Admissions Assistance

July 9, 2010

Each year, College Admissions Assistance (CAA) of Arlington, Texas, awards multiple scholarships to graduating high school students in its program. Brownsville student Jennifer Jefferson is this year’s recipient of the CAA Class of 2010 Scholarship of $500. She writes, “Your program helped me prepare for college by helping me narrow down my selection of schools, and with the college entrance exams [SAT & ACT]. Overall, the program was extremely helpful. I would definitely recommend it to my friends.” Jennifer was accepted at both University of Tampa, and University of Texas at Brownsville. She’ll be majoring in nursing at UT Brownsville. She likes the fact that she will be close to her family while attending college.

Jennifer’s career choice was made early—from the time she was seven years old, to be exact. Her grandparents had medical issues, and she would accompany them on their many trips to the doctor’s office. She liked the way the office nurse interacted with her grandparents, and was fascinated by the medical procedures. As her grandfather’s diabetes became more severe, she helped to nurse and care for him. Now she is looking forward to graduating with a degree in nursing, and going straight to work once she earns her R.N. degree.

Jennifer’s hobbies include taking care of her pets, Roxie the Lab and a couple of cats. She is also a music aficionado, and was in Band throughout middle school and in her freshman year of high school. Everyone at CAA is extremely proud of Jennifer and its entire high school graduating class of 2010.

CAA Cofounder Heads the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce Education Committee

July 1, 2010

Marilu Rios Kernan, cofounder and Chief Marketing Officer of College Admissions Assistance, and a board member of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, was recently appointed Chair of the Education Committee for 2010-2011. “I am so grateful to have this opportunity to work with some of the best minds in the fields of education and business; together, I know we can make a positive difference toward helping our students thrive in today’s economy and meet the challenges of the future!”

Committee members have developed specific goals and plans, and are in the process of refining and integrating them into the Chamber of Commerce’s Program of Work, which will be released in July. Ms. Rios Kernan is enthusiastic about the influential team of educators she will be working with in the coming year, including Alberto Carvalho, Miami Dade County Public School System Superintendent; Sister Linda Bevilacqua, President of Barry University; Dr. Sandra Thompson, President of Florida Memorial University; and Dr. Thomas LeBlanc, Provost and Executive Vice President of the University of Miami. “Everyone on this committee is passionately committed to making sure the kids in our community have the opportunity to get a world-class education. After all, education is not only the key to the prosperity of the local community, but also the national and the global community.”

CAA Announces Recipient of 2010 Jeanne Bellamy Award

June 2, 2010

In keeping with its commitment to helping students discover and fulfill their destiny through a college education, College Admissions Assistance (CAA) is pleased to announce its continued financial support for the 2010 Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship. The scholarship, created by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, was named in honor of the first woman chairperson of the Chamber. Jeanne Bellamy was a woman of many talents, and had a long and varied career in the Greater Miami area. She spent forty years writing for the Miami Herald, was a commentator on Miami Radio, the moderator of the TV program, We Want to Know, and chairperson of the National Audubon Society—among many other accomplishments. The scholarship that bears her name is given annually to an outstanding graduating senior from a Miami Dade public school who plans to major in business.

Chamber board member, Marilu Kernan, Chief Marketing Officer and co-founder of CAA, presented the award. “We are grateful to have the opportunity to help fund this scholarship and we are so proud of our winner, Khadijah. She did not let the financial challenges of her family situation limit her desire for education, success, or to serve others."

Khadijah Brydson is the recipient of the 2010 annual Jeanne Bellamy award and, like Bellamy, she has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to community service. Her accomplishments so far have been truly impressive. She has already founded her own non-profit corporation, Emerging from Lo Debar, Inc., which focuses on helping children to resist gangs and reject violence. In 2006, Khadijah was visiting relatives in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, when gang violence broke out. Rather than allow the experience to traumatize her, she did something about it. It became the catalyst for her decision to establish Emerging from Lo Debar. So far, more than 250 children in Jamaica and Miami, from ages 4-11, participate in the program. They keep in touch via the Pen Pal initiative of Emerging from Lo Debar, through which they exchange encouragement, moral support, and advice on how to handle problems. Additionally, Khadijah visits “her kids” in Jamaica often—once a month whenever she can.

She was awarded the Volunteer Service Award by President Barack Obama, and the Princeton Prize in Race Relations. She has put in more than 4,000 volunteer hours since the 9th grade, and is graduating with a 5.8 GPA. As Junior Mayor of the City of Miami Gardens, she was instrumental in planning the “Stop the Violence” program and helping with voter registration. Khadijah attends Miami Carol City Senior High, and was president of the National Honor Society there. She will use the $2500 Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, where she will double-major in Business and English. She will be the first in her family to attend college.

Although she is grateful for all the awards, honors, and attention that have been showered upon her, Khadijah seems completely unfazed by it all. “The best reward I could ask for,” she says, “is the smiles on the faces of the kids I am helping.”

College Admissions Assistance is proud to help Khadijah Brydson achieve her educational goals. Her entrepreneurial spirit, courage, commitment, and compassion are evident in everything she has done. We wish her all the best.

College Admissions Assistance, LLC is a comprehensive college-planning organization that has helped thousands of students prepare themselves for college—from discovering a great career, achieving admission to the right college, and enjoying the best financial start in life. The company’s ultimate mission is to help each student live out their unique purpose in life by helping them get started with the right college education. Visit http://www.caaconnect.com/our_students/our_results to learn more about our mission and our results.

CAA enters second year of working with Boys and Girls Club Center in Florida

January 20, 2010

College Admissions Assistance (CAA) is all about making a difference in the lives of others. That’s why last year it teamed up with the Reitman Unit of the Broward County Boys and Girls Club located in Broward County, Florida, and donated more than $65,000 dollars in services to its club members. Selected students are now entering their second year in CAA’s exclusive college-planning program. CAA is working with these students to prepare them for a common goal: acceptance to colleges that will help them realize their dreams and fulfill their destiny.

Ian Pyka, President of the Reitman Unit Advisory Board, commented that “CAA has been a true blessing for our Club! It has infused a fresh approach to creating a clear and feasible path to college. We appreciate all the positive changes they have been made in our children’s lives and we look forward to watching the students progress even further in 2010.”

Michael Caceres, Director of CAA’s Coaching Team, was himself a member of a Boys and Girls Club when he was a youth, so when he visited the Reitman Unit, it brought back fond memories. “I was happy to see that the Boys and Girls Club is still making a difference in young lives every day,” says Michael. “It was uplifting to meet so many great kids; they were polite, interested, enthusiastic about our program, and wanted to start setting goals right then! We are committed to making a major impact on their lives in the coming years, and they have certainly made an impact on our lives here at CAA.”

According to Kelvin Harris, Unit Director of the Reitman Boys and Girls Club, CAA is making a great impact. “The CAA coaches’ constant motivation and encouragement is truly helping the members reach their goals. It’s really quite amazing!”

Michael and his coaching team are looking forward to making the second year even better than the first. “They’re a terrific group of young people and we are privileged to work with them. I’m not sure who’s more excited about this next year…us or the students!”

College Admission Assistance is a comprehensive college-planning service that has helped thousands of students prepare themselves for college—from discovering a great career, achieving admission to the right college, and enjoying the best financial start in life. The company’s ultimate mission is to help each student live out their unique purpose in life by getting them started with the right college education.

CAA Completes Phase II Expansion Ahead of Schedule in Response to Continued Demand for Service

Arlington, TX—January 11, 2010 (College Admissions Assistance)

Due to the steadily increasing demand for its services, College Admissions Assistance (CAA) completed the secondary phase of its expansion plan in October of 2009, three months ahead of schedule. Phase II had been slated to begin in late January 2010, but was moved up to accommodate the influx of new students entering the program. CAA’s president Rick Byrd is thrilled with the progress: “We are excited and gratified with the response we are seeing. Our client base has once again doubled since last year, and we have responded by doubling our coaching staff and expanding our customer service facilities as part of our continued commitment to provide the highest level of service.”

CAA’s goal is to provide prompt, accurate, and individualized service to each of its students. CAA provides the most comprehensive college planning service available today. CAA is the leading full service provider in their field and has the results and experience that only comes from helping tens of thousands of students plan for their future. Its dedicated coaching staff is available fifteen hours a day, Monday through Friday, to provide step-by-step assistance to their students and their parents. All coaches are degreed professionals, and receive intensive, on-going training in all aspects of the ever-changing college admissions process. The company’s approach has been so successful that it is also expanding its sales staff to accommodate a growing number of client referrals.

“Everyone at CAA is dedicated to helping students discover and achieve their educational goals, and fulfill their potential,” says Byrd. “We consider ourselves fortunate to be experiencing our rapid growth during the current economic times and we’re looking forward to another successful year of service to our client families.”

Jerome Evans Memorial Scholarship: Honoring Those Who Make a Difference

Arlington, TX—July 31, 2009 (College Admissions Assistance)

On July 31, 2009, College Admissions Assistance (CAA) announced the first award of the newly created Jerome Evans Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship was awarded to Yujia ("Mary") Liu of Vernon Hills, Illinois who plans to attend New York University beginning in the fall of 2009.

The $1,500 scholarship is named after one of CAA’s team members, Mr. Jerome T. Evans, III of metro Atlanta, GA, who died from injuries resulting from an accident that occurred in November of 2008. Mr. Evans was returning home from a CAA workshop at the time of the accident. Mr. Evans was fifty-six years old and is survived by his parents, wife, and four sons.

The scholarship will be awarded annually to a senior enrolled in the CAA program who writes the best essay of about 250 words explaining how he or she has made a positive difference in the life of another person or group of people. Essays will be judged on language use/grammar and content.

“Jerome would be elated if he knew that a scholarship had been created and named for him,” said his wife, Mrs. Debra Evans. “He always encouraged people to fulfill their potential and strive for excellence. I’m sure Jerome would say something along those lines to Mary if he were here with us today. Our entire family is honored that he will be remembered in this way. Education was so important to him.”

Mr. Evans’ own academic career encountered a major obstacle nearly from the onset. While a young elementary student he was diagnosed with rheumatic fever and told he could no longer attend school. Undaunted, his mother, Mrs. Mary Hawkins, proceeded to home-school her son, often with the help of his grandmother. Mrs. Hawkins relied on work provided by the school teachers and her own study materials gleaned from a set of encyclopedias she had purchased just for that purpose. “Jerome fondly remembered those encyclopedias as one of his favorite gifts,” Mrs. Hawkins said. “He read from them almost daily and was determined to be as smart as his peers who learned in the classroom while he studied at home.”

“I taught my son at home until the end of his junior year,” Mrs. Hawkins reminisced. “By that time his health had improved to the point that he was permitted to return to school. He surprised everybody with how much he knew. He was so strong in math that it wasn’t long before he began to tutor his fellow classmates.”

Mr. Evans went on to receive an R.J. Reynolds Foundation Scholarship and attended Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) in North Carolina and became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity.

After graduating from WSSU, Mr. Evans served as the School Director at several professional training schools before leaving the field of education to pursue a career in the health and fitness industry. “One of the reasons he was so excited about working for College Admissions Assistance was because it was his path back into the field of education,” Mrs. Evans said.

“My son was always hard-working and focused on accomplishing his dreams,” Mrs. Hawkins recalled with pride. “He extended himself to everyone he met to do whatever he possibly could to help them have a better way of life. We are so thankful that he be remembered in a manner as fitting as this scholarship.” Mr. Evans' seventeen year old son, Jeremy Evans is a rising senior already looking forward to his own college career. Jeremy hopes to major in software programming with a focus in computer gaming and animation. “My dad was such a good man and had a great sense of humor,” Jeremy said. “I can just see him walking up to Mary and saying, ‘Welcome to the family’.”

Mrs. Evans agreed with a laugh. “Even though Jerome is deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that his loss has become a blessing to someone else through this scholarship,” she added.

Educator Finds Dream Job with CAA
Arlington, TX—June 1, 2009 (College Admissions Assistance)

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Barbara Blascoe knew since the time she was in the third grade that she was destined to become a teacher. That career plan never changed. Graduating from the University of Wisconsin in Oshkosh with a degree in Education and a minor in English, Barbara stepped into her first classroom at the age of twenty-two. She went on to teach the first through sixth grades in Rockford, Illinois for thirty-four years.

"I am a teacher," Barbara says, "I’ve always loved and enjoyed helping students.” later obtained a Master’s degree in Education and specialized in teaching spelling, and eventually began work toward a doctorate degree. "I went to work every day knowing that I was contributing to improving my student's futures."

"One day a friend told me about College Admissions Assistance," she recalls, "and I knew I had found an opportunity that tapped into my passion." After being out of the classroom for four years, Barbara soon found herself working with students again. She has been with College Admissions Assistance (CAA) for eighteen months now, working as an Enrollment Consultant in the Midwest region.

"As I was getting to know the company, my first reaction was that I wished such a service had been available for my children while they were in high school. Although I have been an educator most of my life, I was not a college expert. So much has changed since the time when I first went to college; it has become so expensive and competitive to get into college. All four of my children entered college, but only one graduated. We just made so many mistakes,” she admits. “We learned the hard way that bad choices could delay graduation from college, or even prevent you from finishing."

"What speaks to me about CAA is the focus we place on the student and his or her dreams, not the financial aid package. We worry about if you are planning the right career for your interests and talents, and if you are pursuing the right school for that career. We make sure our students are on the right career path before we begin thinking about which colleges to consider. Yes, we also help students and families figure out how to pay for college, but only after we’ve done the other, more important work. I really believe we are approaching college admissions in the correct sequence of events."

The fact that Barbara now has a niece and nephew enrolled in CAA is an endorsement of how much she believes in the service.

"When I see students enroll in our program, I become so excited because I know I am helping them. I know that they will have a better college experience because of CAA than they would have otherwise had. It is so rewarding to me to once again be a part of helping students make the most of themselves, to assure that they will have a better future. Honestly, it is the coaches who are doing the real work with our students, but then I am the one who convinces them to seize the opportunity CAA represents. In that way, I believe I am continuing to impact students' lives.

One of the validations I received about CAA came when I enrolled the daughter of a high school guidance consultant. He told me he didn't have the time or resources to give his own child what we were going to be able to provide her through CAA. My job is to help families and students understand how wonderful an opportunity CAA really is. And it is; I know this because I watched my own children struggle to find their way in college. I would have given anything to provide this service to them if CAA had been available back then."

Seeing the impact of CAA and wanting to make it available to as many students as possible, Barbara has recently decided to move into a new role, that of a Community Representative. "As I've told my friends about my new career, they want to know how to enroll their own children in CAA. That convinced me there is a need in my own community, and since I love the school system here and worked in it for so many years, it seemed a natural progression for me to become a Community Representative."

When asked if she enjoys what is shaping up to be her second career in education, Barbara is quick to confirm that she does. “It is so rewarding to see the relief come over students’ faces when they realize they are going to receive help getting into college. And beyond that, every now and then I will hear about students I enrolled and it brings me to tears when I learn how well they've done on the SAT or about a scholarship they've received. It gives me great pleasure to know that, because of our encounter at a workshop, they are going to have a better college experience." She paused and then added, "In a small measure, I'm still helping to improve their futures, I think."

Indeed she is.

CAA Completes Phase One of Three-Phase Expansion Plan
Arlington, TX—July 7, 2009 (College Admissions Assistance)

Lee Sechrist, Executive Vice President of College Admissions Assistance, LLC (CAA), a private educational-service organization, announced today the successful completion of Phase I of the company’s three-phase expansion plan. The company has invested heavily in infrastructure and staff to accommodate the needs of its rapidly expanding client base.

"Our growth is right on schedule," Sechrist says. "In just a little over two years, thousands of families across forty-one states have turned to us for help with the college planning process. To continue giving our students the high level of quality service we are known for, we have increased our coaching staff, and expanded our offices as well."

Phase II of the expansion plan is scheduled to begin in January, 2010. At that time, the company will expand its Arlington, Texas customer support facility an additional forty percent. "At the end of Phase II we will have doubled our coaching staff,” Sechrist explains. "Our expansion is a direct response to the increased demand for our services, and we are adding staff to ensure that every student has a substantive and rewarding experience with CAA. The success our company has experienced is primarily due to our personal commitment to our students, and providing the highest levels of service and support to those who rely on us for guidance with college planning."

CAA provides the most comprehensive college planning service available today. Its dedicated coaching staff is available fifteen hours a day, Monday through Friday, to provide expert assistance and personal interaction with our students and their parents.

Star Student Receives Business Scholarship
May 6, 2009 (College Admissions Assistance)

In May, 2009, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce presented the 10th annual Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship Award to Valentina Contesse, a senior at Coral Reef High School. This scholarship is funded in part by CAA.

This award was created in 2000 by the Chamber and was named after Jeanne Bellamy, the first Woman Chairperson of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, who served in 1977. The award is for a graduating female senior from Miami Dade County Public Schools pursuing a college degree in business.

Valentina Contesse and her family came to Miami from Chile when she was in the fourth grade. She is President of the National Art Honor Society in her school, has a 5.07 GPA and is planning to attend the University of Florida where she will major in Advertising and Marketing and minor in Graphic Design.

In addition to excelling in academics, Valentina stood out among the other candidates for the award because of her extensive community involvement. In the past four years she has served over 1200 volunteer hours with various civic projects and organizations.

"It is an honor to receive an award that was created to recognize a woman who succeeded in business to the degree that Jeanne Bellamy did," Valentina said. "I am so happy to be the tenth recipient of this distinguished award."

In a recent interview Valentina was asked to describe herself. This is what she had to say:

"I like to have a lot of things going on. In high school I had to learn to balance academics, clubs, volunteering and my job; it really helped me with my time management! What I enjoyed most was the Visual and Performing Arts tutoring project I organized for fifth graders. I wanted to introduce middle school students to the possibility of attending magnet schools, and that project helped me to accomplish that. It was challenging at times but the kids helped me stay motivated."

How did you manage to volunteer for over 1200 hours, keep a job and maintain your grades?

"I've been a volunteer since I was a freshman; the hours just added up over four consecutive years. In addition to the tutoring project, I've been a cheerleading coach, a Best Buddy, worked with the Haitian Relief Project, and organized the arts and crafts supply drive for Miami Children's Hospital. I like helping people."

You applied to five colleges and were accepted by all of them, right?

"Yes, and I've decided to attend the University of Florida in Gainesville. It was my top choice because they have a great advertising and marketing program in the Business School, and a strong graphic design program. I want to learn how to use all the digital tools available today for graphic artists. I'm excited about the opportunity to combine business and the arts in my studies.

I have to admit I'm a little nervous about being that far away from my family. As a Hispanic family we are very close and enjoy a lot of activities together. Not being a part of what they are doing is going to be very different for me."

Please tell us about your family.

"I have an older brother and sister. He studied Business Administration and she, Public Relations. They, and my Dad, who is in advertising, have been strong influences on my college and career plans.

My Dad was transferred to the US from Chile to open a branch office in Miami to serve the growing Hispanic market. I used to go to work with him and there I learned a lot about marketing and advertising."

Your parents have raised a houseful of overachievers!

"Yes, they are very proud of each of us. I also have one younger brother. We think he will be the smartest one in the family!"

What does the future hold for you?

"I've always seen myself working for an advertising company as an art director or marketing director. But it's early still; I could change my mind as I become familiar with other areas of study and careers. Ask me again in a few years. I can say, however, that I want to come back to Miami to work so that I can be close to my family again."

You seem too busy to have a social life. How well do you relate to your peers?

"People ask me all the time how I manage everything, but it just seems normal to me. I have a boyfriend with whom I spend a good amount of time, and I see my friends from school. We go to movies, the park, and hang out at each other's houses. I used to get stressed because I was so busy, but over the years I've learned to manage it. I hope I've inspired some of my friends to take on more than they initially thought they were capable of. I think I've helped them to see how to be organized."

You have a lot of leadership skills. Are you interested in management?

"I just came back from orientation at the University of Florida. While there I learned about their leadership program. I may choose to minor in that also."

Your life seems to parallel Jeanne Bellamy’s career very nicely; she accomplished so much and so have you. You are a bit young to be thinking about your legacy, but if you could determine how people at Coral Reef Senior High School would remember you, what would you choose?

"I am grateful for what the community has given me, especially the opportunity to attend magnet schools, and I've wanted to show my gratitude by giving back. I'd like to do that by helping break the language barrier in schools. Many Hispanic children have parents that don't understand English. So often young children can&'t take advantage of all the opportunities available in their schools because their parents aren't aware of them or don't know how to get their children involved. That is what the tutoring project was really about. I'd be very proud to be remembered for that."

Based on her accomplishments to date, it seems sure that Valentina Contesse will have many successes in her future. Certainly she will continue to impact others' lives through her generous and caring spirit. It is because of people like Valentina that we at CAA are proud to be a sponsor of the Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship Award.

Devon Robinson Receives $1500 Scholarship from College Admissions Assistance

Arlington, TX—July 7, 2008 (College Admissions Assistance)

Each year, College Admissions Assistance (CAA) awards a scholarship to a deserving member of its college-planning program. In 2008, that person was Mission Hills High School senior Devon Robinson of San Marcos, California. Devon, who is interested in the relationship between health, nutrition, and diet, was accepted at all three schools she applied to: University of California Riverside, San Jose State, and San Francisco State.

Devon writes, “CAA lived up to their word. They stayed in touch with me through email to prompt me about each step for the task at hand. At the beginning of the program, they had me do a personal assessment to help me determine my skills and how they would relate to my major in college. This really helped me by confirming my own educational goals.”

College Admission Assistance is a comprehensive college-planning service that has helped thousands of students prepare themselves for college—from discovering a great career, achieving admission to the right college, and enjoying the best financial start in life. The company’s ultimate mission is to help each student live out their unique purpose in life.

College Admissions Assistance Contributes Matching Funds to Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship
Miami, FL—May 7, 2008 (Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce)

The 2008-2009 Jeanne Bellamy Scholarship will be awarded to a female high school senior from a Miami-Dade County Public High School who intends to pursue a degree in business. College Admissions Assistance (CAA) became a major benefactor to the 2008-2009 scholarship by contributing matching funds. CAA is known nationally for its successful college-planning program, helping high school students decide on a career path—whether in business, technology, science, or the arts—and preparing them to achieve their college goals.

Jeanne Bellamy was one of the Miami Herald’s most well-known reporters, and her 36-year career with the Herald was groundbreaking. She was used to seeing her name linked to the phrase, “The first woman to. . . .” After leaving the Herald, she became active in the Miami business community, where she continued to amass many more “firsts”—including becoming first woman chair of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce.

“Health Care Heroes” Win Scholarships from College Admissions Assistance
Miami, FL—May 1, 2008 (Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce)

Marilu Rios Kernan, Chief Marketing Officer for College Admissions Assistance, LLC, proudly presented a $500 scholarship to each of the two runners-up in the Youth Volunteer category of the 2008 Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce’s annual Health Care Heroes’ award luncheon on May 1st, 2008. Both volunteers were from Miami.

In order to qualify for the Health Care Heroes Youth Volunteer Awards, students must be under the age of 19, and have gone “above and beyond” the scope of their volunteer job(s) in the health care community. They also must be nominated for the award by another person. Winners and runners-up of this year’s competition volunteered in many different areas of health care, organizing fund-raising events for a children’s facility, creating informational brochures on nursing, and holding blood drives, in addition to their regular volunteer duties.

College Admissions Assistance, whose main offices are located in Texas, is dedicated to helping teens reach their educational goals and become happy, successful, financially secure adults.

Merrill Lynch NFTE Regional Business Competition
Miami, FL— April 16, 2008 (College Admissions Assistance)

Marilu Rios Kernan served as a judge for the North Miami Beach Senior High School NFTE Business Plan Competition. Several students from the high school presented their business plans to a group of judges made up of local entrepreneurs and business people.

NFTE (National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship) provides hands-on training to students in low-income communities, teaching them how to start their own businesses. Then those students begin to realize that there is a connection between their academic skills (such as math and reading) and real-life applications. According to NFTE, studies show that students who are taught about entrepreneurship “show a positive change in attitude and strong success orientation, and are more likely to be focused on academic and professional achievements and aspirations and leadership. NFTE’S goal is to give young people the skills and confidence to unlock their true potential, so they find their own pathways to prosperity.”

Marilu Rios Kernan is the Chief Marketing Officer for College Admissions Assistance, LLC (CAA), a company whose own mission is similar to NFTE’s. CAA’s focus is on helping students live out their unique purpose in life by helping them get started with the right college education. CAA has helped thousands of students across the country achieve their college dreams and fulfill their potential.