When to Look for Scholarships

For those of you who frequently reach out to me and ask… when is a good time to look for educational scholarships?  This is for you!   And the answer is fairly simply… ALL THE TIME.

In my years of experience not only allocating scholarships but also assisting third parties with their selection, there is always a scholarship without a recipient.  This happens quite often when students fail to apply or simply do not think they meet the terms of the scholarship criteria.

My recommendation to those inquiring is to begin researching scholarship opportunities during your junior year in high school.  Fastweb and college/university scholarship lists are helpful in locating the top scholarships.

Some amazing foundations I have worked with include the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, Dresher Foundation and Horatio Alger Association.  These groups are known to award scholarships to cover tuition and fees, and fund students across the nation.

Applying early to your top colleges may also guarantee greater opportunities for institutional based scholarships and grants that you are not required to payback.  However, these more than likely will require students to maintain a specific grade point average (GPA) and/or consistent enrollment status.

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form is available earlier beginning in October 2016 to allow students a clear 360 view of what types of aid will be awarded to them at each college they’ve applied to.

Scholarships are available for all students at each level of their academic career; it is simply all about taking the time to do research, asking questions and applying to opportunities multiple times of the year.  Don’t just get caught up in the hype of admissions applications, make sure you explore the free money applications as well!

 

Be financially smart--

Keia Brown

Late to the Party

You know the saying “fashionable late?”  Well that only applies to parties and not the real world.  One specific place that lateness is not recommended is when applying for financial aid and free money.  I know because I live it each and every day!

 Being tardy for a free opportunity is unacceptable and having your name at the tip of others’ tongue is not always a good thing.  For example, for the last three years, 37% - 41% of incoming college students waited until the scholarship deadline to actually apply.  Now, even though these students made the deadline, they still displayed an image of waiting till the last minute and a work ethic of procrastination.   Is that the way you want to be regarded when being considered for a scholarship?

Instead, make a personal commitment to be early for the party (or at least on time).  When applying for free money:

List eligible scholarships.  Determine what scholarships you are eligible to apply for and make a list of their deadlines chronologically.

Make a schedule.  Mark your calendar with deadlines and plan timeframe of when to apply.  Make sure you are aware of everything required in completing each application (i.e. essays, transcripts, recommendations, etc). 

Submit your application.  Whether it is an online application or paper, don’t wait till the last minute to apply!  You never know when the web server goes down or the USPS mail could delay your package. 

Confirm and follow up.  Track your package if you mail it to foundation/committee.  If online, ensure you receive a confirmation and follow-up to see there are no additional documents necessary for consideration.

Remember, free money for college depends upon your timeliness!

Be financially smart--

Keia Brown

My Winter Favs

This year, I was thankful to have two full weeks off of work (yeah to working in higher education) and use the time to unwind, relax and enjoy company.  I also took advantage of the sales and clearance discounts around the Christmas holiday.  

One of the items I asked for Christmas was a product to add to my Henri Bendel classic travel collection.  Excitedly, I unwrapped a brown and white signature box with the HB's Hanging Cosmetic Case!  Wit this addition, I match with my large  and small make-up case when I'm traveling.  The case is a coated canvas and includes five earring or ring enclosures.

http://www.henribendel.com/brown-white-hanging-cosmetic-case-27941863660193.html?cgid=travel_cosmetic&start=20

Thankfully, I finally have my very own Ninja Master Prep to conjure up some yummy smoothies for my breakfast and lunches on the go.  This fun new toy can easily make quick dishes used for healthy snacks or delicious desserts.

And finally, something that will accompany me and the extreme organizer I am.   I chose to treat myself to a new 2016-17 day planner that is fun and bright for the new year from Lilly Pultizer!

http://www.lillypulitzer.com/product/sale/jumbo-agenda-scuba-to-cuba/c/265/8310.uts?swatchName=Turquoise+Scuba+To+Cuba+White

 

Check in with me later this month for January/February Favs!

XoXo- Key

New Year, New Aspirations #2016

Happy New Year #2016!  I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable New Years Eve.  With a new year, always brings new goals, dreams and aspirations.  Day 1 of 365 allows us all to reflect on what big plans we want to achieve for the rest of the year.  I have already begun drawing up my personal goals for 2016 and here they are:

1. Visit my dream destination and travel frequently.
2. Develop my business plan.
3. Pick up a new sport or hobby.
4. Reinvent myself.
5. Cook and bake more often.

So what's your  new years resolution?

XoXo - Keia

Nation's Capital Troop #6395

On Sunday, September 13, 2015, I had the pleasure of traveling to Northern Virginia to speak to an Ambassador Girl Scout troop of the Nation's Capital Council.  These high school aged girls participated in one of the first Financial Smarts for Students Workshops for the 2015-16 academic year.

Financial Aid Resources

The workshop session provided both the girls and their parents with information on the college admissions process, financial aid resources and funding their education for a debt-free future!  The girls were a delight to interact with throughout the afternoon and I was blessed to hear awesome questions from them regarding their interest in earning college scholarships and expectations during their first year as a student.  I was in great company and enjoyed meeting the families one-on-one and hearing their stories.

Ambassadors of Girl Scout Troop 6395

Dear Keia, 

Thank you again for coming to talk to our Ambassador troop and Grace (from a sister Senior troop).

Your presentation was superb, and really helped a lot not only the parents but especially the girls.  My daughter (Kendra) talked about it for several hours afterwards to include strategizing  this morning about how to approach which teachers for recommendations and setting up college visits.

I will talk to our TOGA teen scout coordinator and definitely pass along your info and highly recommend your presentation.

And...we look forward to proudly adding your patch to the girls' uniform!

Sincerely, 

 Joanna Esty

Thank you to Girl Scout Troop 6395 for the invitation!

Paying it forward,

Keia Brown
Miss District of Columbia International 2015

Financial Smarts Workshops Exclusively for Girl Scouts

Exciting News!  I am thrilled to host Financial Smarts Literacy Workshops exclusively for the girls of several Girl Scout Councils along the east coast for the 2015-16 year.  Some of the councils already aboard include, Central Maryland, Heart of Pennsylvania and Jersey Shore.  Within the next few weeks, additional dates will be posted for these sessions, including more councils I have partnered with to offer my free workshops in collaboration with the Girl Scouts of America's financial literacy program.

In addition to a heightened schedule this year, the Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania have been instrumental in my efforts throughout the organization, that a Financial Smarts for Students patch has been designed exclusively for my special workshops.

Councils interested in offering one of my workshops, may contact me directly for additional information and availability.

Upcoming Workshops

Girl Scouts of Nation's Capital: September 13, 2015

Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania: November 16, 2015

Girl Scouts of Central Maryland: Fall 2015

Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania: Winter 2016

Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore: April 16, 2016

Girl Scouts of Greater New York: Spring 2016

Paying It Forward,

Keia Brown
Miss District of Columbia International 2015

2015 Miss International Pageant Week

Arrival/Orientation

2015 Miss International Pageant Week was held July 27 - August 1, 2015 in Jacksonville, Florida.  I had the opportunity to meet over 30 women across the globe as we competed for the title of Miss International.  Below are some of the photos I was able to capture in the Sunshine State, along with competition shots on stage at the Time-Union Theater.

 

Opening Number

Fitness Wear

Fun Fashion Wear

Menchie's of Pablo Creek Plaza Fundraiser

Yesterday afternoon I had the honor of meeting residents of Jacksonville at the Menchie's of Pablo Creek Plaza.  The franchise, owned by Cory & Catherine Courtney, hosted a meet & greet for me and fundraiser to benefit the Pace Center for Girls. 

Cory & Catherine Courtney

Menchie's Frozen Yogurt serves yummy desserts and host parties in bright and vibrant locations throughout the United States.  But Menchie's also has a mission...to give back to the community.  I reached out to the national headquarters in regards to organizing a fundraiser to benefit the Pace Center for Girls, a well-known non-profit organization in Florida.  Pace provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy.  

I was excited to be contacted by franchise co-owner, Catherine Courtney of Menchie's of Pablo Creek Plaza to host a fundraiser.  She and her family encouraged customers to donate school supplies and/or bath & beauty supplies for the Pace Center.  During my meet & greet, I also had the opportunity to discuss my platform, Financial Smarts for Students: Reducing Student Loan Debt with local Floridians.

Connecting with the Courtney Family was a true blessing.  They are a beautiful family and their compassion to make a difference in their community and their warm southern hospitality is inspirational.  Thank you for hosting the fundraiser and welcoming me as extended family.

Courtney Family

Please stop by Menchie's Frozen Yogurt at the Pablo Creek Plaza and support these new business owners!  Address: 3267 Hodges Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32224

Paying it forward,

Keia Brown
Miss District of Columbia International 2015


Media: http://www.jaxmomsblog.com/event/menchies-back-to-school-donations-for-pace-center-for-girls/

HigherEdNotDebt Partnership

I have had an amazing journey promoting my platform to reduce student loan debt and implement financial literacy in schools across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia.  While attending Generation Progress' ‎Make Progress Summit 2015, I was approached by the Campaign Manager, Ms. Maggie Thompson to discuss establishing a partnership with Higher Ed, Not Debt. After meeting with some of her staff and discussing ways to incorporate my knowledge and interest in the need to reduce student loan debt, I have partnered with the organization to be a spokesperson, speaker and partner.

To give you a little bit of background, Higher Ed, Not Debt is an organization, part of Generation Progress, which is a multi-year campaign dedicated to tackling the nation's $1.2 trillion student loan crisis.  They offer resources for college students and graduates with repayment options, refinancing of student loans, loan servicer disputes and leading campaigns which encourage all to write to congress about this devastating issue. 

This past week, I participated in my first Higher Ed, Not Debt Team Conference Call to discuss Connecticut's Bill of Rights implementation, NASFAA's observance on Corinthian students and other for profit colleges.  As a spokesperson for this organization, I will work with other fellow partners to speak to students at colleges and universities on the challenges of repaying student loan debt.  I will encourage them to get involved and write to their local House Representatives to make reducing student loan debt and the cost of college a national priority.

Paying it forward,

Keia Brown

Miss District of Columbia International 2015

One Week Until Jacksonville Bound!

With only one week left until I leave for Jacksonville, I would like to take this time to thank all my sponsors and supporters throughout my journey this year!  I am overwhelmed with love from those who have reached out with kind words, motivation and support.  I am deeply humbled to represent the District of Columbia in the 2015 Miss International Pageant and pray that I make you proud!

Thank YOU to my Sponsors!

COMPANY SPONSORS

Menchie's of Pablo Creek Plaza- Fundraiser Host benefiting Florida nonprofit organization.
Miss Fit Gym - Free year membership and personal training at the best women's gym on the planet!

INDIVIDUAL DONORS
Morgan Aguirre
Christina Anderson
Erin Ard
Joey Bellon
Kevin Brown
Jacquelyn Cornish
Elaine Iseley
Shelley Sharkey (Miss Fit Owner)
Cynthia & Lawrence Tapp
Lakitta Wright

PARTNERSHIPS
American Heart Association of Greater Washington Region
Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County
Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County
Girl Scouts of Central Maryland
Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania
SponsorChange.Org and Co-Founder, Raymar Hampshire


And last but definitely not least, my Mother, Sharon "Momager" Brown!  Thank you for loving and supporting me throughout this journey.  It has been a fabulous 10 months of appearances, charity events, and travel opportunities!  I LOVE YOU.

Paying it forward,

Keia  Brown
Miss District of Columbia International 2015

Generation Progress' Make Progress Summit 2015

 Yesterday, I had the privilege to attend the 2015 Make Progress Summit in Washington, D.C. to join with other young "change makers" across the U.S.  Make Progress is an annual event hosted by Generation Progress, a national organization that empowers, engages, and mobilizes young people around progressive policy issues.  The all-day event was held at the beautiful Walter E. Washington Conference Center where we were greeted with enthusiastic staff members anxious to get the day underway.

I was honored to be approached by the campaign manager of HigherEdNotDebt, Ms. Maggie Thompson who said she has been following my social media for months and was thrilled to have me attend.  The morning begin with breakfast and an exciting welcome from Generation Progress' Executive Director, Anne Johnson to start off the day.  I sat at a table with a super group of young people inspired for change in our nation.  They represented the states of California, Massachusetts and Oregon.  The entire room was filled with positive energy from all attendees and the GP staff ensured everyone was having a great time.

Among the guest speakers Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden spoke about Millennials impact to the country.   Senator Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts, one of the morning speakers spoke about her passion to reduce student loan debt and make college affordable for all who want to pursue a higher education.

Additional guest speakers included Nancy Pelosi, Secretary Thomas E. Perez and Tina Tchen, Assistant to the President.  GP also offered three break out sessions, one specifically geared towards student loan debt which I was especially excited to attend.  There was an outstanding panel, including Senator Tammy Baldwin (WI) and Rohit Chopra, Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress and former regulator at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.  They were extremely happy to hear that my year as Miss District of Columbia International has been dedicated to bringing awareness to the issue of student loan debt and the demand for financial literacy among young people worldwide.

Student Loan Debt Panel

At the conclusion of the event, I received an invitation to partner with HigherEdNotDebt and its efforts to help spread the message about student loan debt throughout the globe.  I left the day with a cool attendee "swag bag" from Generation Progress!

Thank you to everyone at Center for American Progress and Generation Progress for making #MakeProgress 2015 a fun-filled and enlightening day!

Paying it forward,

Keia  Brown
Miss District of Columbia International 2015

Summer Preparation for College: Financial Aid Tips

Congratulations High School Graduate!  Summer has begun and this is the time to relax and enjoy your freedom from all those years of high school.  But wait!  Have you considered what you should be doing in preparation for college as a new freshman in the Fall?  Besides shopping for dorm room accessories, have you considered how your financial aid will help cover all your expenses throughout the semester?

Here are some financially smart tips to help ensure your financial aid refund monies last throughout your fall semester:

1.    Create an expense spreadsheet.  

• Sit down with your parents and prepare a budget for  the total cost of tuition, fees and room and board. 
• Consider your expected financial aid (scholarships, grants and any student loans needed) for the fall semester. 
• Determine the amount of your financial aid refund (financial aid minus fees).
• Calculate your fall semester textbooks and materials fees. Allow for funds such as gas, transportation costs, extracurricular costs for education (museum trips, honors program fees, etc.)
• If you will have a roommate, how much
• Allow money for food and extracurricular activities.  You may want to keep snacks in your room for late night study sessions.  And if you want to experience the total college life, you will need to have a bit of fun (i.e. movie tickets, college events, dinner off-campus with friends, etc.)

2.   Increase your "free money" options.

The cost of college textbooks ranges from $500 - $750 per semester. Therefore, receiving small and moderate scholarship dollars can be extremely helpful when covering costs versus directly out-of-pocket.

• Search for available scholarships and grants offered through local organizations and corporate offices (civic organizations, rotary clubs, credit unions, parents' employers, etc.)
• Contact your previous or current employers to inquire if there are any employee benefits which offer college scholarships.
• Continue to check your scholarship profile accounts (FASTWEB, Scholarships.com) for additional funding opportunities.
• ALWAYS have a generic essay/statement you can use to attach to any scholarship application. This will ensure that your application is promptly concerned.

3.  Contact your Financial Aid Office.

• Ensure your school's financial aid office has all the required documents from you in order to process your aid.
• Ask your counselor if there are any additional scholarships available.
• Select your preferred financial aid refund method before the semester begins.Most colleges offer check, ACH transfers or debit card refund methods through their bursars’ office for financial aid students. 

Being proactive now, before your first semester begins, will help eliminate increased anxiety and promote readiness to a great start to your freshmen year!  For additional tips on financial aid college preparedness, contact your financial aid office or e-mail questions to MissDCInternational@gmail.com.

Paying it Forward,

Keia Brown

Miss District of Columbia International 2015