Where Commerce Meets Counseling: The Reality Check Every Student Needs

In this episode of the CRREST Podcast, we will hear from Jenn Volberding, Associate Director of Scholarships for the University of Maryland Baltimore County. 

During this episode, Jenn touches on:

• why students and families should push through their fear of completing the FAFSA
• the truth about trying to “shake down” the financial aid office
• how parents can talk with their children about the true cost of higher education

With over 29 years of dedicated service in customer excellence, coupled with 8 years of banking experience and more than 13 years of Higher Education expertise, Jenn Volberding, is a seasoned professional committed to empowering students and fostering financial literacy to help them achieve their academic aspirations.

In addition to UMBC, Jenn has worked for the University of Maryland Global Campus and the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Jenn served as a member and leader within the Staff Senate at both institutions as well as Co-Chair of the Board of Regents for the Council of University Staff Systems (CUSS).

Beyond her professional endeavors, Jenn is a dedicated co-founder and Club Director of the nonprofit Lady Aces Volleyball Academy (LAVA) established in 2019. Through LAVA, she passionately cultivates a safe and inclusive space for youth to thrive in sports, emphasizing core values such as Accountability, Confidence, Empowerment, and Selflessness (ACES). Jenn's multifaceted experiences reflect her unwavering commitment to empowering individuals both within and beyond the academic realm.

Connect with Our Guest

• Connect with Jenn Volberding: LinkedIn
• Visit UMBC's Scholarships web page: UMBC Financial Aid and Scholarships

Connect with the Maryland Center for Collegiate Financial Wellness

• Connect with Dr. Tisa Silver Canady: LinkedIn
• Visit MCCFW online: Web
• Follow MCCFW online: Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube
• Have an idea for who should we interview? Suggest our next guest!

The CRREST Podcast is a production of the Maryland Center for Collegiate Financial Wellness. Helping campus-based professionals and community partners bring the CRREST vision to fruition.

To learn more, visit: mccfw.org/podcast

Chapters

• 4:26 What inspired Jenn's commitment to student financial literacy
• 9:27 Is it true that you can call the financial aid office and demand more aid?
• 15:08 Having a conversation with your children about the real cost of higher education
• 21:45 Why it's important to ground your higher education decision in reality
• 28:23 Advice for parents who are afraid of providing information on the FAFSA
• 32:59 How a few minutes with the FAFSA can give your student a fighting chance
• 36:05 Why Maryland's students should create an account with the Maryland Higher Education Commission
• 40:14 How the FAFSA changes impact campuses and their financial aid offices
• 44:12 Jenn's closing thoughts on counseling and encouragement for financial aid administrators