Distinguished Contributor Archives

Using Your 529

How 529 Plans Can Help Students Prepare for the Future of Work

While parents worry about rising college costs and return on education investments, students are often concerned about finding a path that they will enjoy, and one that will still be…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.March 16, 2026

College Admissions Parenting

College Decisions and The Power of The Pause

After a long and possibly stressful college search and application process, the desire to wrap it up swiftly can be strong -- but doing just the opposite can be a…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.March 11, 2026

Affording College College Admissions Parenting Senior Student

Minimizing Stress in the Homestretch

Whether faced with indecision about which school to attend, disappointment resulting from a dream school rejection, and/or uncertainty associated with being placed on a waitlist, soon-to-be college students may need…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.March 11, 2026

Parenting

Common Questions About Planning For College

Let's break down three common concerns we hear from parents and identify what you can do to address them. 1. How can I ensure my child applies to schools that…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.March 5, 2026

Parenting

Debunking the Headlines: A Closer Look at the Importance of College

Recent Gallup polling reported a sharp decline in how Americans view the importance of a college education: those saying an undergraduate degree is “very important” fell from 75% in 2010…

Mitchel A. BaumFebruary 24, 2026

Parenting

College Pays. Especially in California.

Strata Education Foundation is a nonprofit, founded in 2010, dedicated to strengthening the connection between education and career opportunities. They publish an annual report on the return on investment of…

Mitchel A. BaumFebruary 23, 2026

Parenting Senior Student

The Skills That Get You the Job—and Why College Still Matters

But the question is, which skills? The basic technical skills needed to do most jobs are the price of entry. You don’t get an interview or get past HR unless…

Mitchel A. BaumFebruary 22, 2026

Senior Student Uncategorized

New Year Resolutions for Parents of High School Seniors

The start of the new year is a fitting time to consider some resolutions that can serve you well in the months ahead. Resolve to: 1. Discuss college costs and…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.January 10, 2026

Parenting

Resolutions for Soon-to-be Empty Nesters

Here are five resolutions to guide soon-to-be empty nesters through a transformative year ahead: 1. Reflect on your contributions with pride. While focusing on what’s next for your child, take…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.January 6, 2026

Using Your 529

Inviting Loved Ones to Join You on Your College Savings Journey

As the year winds down, parents of high schoolers may feel excitement for the future mixed with financial worry about whether they’ve yet saved enough for college or started too…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.December 7, 2025

College Admissions

Practicing Discretion During the College Application Journey

As a parent, you’ve undoubtedly watched your child work hard for years -- balancing school, activities, family, and social life, and whatever else has come their way. Now, the time…

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.November 6, 2025

Parenting Videos

How Much To Share About Your College Decisions

Wisdom about what and when to share info about your college decisions from college savings advocate, Patricia Roberts. Tips from someone who’s been there–done that. 4974234

Patricia A. Roberts, J.D.October 28, 2025

Distinguished Contributor

Trending Posts

Tags

Latest Articles

Categories

Security Overview

OUR SECURITY PROMISE:

Safeguarding your own information: Account owner security checklist

Protect your account

Protect your computers, cell phone and other mobile devices

Keep your information secure

Practice safe web browsing

Create a strong password

Stay informed on the latest fraud threats

About Identity Theft

Identity theft prevention & protecting your personal information

Safeguarding your information and online transactions strong technologies and technical controls

Username and password requirements

Image verification during login

Security Questions

Customer verification

Strong encryption

Systems surveillance

Firewalls

Logging

Fraud detection

Restricted access to data

Employee education

Regularly refine and update security features