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Testimonials
Parents, students, and adults returning to school share their experiences with our comprehensive college financial aid planning service. These testimonials represent some of our most challenging cases—students who faced significant obstacles in securing funding. We've selected these stories to showcase the complexity of financial aid and the results we help achieve.
Each case required dedicated effort, strategic planning, and personalized guidance. From navigating selective service issues to securing in-state tuition, from maximizing federal grants to finding hidden funding sources—these stories demonstrate what's possible with expert assistance. Take a look at the award letters showing the funding we helped obtain.
Krystal Shaw: Sustaining Merit Scholarships
Student Profile
Krystal Shaw, sophomore at Fairfield University, Westchester County, New York, 2019-2020 school year.
The Challenge
Completing FAFSA and CSS Profile correctly to maintain her $20,000 annual Merit scholarship from Fairfield University.
"With their help and guidance, I am able to sustain my $20,000 Merit scholarship from Fairfield University each year. If you need any guidance with the financial aid process, I highly recommend his service."
Mr. Rivers and Sources for Students provided step-by-step assistance with both the FAFSA and CSS Profile, ensuring all documentation was completed accurately and submitted on time. This guidance proved essential for maintaining substantial merit-based funding throughout her college career.
D'andra Brady: Extra Funding for Transfer Students
Student Status
Junior transfer student at George Mason University, Virginia, 2018-2019
Additional Funding
Secured an extra $3,000 specifically for transfer students
Impact
Reduced tuition burden and made continuing education more affordable
Transfer students often face unique challenges in securing financial aid, as many scholarships and grants prioritize incoming freshmen. Mr. Rivers identified opportunities specifically available to transfer students and helped D'andra navigate the application process to secure additional funding that many transfer students miss.
"Mr. Rivers helped me earn extra money for my tuition. He was really helpful. I would like to thank Mr. Rivers for his helpful advice with the financial aid process."
Bobbi Battle: Maximum Federal and State Aid
$5,815
Federal Pell Grant
Full amount awarded for 2016-2017
$5,165
New York State TAP
Maximum state grant funding
$1,430
SUNY Tuition Credit
Additional institutional support
$12,410
Total Aid Package
Combined funding secured
"Without your guidance I literally would have not known what to do to get the maximum amount of financial aid to pay for college. With your assistance, attending college became possible. Thank You so much."
Bobbi's case demonstrates the importance of understanding how to maximize both federal and state aid programs. By properly completing the FAFSA and understanding eligibility requirements, she received the full amount available from multiple funding sources.
Anthony Fogle: Guiding Parents Through the Process
Natasha Benjamin-Fogle, like most parents, knew nothing about financial aid or the FAFSA when her son Anthony prepared to attend Mercy College. A friend's recommendation led her to Sources for Students, LLC—a call she describes as "one of the best calls I made in my life."
The Parent's Perspective
Many parents feel overwhelmed by the financial aid process, unsure where to start or how to navigate complex forms and requirements.
Comprehensive Support
Paul handled all difficulties in the process, answered questions precisely, and managed all paperwork from beginning to end.
"Paul was there from the beginning to the end helping us with all the paperwork. Paul handled all of the difficulties in the process and answered all of my questions precisely."
This testimonial highlights how Sources for Students supports not just students, but entire families navigating the college funding landscape.
Matthew Brock: Overcoming Selective Service Issues
Matthew Brock's case represents one of the most complex challenges in financial aid: resolving selective service registration issues that can completely block access to federal funding. His testimonial describes Sources for Students as "PHENOMENAL" and highlights the exceptional service that goes beyond typical consulting.
01
Immediate Assistance
Paul began helping before payment was received, demonstrating genuine passion for the work
02
Selective Service Resolution
Overcame eligibility issues that were blocking all federal financial aid
03
Additional Funding Request
Helped request and secure additional funds beyond initial award
04
Dream Realized
Made the move from California to Washington D.C. for college possible
"His experience in financial aid kept me from having to give up my dream of attending college. Paul wants to help and does everything to make himself available."
Matthew emphasizes the money-back guarantee and encourages anyone with doubts to contact him directly, demonstrating his confidence in the service.
Taylor Carter: Middle-Class Family Success
Taylor Carter from Westchester County, New York, represents a common misconception: that middle-class families don't qualify for financial aid. As a student attending Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, Taylor didn't believe she would qualify for assistance and worried about affording college.
Federal Grants
Qualified for federal grant funding despite middle-class income
State Grants
Received New York State grant assistance
Work-Study
Awarded $3,000 in college work-study opportunities
"I was surprised and thankful for Mr. Rivers's patience and counseling in the financial aid process. If any new students attending college or current college students need help in figuring out how to pay for college, I HIGHLY recommend Mr. Rivers and Sources for Students, LLC."
Taylor's case proves that families across income levels can benefit from expert guidance in navigating the financial aid system and identifying all available funding sources.
Briana Rogers: Tax Strategies and Three-Year Turnaround
For three years, Vanessa Rogers applied for financial aid for her daughter Briana and was unable to receive it. This frustrating pattern changed completely when Mr. Rivers implemented strategic tax planning that transformed their financial situation.
1
Tax Preparation
Strategic tax filing resulted in over $20,000 refund
2
Tuition Payment
Used refund to pay down tuition costs
3
FAFSA Success
Qualified for Pell Grant due to tax strategies
"Mr. Rivers did my taxes which resulted in a large refund (over $20,000 in non-traditional college funding), which helped me pay on the tuition. In addition, this time when we applied for financial aid and completed the FAFSA, we qualify for the Pell grant due to Mr. Rivers tax strategies."
Mrs. Rogers emphasizes that they are "proud to have you a part of our team" and have been spreading the word about the wonderful service. This case demonstrates how comprehensive financial planning extends beyond just completing forms.
Shante Edgehill: From $31,000 Debt to Full Funding
Shante Edgehill's story begins with shock and concern: her son faced an outstanding bill of $31,000. What happened next demonstrates the transformative power of expert financial aid consulting and strategic advocacy.
$31K
Initial Outstanding Bill
Starting debt that seemed insurmountable
$28K
First Award
Initial financial aid secured through FAFSA
$2,800
Additional Funding
Extra free money negotiated with college
$30.8K
Total Aid Secured
Nearly complete coverage of costs
"After reviewing the first award letter you strategized with the college by getting us an additional $2,800. I can't imagine anyone completing the financial aid process and getting maximum results without professional help. Mr. Rivers is a wizard. This was a GOD sent miracle!"
The family plans to work with Mr. Rivers until their son graduates, demonstrating the value of ongoing financial aid support throughout the college journey.
Derricka Saunders: Small Business Strategy
Derricka Saunders faced a critical situation: she paid most of her daughter's first-year tuition herself, and without help for the second year, her daughter wouldn't be able to continue college. Paul Rivers provided comprehensive solutions that transformed their situation.
01
Small Business Formation
Advised starting a small business for bigger tax breaks
02
Tax Preparation
Prepared federal taxes strategically to maximize refund
03
FAFSA and TAP
Completed financial aid forms for federal and state funding
04
$6,511 in Free Aid
Secured funding that made second year possible
"With the refund I received from the federal taxes, I was able to take that money and pay my daughter's tuition. Once the FAFSA form was completed and approved, my daughter received $6,511 of FREE financial aid. Now, that may not seem like a lot to some, but it meant the world to my daughter and me."
Derricka emphasizes: "For anyone who might feel a little skeptical about using Sources for Students, LLC, DON'T. Give them a TRY! It is certainly worth it."
Heather Waters: Nearly Full Ride Through Persistence
Tina Lawall spent months searching for help for her sister Heather Waters, who faced extenuating family circumstances and was completely on her own for college. After contacting numerous people who either didn't respond or wanted thousands of dollars, she found Paul Rivers.
The Search
Months of searching online and emailing anyone and everyone for guidance. Most people didn't respond; those who did wanted thousands of dollars upfront.
The Solution
Paul responded quickly, asked only a nominal fee, and helped secure nearly a full ride through different types of funding.
The school lost paperwork and forgot to submit it for over two months. Paul's dedication helped them stay on top of the school and overcome these administrative mistakes. His persistence ensured that bureaucratic errors didn't derail Heather's college dreams.
"I honestly believe without him we wouldn't have received any funding and Heather would have taken out loans. I would recommend Paul to anyone who is looking for some help through the financial aid process. In fact, I am currently using his expertise for graduate school."
In-State Tuition Victory: Cutting Costs in Half
One student faced an impossible situation: out-of-state tuition costs that would prevent returning to school. Through strategic advocacy and personal intervention, Paul Rivers helped secure in-state tuition status, reducing college costs by almost half.
1
Initial Rejection
Ms. Irene Logan rejected the in-state tuition request
2
Letter to President
Paul wrote to the University President requesting intervention
3
Relationship Documentation
Created letter explaining family circumstances to support the case
4
Direct Advocacy
Multiple conversations with Financial Aid Counselor and Admissions Office
5
Face-to-Face Meeting
Student explained situation directly, leading to approval
"I didn't think I was going to be able to come back to school because the tuition was too expensive. Through your advice and encouragement, I was able to receive in-state tuition and reduced my cost for college by almost half, for that I am forever grateful. I consider you more than a Financial Aid Counselor, I consider you a good friend."- Charisse Champion
Family Support: Helping Parents and Students Together
Sources for Students provided comprehensive help for an entire family struggling with college financial forms. The service made the confusing transition from high school to college clear and manageable, while also serving as a source of motivation and faith.
Family-Centered Approach
Help extended to both student and parents, addressing everyone's concerns
Clarity and Understanding
Made complex college financial forms clear and understandable
Motivation and Faith
Shared college experiences to build confidence in students' abilities
Complete Service
100% commitment to assisting with every aspect of the process
"Mr. Rivers is also a motivator; he gives you faith in your own abilities by sharing his college experience. His service doesn't lack anything if you need the help. He is there to assist you. He gives 100% of his service."- Julius W. Brown
The testimonial emphasizes that Mr. Rivers is "the main source for college finance" for families lost in the process.
Laura Eustache: FAFSA Revision and College Advocacy
Laura Eustache learned about Sources for Students through a close friend and received comprehensive services that went far beyond simple form completion. The total funding granted was $7,340, achieved through strategic FAFSA revision and direct college advocacy.
FAFSA Revision
Helped revise FAFSA to receive full amount of qualified funding
College Communication
Called Binghamton's financial aid office to ensure counselor understood situation
Employment Guidance
Provided advice on finding employment opportunities
Scholarship Resources
Directed to appropriate contacts for scholarship opportunities
"He was always available and I feel that the services and the quality of services provided were well worth the investment. I recommend that anyone who may be confused about the process, or just simply need advice and help, should contact Paul."
SUNY Oswego Success: $14,819 in Financial Aid
Initially skeptical about the service after hearing about it from a friend, this student's perspective changed dramatically. What seemed like "just some little service" transformed into the key that unlocked college attendance at SUNY Oswego.
$14,819
Total Financial Aid
Combined assistance through FAFSA, TAP, and other sources
Before
College plans were lost with no clear direction. Uncertainty about where to attend or how to afford it.
After
Confidently attending SUNY Oswego with substantial financial aid package secured.
"At first when I heard about your service from a friend I thought it wasn't a great idea. Boy was I wrong! Not only did the service help me get in the college of my choice but also helped me gain a sufficient amount of financial aid to attend the college of my choice. The service was worth the investment and I definitely would recommend this service to anyone."- Vanessa Samuel
Porsche Brooks: Significantly Improved Award Letter
Porsche Brooks received maximum financial aid through comprehensive guidance that went beyond simple form completion. Sources for Students ensured understanding of every step, maintained proactive communication, and successfully negotiated for improved funding.
01
Strategic FAFSA Completion
Filled out forms in the most beneficial way while ensuring full understanding
02
Managing Intricacies
Navigated complex details that are hard to keep up with independently
03
Timely Submission
Ensured all paperwork was correct and submitted on time
04
Proactive Advocacy
Didn't take no for an answer, pushing for maximum possible aid
"With the guidance of Sources for Students, I was able to SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE my financial aid award letter. The short-term investment is worth every penny because it will help in the long term by increasing funding, finding employment and/or making recommendations for outside scholarships, grants, loans, etc. that you might not be familiar with."
Porsche emphasizes that Sources for Students "can open up doors, sometimes more than one could imagine, for eager students seeking financial funding."
Reducing Loans Through Strategic Negotiation
This student received extraordinary help throughout the entire college process, from filling out applications to scholarship searches. Most significantly, Paul Rivers successfully negotiated with the school to reduce a loan by securing an additional grant.
Application Support
Comprehensive help with filling out college applications
School Communication
Called schools for information and consulted to increase aid packages
Scholarship Research
Conducted thorough scholarship searches
Loan Reduction
Successfully negotiated additional grant to reduce loan burden
"Personally, you have really helped me reduce a loan by calling my school and having them give me another grant. It is really great to know that there are people who truly care about the future of teenagers without having a price on their kindness. Thank you very much for all of your time and care."- Shacoya N. Jackson
SUNY Delhi: From Scrambling to Confidence
When this mother and student first met Mr. Rivers, they were scrambling to find a college with time running out. The immediate intervention and comprehensive support transformed panic into confidence, resulting in successful enrollment at SUNY Delhi College of Technology.
1
Crisis Point
Scrambling to find college, time running out, feeling overwhelmed
2
Immediate Help
Mr. Rivers stepped in with applications, FAFSA, and all concerns
3
Ongoing Support
Available anytime for concerns, providing continuous guidance
"Mr. Rivers immediately stepped in and helped us with the college applications, FAFSA and other minute concerns. He made us feel assure that everything was being taken care of. At anytime I have a concern, I just call Mr. Rivers and he helps me with anything. Mr. Rivers is a true source for students planning to attend college."- Evans Dicudonne
The testimonial emphasizes the peace of mind that comes from knowing expert help is always available throughout the college journey.
College Without High School Diploma: $9,000+ in Aid
This remarkable case demonstrates how Sources for Students helps students overcome unique barriers. The challenge: finding a college that would accept a student without a high school diploma while securing over $9,000 in financial aid.
Unique Challenge
No high school diploma, creating significant admission barriers
College Acceptance
Found college willing to accept student despite credential gap
$9,000+ in Aid
Secured substantial financial aid despite unusual circumstances
"Thank you for all your help in getting me into college. Without your help I would still be wondering how I would pay for college. Sources for Students helped me get over $9,000 in financial aid and help me find a college that would accept me without my high school diploma. Any problems or questions I had were taken care of and I gained an understanding of the college system and how it worked."- Deidre Hope Streeter
Justin Phillips: Single Parent Success Story
Justin Phillips comes from a single parent home where his mother couldn't afford the cost of college. This common situation often derails college dreams, but with Mr. Rivers' help, Justin secured all the funding needed to attend Tompkins Cortland Community College.
$11,530
Total Funding Secured
Complete financial aid package for community college attendance
The Challenge
Single parent household with limited financial resources. College seemed financially impossible.
The Outcome
Dreams of attending college became reality through comprehensive financial aid.
"I come from a single parent home and my mother could not afford the cost of college. But thanks to Mr. Rivers, I have all the funding I need to attend Tompkins Cortland Community College and my dreams of going to college came true."
Making College Dreams Reality
A parent's perspective on the anxiety of college planning reveals how Sources for Students transforms worry into confidence. While packing for the dorm room, many families wonder where all the money will come from—this is where expert guidance makes the difference.
FAFSA Applications
Expert guidance through complex federal aid forms
Scholarship Hunting
Navigating millions of scholarship programs
Grant Acquisition
Securing much-needed grant funding
"His professional knowledge and information can make a tremendous difference in your sources. Whether it full or partial aid, Mr. Rivers can and will make it happen. Sources Students is highly recommended for college life. If you want the degree, 'Sources' is the place to be!"- Joyce Williams
The parent emphasizes that Mr. Rivers made the "necessary breakthrough needed" for their daughter to continue in higher education.
Cheryl Williams: Discovering Unknown Options
Cheryl Williams recommends Sources for Students to every college student and parent regardless of income level. Her testimonial emphasizes a crucial point: many families don't know what financial assistance is available to them until they receive expert evaluation.
Income-Blind Service
Valuable for families at all income levels, not just low-income
Unknown Options
Discovered financial assistance they didn't know existed
Significant Help
Achieved financial assistance that made college possible
"I recommend Sources for Students to every college student and parent regardless of income to evaluate income options. It has significantly helped my daughter and I achieve financial assistance that we otherwise did not know what was available to us. Forever Grateful, Brooklyn, N.Y."
The "Forever Grateful" signature speaks to the lasting impact of finding funding that transforms educational opportunities.
First-Generation College Student Success
As the first person in the family to attend college, this student faced the challenge of navigating an unfamiliar process without family experience to guide them. Mr. Rivers became an advocate for their education, making dreams of attending Oswego State University a reality.
1
Unknown Territory
First in family to attend college, unfamiliar with enrollment procedures
2
Constant Support
Mr. Rivers available whenever needed, providing guidance at every step
3
Educational Advocacy
Became an advocate for education, helping navigate the system
4
Dreams Realized
Small dreams turned into big realities, attending Oswego State University
"I am the first person in my family to attend college so I didn't know the procedure that one must take in order to enroll, however you helped me and became an advocate for my education. You gave of your time unselfishly and you made a way out of no way. You turned small dreams into big realities."- Tanshelle Brown
Iona College: Eliminating Fears and Stress
This student's testimonial highlights how Sources for Students eliminated fears during the college process and provided a smooth transition from high school to college. Now attending Iona College in New Rochelle, New York, the student credits the service with making the accomplishment stress-free.
Fear Elimination
Removed anxiety and uncertainty about the college process
Dependable Support
Always available for comfort and helpful advice, regardless of situation
Smooth Transition
Resources provided enabled seamless move from high school to college
Ongoing Connection
Continues to update counselor on accomplishments and progress
"Your generosity was deeply appreciated. Sources for Students helped me in tremendous ways and eliminated my fears. No matter what the situation or problem I always knew that I could depend on Sources for Students to give me the comfort and helpful advice. This accomplishment would not have been stress free without your expertise in the field of the college admission process."- Samiyrah T. Bennet
The student now serves as a liaison to refer other freshmen to Sources for Students.
Maximum Financial Aid Achievement
A straightforward testimonial that emphasizes the core value proposition: Sources for Students is a great place for students to obtain maximum financial aid. The recommendation is clear and unequivocal for anyone trying to secure funding for college.
100%
Maximum Aid Focus
Dedicated to securing the highest possible financial aid for each student
"Sources for Students is a great place for students to obtain maximum financial aid. I recommend Sources for Students to all who is trying to obtain financial aid."- Christopher E. Thuesday
While brief, this testimonial reinforces the consistent theme across all student experiences: Sources for Students delivers results by maximizing available funding through expert knowledge and strategic application of financial aid principles.
Shawn W. Ashe: Returning to School Success
Overcoming Selective Service Barriers
Shawn W. Ashe's case represents one of the most challenging situations for adults returning to school: being denied financial aid due to selective service registration issues. After taking out expensive private EDUCAID Select loans for two years, he found Sources for Students and everything changed.
01
Initial Contact
Called same day after receiving information, immediately began working
02
Multi-Agency Coordination
Contacted school, selective services, covered every angle possible
03
Strategic Language
Provided specific language to use when school tried final resistance
04
Complete Victory
Now receiving both federal and state aid, attending full-time
"Had it not been for Mr. Rivers, I would still be using private loans for only two classes. Now I am in school full time and can expect to graduate at an earlier date. Mr. Rivers is truly a man that works hard for his clients. If you have any doubts about what I am saying to be true, you can contact me at 646-256-7893."
Shawn's willingness to provide his phone number demonstrates his confidence in the service and desire to help others in similar situations.
Danisha Parsons: Single Mother Returns to School
Danisha Parsons, a 26-year-old single mother, always wanted to return to school but didn't know where to start. Her testimonial shows how Sources for Students helps adult learners navigate the path back to education and secure substantial funding.
$4,050
Pell Grant
Federal grant funding secured
$2,950
TAP Grant
New York State assistance
$400
Book Allowance
Additional funding for expensive textbooks
$7,400
Total Aid
Combined funding package
"I've always wanted to go back to school but I didn't know where to start. I am just writing this letter to say thank you for all of your help, you have showed me the way. The grants were a big help to me. Now, I am in school and I am doing fine. Once again I would like to say thank you Paul for helping me get back on the road to my future goals of being successful."
New York University: $14,114 Award Package
Attending New York University became possible through expert guidance and diligence. This student's financial aid award package of $14,114 for Fall 2003 and Spring 2004 exceeded expectations, demonstrating how strategic planning can make even expensive private universities accessible.
Prestigious Institution
New York University, known for high costs and competitive admissions
$14,114 Award
Substantial financial aid package for full academic year
Exceeded Expectations
Award amount surpassed what student thought possible
"I am please to inform you that because of your guidance and expertise in your field, my financial aid award package is $14,114 for the Fall 2003 and Spring 2004 terms. I will be able to attend New York University due to your diligence. The award even exceeded my expectations. Thank you, for your efforts that made my enrollment possible."- Terrie Lewis
Maximum Government Funds: $8,850 Annual Award
This testimonial emphasizes the importance of having financial aid documents prepared before enrollment. By working with Sources for Students, this student had tuition funding waiting before even enrolling in their chosen college, receiving the maximum available government funds.
1
Proactive Preparation
Financial aid documents prepared before college enrollment
2
Funding Ready
Tuition money waiting upon enrollment
3
Maximum Award
$8,850 yearly for Fall 2003 and Spring 2004
"After applying, Sources for Students prepared my financial aid documents, so my tuition for the school year was waiting for me before I enrolled in the college of my choice. Mr. Rivers was dependable, friendly, trustworthy and responsible for me receiving the maximum of government funds."- Baron Bradshaw
The student highlights Mr. Rivers' key qualities: dependable, friendly, trustworthy, and responsible—attributes that build confidence in the service.
Returning After 10 Years: Stress-Free Transition
Returning to college after a 10-year absence presents unique challenges and stress. This testimonial highlights how Paul Rivers' pleasant personality, abundant knowledge, and strong commitment made the return to education exciting rather than overwhelming.
Pleasant Personality
Approachable and supportive throughout the process
Abundant Knowledge
Deep expertise in financial aid and college systems
Strong Commitment
Dedicated to student success and stress reduction
Informational Resources
Access to many books and tapes for guidance
"The stress of going back to college after 10 years is relieved by having access to so many informational books and tapes. I would recommend 'Sources for Students' to everyone returning to school!"- Cheryle Terry
The emphasis on stress relief is particularly important for adult learners balancing education with work and family responsibilities.
Graduate School Success at NYU
This graduate student testimonial demonstrates how Sources for Students supports education at all levels, not just undergraduate programs. Applying to graduate school at New York University presented significant financial challenges, but the service provided crucial guidance and empowerment.
01
Big Decision
Applying to graduate school required careful consideration
02
Acceptance Challenge
After receiving NYU acceptance, paying for program became the true challenge
03
Business Approach
Viewing education as business decision prepared student for finding resources
04
Multiple Funding Sources
Secured numerous grants and scholarships previously thought impossible
"Your approach of viewing education as a business decision, prepared me for the task of finding the adequate resources. In doing this, I was able to secure a number of grants and scholarships. This is something that I believed was impossible, but you empowered me to succeed. Your insight and commitment to assist students is extremely valuable."- Gregory Paul
The student continues to inform colleagues and clients of the services, demonstrating professional-level confidence in the results.
Alwyn Cargill: From Apprehension to Achievement
Alwyn Cargill's testimonial beautifully captures the journey from skepticism to gratitude. What began as a chance meeting while making copies evolved into a transformative relationship that made culinary arts education possible.
1
Chance Meeting
Met while making copies, initial apprehension about services
2
Recommendation to Others
Recommended services to family and friends before using them personally
3
Personal Need Realized
Discovered he needed the services most for culinary arts school
4
Extensive Research
Worked together to find schools offering Culinary Arts programs
5
Complete Support
All financial aid paperwork handled, mentorship provided
6
Scholarship Achievement
Secured scholarship and faculty recognition as promising student
"I feel your interest; your willingness to help was that of a big brother. I feel you saw me, not as a client or number, but a young brother to whom you were imparting wisdom and knowledge. When I say thank you, it is not only from me but also from my family and friends who you have helped."
Alwyn's story exemplifies the personal, mentorship-focused approach that distinguishes Sources for Students from typical consulting services.