Chloe Martine Perez Capstone

For my capstone project, I created a website called “College Aid Map,” designed to help students and families navigate college financial aid and costs. As a senior at Science Leadership Academy, I understand that the college process can get complicated very quickly. After speaking with other seniors, I realized that I was not the only one getting overwhelmed. Many students and parents begin the process without fully understanding how tuition works, what types of aid are available, or how to compare financial aid offers between schools. I wanted to create a tool that simplifies and provides reliable guidance in one accessible place. The purpose of College Aid Map is to serve as an “anchor source” that students and families can refer to whenever they feel uncertain during the college applications. Instead of searching through dozens of websites online containing information that can get really confusing, users can access clear and concise information and resources in one website. College Aid Map touches on fundamental concepts such as FAFSA, the importance of scholarships, loans and debt, college costs and resources that can help students and families stay organized throughout their journey. While researching for my website, I realized that the lack of understanding financial aid and costs stemmed from the confusing terminology and abundance of information thrown at you. I quickly took communication into account when completing this project to make things clear. College Aid Map can leave people feeling more prepared and informed to navigate the college financial aid process.

Link to website: https://sites.google.com/scienceleadership.org/collegeaidmap/home?authuser=0

Link to bibliography: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sEzivo3up_0EUPr4pcMR8I_WKNBRNDp8jYSU5lf8JHA/edit?usp=sharing