Season 4 Episode 1 is out now!

Episodes

It’s an Unexpected Cost Matter
March 14, 2026

It’s an Unexpected Cost Matter

Tuition is the number families prepare for. Everything around it is what catches them off guard. In this episode, we walk through the real costs of college that don't always show up on the official bill — from dorm setup and ...
It's a Scholarship and Merit Aid Matter
March 8, 2026

It's a Scholarship and Merit Aid Matter

Scholarships are more than awards — they are one of the most powerful tools families have to reduce borrowing and shape long-term affordability. In this episode, we break down the difference between merit and need-based aid,...
It's a Student Loan and Parent PLUS Matter
March 1, 2026

It's a Student Loan and Parent PLUS Matter

Borrowing for college often happens gradually — one gap at a time. In this episode, Laura breaks down what every family needs to know about federal student loans and Parent PLUS loans before financial aid offers arrive. From ...
It’s a Texas Tuition Assistance Matter
Feb. 22, 2026

It’s a Texas Tuition Assistance Matter

Texas leads the nation in tuition assistance and promise programs, but many families misunderstand what “free tuition” really means. In this episode, we break down how Texas tuition promise programs work, who qualifies, what ...
It's a FAFSA and SAI Matter
Feb. 15, 2026

It's a FAFSA and SAI Matter

"My student will have a job and pay their own expenses, so they're independent for FAFSA, right?" Wrong…and that mistake costs families thousands in aid eligibility every year. In this episode, Laura breaks down the Free Appl...
It's a Financial Aid Offer Matter
Feb. 9, 2026

It's a Financial Aid Offer Matter

Description: Financial aid offers are confusing...but they don't have to be. In this episode, Laura breaks down exactly what a financial aid offer actually means, and how to compare schools by NET cost instead of sticker pric...
It’s a College Cost Matter
Feb. 1, 2026

It’s a College Cost Matter

Why do so many families feel blindsided by college costs even when they plan ahead? This episode reframes what “paying for college” really means and sets the foundation for a season focused on clarity, timing, and better-info...
It's a Texas A&M International University Matter
Nov. 16, 2024

It's a Texas A&M International University Matter

Tune in to our season finale and explore the distinctive features of TAMIU with Mirian Granados. From automatic admissions to extensive scholarship tiers and a supportive environment, learn how TAMIU stands out as a top educa...
It's a Texas A&M Engineering Academy Matter
Nov. 9, 2024

It's a Texas A&M Engineering Academy Matter

Join us for an engaging conversation on the "Moments that Matter" podcast with Maricruz Hinojosa from Texas A&M Engineering Academy at South Texas College. In this episode we explore the benefits of local learning, unique pat...
It's a Merit Scholarship Matter
Nov. 2, 2024

It's a Merit Scholarship Matter

In this episode we focus on the often-overlooked advantages of merit scholarships. Learn how to assess eligibility, find colleges that reward talent, and strategically plan your college budget Don’t let the cost of attendance...
It's a Return of the UTRGV Financial Aid Office Matter
Oct. 26, 2024

It's a Return of the UTRGV Financial Aid Office Matter

In this episode we welcome the return of Roman Silva and Felipe Olivarez. We discuss the challenges of the 24-25 financial aid cycle, share tips for completing FAFSA forms, and highlight the importance of completing the FAFSA...
It's a Texas State University Matter
Oct. 19, 2024

It's a Texas State University Matter

In this episode, we talk with Mariana Espinoza and Nancy Nerio from Texas State University’s Global Admissions. Learn about admission requirements, scholarships, student life, and the unique opportunities TXST offers. Whether...
It’s a University of Houston- Victoria Matter
Oct. 12, 2024

It’s a University of Houston- Victoria Matter

In this episode we sit down with Devlin Flanary, Manager of Regional Recruitment at the University of Houston-Victoria, to discuss UHV’s academic programs, admissions requirements, and scholarship opportunities. Parents of pr...
It's a UTRGV Scholarship Matter
Oct. 5, 2024

It's a UTRGV Scholarship Matter

Scholarship Coordinator Teresa Villarreal joins us to discuss UTRGV scholarships, current opportunities, deadlines, and advice for incoming freshmen, transfers, and graduate students. Learn how to apply, tips for success, and...
It's a Tuition Assistance Program Matter
Sept. 21, 2024

It's a Tuition Assistance Program Matter

Join us on the Moments That Matter podcast as we break down various tuition assistance programs available for students in Texas. In this episode, we provide information on programs offered by multiple state universities, incl...
It’s a Speech Language Pathology Assistant Matter
Sept. 14, 2024

It’s a Speech Language Pathology Assistant Matter

In this episode we talk with Karina Lopez, a first-generation college graduate and Speech Language Pathology Assistant. Karina shares her journey through Texas A&M-Kingsville and UTRGV, discussing the challenges of leaving ho...
It's a Youth Vote Matter
Sept. 7, 2024

It's a Youth Vote Matter

It’s a Youth Vote Matter In this episode we’re joined by Michael Sanchez and Vicente Martinez from Texas Turnout Rio Grande Valley, a nonpartisan nonprofit, to discuss the critical role of the youth vote. Learn how students c...
It's an Empty Nester Matter
Aug. 31, 2024

It's an Empty Nester Matter

In this episode, we welcome back Celina, who has just become an empty nester. We explore her fresh experiences, the emotional highs and lows of dropping off her youngest at college, and the challenges she faces in this new ch...
It's an Underemployment Matter
Aug. 24, 2024

It's an Underemployment Matter

In episode 2 we explore underemployment—why it happens and how it affects college graduates. Learn how major, institution choice, and internships impact career success, and get practical advice to help you navigate the colleg...
It's a College Readiness Matter
Aug. 17, 2024

It's a College Readiness Matter

In this new episode of Moments that Matter , we explore whether students are truly college-ready. We discuss challenges, practical tips, and essential support services to help students thrive in their academic journey. Tune i...
It's a Summertime Matter
April 13, 2024

It's a Summertime Matter

Summertime will be upon us soon! In this final episode of Season 2, we provide some parent to parent advice on how to guide your rising Senior, college bound student or current college student over the summer months. August w...
It's an SAT/ACT Matter
April 6, 2024

It's an SAT/ACT Matter

In this episode, we discuss UT Austin's decision to reinstate standardized test requirements for applicants and what this means for your student. Join us as we discuss this shift among top universities, plus the important cha...
It's a Student Loan Limit Matter
March 30, 2024

It's a Student Loan Limit Matter

💰 Student Loans 101: Wondering about borrowing limits for undergrads? Learn the facts on student debt, loan options, and how parents can support their children's college journey. Tune in to our podcast for insights! #StudentD...
It's a Dual Enrollment Matter
March 23, 2024

It's a Dual Enrollment Matter

In this episode we dive into the world of dual credit programs with Marco A. De La Garza and Antonio De La Cruz from South Texas College. Join us as we explore the many benefits of dual credit courses for high school students...