Based on considerable data analysis, the desire to serve our college students better, and the expanding college success portfolio, College Possible Minnesota transitioned to a full-time staff model for the college success team starting last month. Built on the experiences of College Possible Chicago, Texas, and many of our peers in the college persistence field, this change allows College Possible to provide the right student resources at the right time. As we continue to uphold our core values and mission, these changes are designed to enhance our impact and better serve our students.
A graduate of Minnesota State University, Mankato, Allison Etter joined College Possible Minnesota as an AmeriCorps coach during the summer of 2022 serving the college success team before making the transition to advising specialist in July 2024. Allison was inspired to make the move to advising specialist because she wanted to continue to support the students College Possible serves through their college journey.
“I have really enjoyed being able to make connections and support the students I serve through challenging times,” said Allison. “I was pleased to have the opportunity to make connections on campus to better assist students by getting to know key stakeholders that can aid in student success.”
When asked how her role as an advising specialist differs from her role as a coach, Allison says that there are a few differences: “One huge difference is the number of students I am supporting, I can reach more students and get to know them. Another difference is spending more time working with a few schools, rather than numerous schools. I can learn more about a specific university and really get a feel for the school’s workings.”
Applying for financial aid is an essential step in the journey to college and this year, technical issues created submissions problems with revamped Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application. College Possible Minnesota has always supported the students we serve to complete their financial aid forms and this year was no exception. In December 2023, staff and AmeriCorps members receive extensive training in supporting students to complete the new FAFSA forms. Starting in February 2024, College Possible Minnesota has hosted numerous support events and one-on-one sessions. Allison says that one of her most memorable tasks has been helping students with FAFSA completion.
“With the new FAFSA process that was implemented, we have seen students struggle to complete it. In my new position as an advising specialist, I have been able to reach out to the students I serve almost a month earlier than I was able to when I was serving as a coach. Because of this, I have been able to help students tackle their FAFSA struggles before school started, which in turn helped them take the financial burden off their plate.”
When asked about why she values College Possible, Allison responded, “I am passionate about College Possible because the organization cares about student success and helping each and every student to the best of our ability. College Possible is dedicated to supporting students through all aspects of their academic journey, and being able to be a part of an organization with similar beliefs is important to me.”
