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2026 International ACAC Conference Session Proposal Form

February 12, 2026

Money on My Mind: Talking Honestly & Acting Strategically About College Finances

Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 1:50 PM–2:35 PM EDT
Lawrence 104
Session Description

Money is personal. With so much ambiguity surrounding cost of attendance and financial aid determinations for international students, many can feel pigeon-holed into one of two ill-fitting categories: “needs full ride” or “can pay full fare”, leading students, families, and counseling colleagues to shy away from the real, nitty-gritty conversations about cost and budget. Join this discussion group to hear from both sides of the desk about how to build tools for moving families from vague exchanges to frank dialogue about financial realities, and learn from data-driven discussion for working with families to widen their strategy around financial fit. Come ready to trade stories about financial aid surprises, swap real-world case studies of international student financial aid practices, and leave with the skills to finally feel confident navigating money conversations with students and families.

Lead Presenter

Samantha Salvatori, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Additional Presenters

Sara Horn, Athens College - Psychico College
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