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Private Student Loan Advice & College Financing Resources

Expert guidance on private student loans including how to plan, pay, and succeed for students and parents from the start of school through graduation.

  • Ascent Recognized as One of Southern California's Best Places to Work 
    We’re proud to share that Ascent has been recognized as one of Southern California’s Best Places to Work by Best Companies Group, an independent organization that honors companies creating strong workplace experiences for their teams.  Best Places to Work SoCal is a research-driven program from Best Companies Group that reviews participating companies’ practices, programs, and benefits, then gathers employee feedback about their workplace experience. Companies that meet the program’s criteria are named among the Best Places to Work SoCal. For Ascent, this recognition reflects more than our benefits or programs. It reflects the people who make our work meaningful every day.  At Ascent, we’re focused on building a workplace where people feel supported, trusted, and able to grow. Our mission is to help students access education and move toward academic and economic success, and we know that work starts with our own team. When employees feel valued and connected to the work they do, they’re better equipped to make a meaningful impact.  Our team is curious, collaborative, and open to new ideas. Leaders encourage learning, create space for feedback, and support career growth across the company. We believe great ideas can come from anywhere, and we work to make sure employees feel heard, included, and empowered to contribute.  Supporting employees means supporting the whole person. Ascent offers flexible and hybrid work options, generous PTO and leave policies, paid parental leave, wellness support, continuing education opportunities, and a 401(k) match. These benefits are designed to help team members care for themselves, grow professionally, and build sustainable careers.  Recognition is also part of how we show appreciation. Through programs like Cosmic Kudos, professional development opportunities, and company-wide celebrations, Ascent makes time to acknowledge the work happening across the team. It’s one way we help create a culture where people support each other, celebrate progress, and take pride in the impact they’re making.  “We’re proud to have built a workplace where employees feel trusted, supported, and genuinely connected to the work they do,” said Emily Skoubo, Director of Human Resources at Ascent. “This recognition reflects the collaborative culture our team has created together and our continued focus on providing an environment where people can grow, contribute, and feel valued.”  At its core, Ascent’s culture is people-first and purpose-driven. Team members support one another, celebrate wins together, and stay connected to a shared goal: helping students and families plan for, pay for, and succeed in school. That mix of mission, collaboration, and opportunity is what makes Ascent a great place to work.  We’re grateful to every employee who helps shape that culture every day and proud of what we’ve built together. As Ascent continues to grow, we’ll keep investing in our people, strengthening our culture, and creating opportunities for employees to do meaningful work while building rewarding careers. Because when our people succeed, the students and families we serve benefit too. 
  • Breaking into Tech: Katerina Suchkova | Co-Founder & Product Coach, Ahead of Product
    Breaking into Tech: Katerina Suchkova | Co-Founder & Product Coach, Ahead of Product
    We sat down with Katerina to find out more about her journey in tech and how she helps others to kickstart their dream careers.
  • Here’s What You Need to Know About Your Credit Score, From Credit Coach Nicole Soares
    Here’s What You Need to Know About Your Credit Score, From Credit Coach Nicole Soares
    For National Credit Education Month, we chatted with Nicole to get her advice on everything from FICO® scores to building up your credit. 
  • Breaking into Tech: Rumby Wilson
    Breaking into Tech: Rumby Wilson | DevOps Consultant, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
    We sat down with Rumby to talk about who inspired her to stay on track and advice she has for other Black women wanting to break into tech.
  • Breaking into Tech: Chris Johnson | Ascent Funding
    Breaking into Tech: Chris Johnson | QA Engineer, Custom Ink
    We chatted with Chris about his journey into tech, what obstacles he’s faced, and what advice he has for newbies in STEM.
  • Guide to Paying for Coding Bootcamps | Ascent Funding
    Your Guide to Paying for Coding Bootcamps
    Want to start a new career in tech or shift your current role? We’re here to help with a list of the common ways to finance a bootcamp.
  • 5 Things to Consider When Registering for Classes | Ascent Funding
    5 Things to Consider when Choosing Classes in College
    Between finding the right professors and balancing credits, here are a few things I keep in mind to make my class registration go smoothly.
  • Coding Bootcamps for Women: The Ultimate Guide
    Learn about some of the programs and scholarships available to help women attend coding bootcamps and how a coding bootcamp could help you achieve your goals.
  • What is a 529 College Savings Plan? How to Save for Your Student’s College Fund
    A 529 college savings plan is an investment plan to pay for various education costs. Learn more about 529 college savings plans from Ascent Funding.
  • Starting A Fitness Routine in College That Will Stick | Ascent Funding
    How To Start A Fitness Routine In College That Will Stick
    Starting a workout routine that will stick in college takes planning and dedication. Read these tips to help set you up for success.
  • 5 Tips to Network During a Career Fair | Ascent Funding
    5 Tips to Help You Stand Out at a Career Fair
    Wondering how you can be your best self during a networking event? Here are 5 tips on how to network during a career fair.
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