Guiding Students Toward Their Future

College • Careers • Financial Aid • Life After High School

Pivot Foundation empowers students to confidently navigate college, careers, and life after high school through guidance, resources, and opportunity.

How We Help

Helping students turn uncertainty into a plan for what's next.

COLLEGE READINESS

Helping students explore their options, prepare for college, and take confident steps toward their future. From discovering colleges and programs to understanding what it takes to get there, Pivot Foundation provides practical guidance throughout the college-planning process. Students gain the information, tools, and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their next steps.

FINANCIAL AID

Helping students understand financial aid and make informed decisions about paying for college. Navigating college costs can feel overwhelming. Pivot Foundation helps students understand financial aid options, complete key steps in the process, and connect the pieces between college planning and paying for their education. Our goal is to make the financial aid process easier to understand and less intimidating.

CAREER & WORKFORCE

Helping students explore career possibilities and prepare for the world of work. Pivot Foundation helps students connect their interests, strengths, and goals to real-world career opportunities. Through career exploration and practical preparation, students can begin building the skills and confidence they need for internships, employment, and life beyond the classroom.

LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL

Helping students build a plan for what comes next. Life after high school can take many directions. Pivot Foundation helps students consider their options, make informed decisions, and develop a realistic plan for their next chapter—whether that means college, career, workforce training, or another pathway.

EXPLORE OUR WORKSHOPS

Workshops

Empowering students for success after high school through interactive programs in college readiness, financial aid, and career development.

COLLEGE READINESS

Prepare students for the transition to college through engaging workshops on applications, admissions, scholarships, financial aid, and academic planning.

FINANCIAL AID

Help students and families confidently navigate FAFSA, TASFA, scholarships, financial literacy, and paying for college.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Equip students with practical career skills including resumes, interviewing, workplace communication, leadership, and professionalism.

Resources

COLLEGE READINESS RESOURCES

Prepare for every step of the college journey, from exploring schools to submitting applications.

Explore Resources

FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES

Prepare for every step of the financial aid process, from completing the FAFSA or TASFA to comparing college costs.

Explore Resources
ABOUT US
OUR STORY
Pivot Foundation Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students, families, and communities navigate college, career, and life after high school through comprehensive advising, educational resources, and workforce readiness programs.

Founded by Veronica Lawrence, Pivot Foundation was created to remove barriers and provide students from underserved communities with the guidance, resources, and confidence they need to build successful futures.

OUR MISSION
Our mission is to empower students and families by providing equitable access to college, career, and workforce readiness resources that inspire confidence, expand opportunities, and support lifelong success.

OUR VISION
We envision a future where every student, regardless of background, has the knowledge, resources, and confidence to pursue their educational and career goals and create a meaningful impact in their communities.

OUR PROMISE
Guidance. Resources. Confidence.
Pivot Foundation empowers students to confidently navigate college, careers, and life after high school.

Contact

  • Houston, Texas, United States

Voices that Inspire

UHCL

Nataly Andrad

Senior year of high school comes with many new opportunities and challenges. Going through it alone can become very exhausting. However, with the help of Ms. Lawrence, I was able to take my senior year with a calm demeanor. The most difficult part for me was completing any sort of financial aid application. However, she was able to guide me through the process, answer any question that I had, and help me fill out my forms on time. I thank her for making a time that many people do not look forward to, flow easily.

     
UHCL

Katia Gaona

The Pivot Foundation has helped me in so many ways and I’m beyond grateful for the guidance that was given to me by Ms. Lawrence. I was guided for many years by Ms. Lawrence, she started helping me when I was a senior in high school trying to apply to all my dream colleges, either by applying for financial aid, reviewing my college essays, to even preparing me for my TSI exams. Throughout the years I kept going back to her for anything that I have ever needed help on during my education/career path. I am now a UHCL Alumni and I couldn’t have done it without her guidance and support throughout all these years. Thank you!

     
TAMU

Reynaldo Bonilla

Ms. Lawrence has been an amazing mentor to me since my time at North Forest High School. She helped me with FAFSA, scholarship applications, resume building, and provided valuable guidance whenever I needed advice. Her support made my entire college experience much easier and far less stressful. Because of her mentorship, I was able to get involved and succeed in many opportunities, including serving as Treasurer of NAHB (National Association of Home Builders, TAMU chapter), being part of a top 5 placing team in the NAHB national competition, and a top 3 placing team in the ICU competition (Harold L. Adams Interdisciplinary Charrette for Undergraduates).

     
PVAMU

Deonna London

Ms. Lawrence not only helped me decide which college to attend, but she also guided me through the entire application process. She prepared us for the unknown and made sure we felt confident every step of the way. I know many students who wish they had the kind of support she provided. Because of her guidance and encouragement, I am now a Computer Engineering graduate from PVAMU. Some of my highlights include being a Chevron Scholar, Intel Scholar, and Apple Scholar, earning the title of Most Outstanding Junior Computer Engineer, receiving the Merit Distinguished Scholar award, and graduating Magna Cum Laude. I am truly thankful for her impact on my journey.

     
 
 

 Our Impact

EMPOWERING STUDENTS. STRENTHENING FUTURES.

 
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FAFSA / TASFA

The 2027-2028 FAFSA/TASFA opens October 1, 2026. Start early if you're planning to attend college then.

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FAQs

Q: What is FAFSA?
A: FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is a form that students in the United States fill out to determine their eligibility for financial aid for college, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

Q: Who needs to fill out the FAFSA?
A: Any student planning to attend college should complete the FAFSA. Even if you think your family’s income is too high to qualify for aid, many states and colleges use the FAFSA to award non-federal aid and scholarships.

Q: When should I submit the FAFSA?
A: The FAFSA form is normally available on October 1st each year for the following academic year. It’s best to submit it as soon as possible because some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. For the 2025-2026 the full launch will be Dec 1, 2024 or later.

Q: What information is required for the FAFSA?
A: You will need your Social Security number, your parents' Social Security numbers (if you are a dependent), your driver’s license number (if you have one), your Alien Registration Number (if you are not a U.S. citizen), federal tax information or tax returns, records of untaxed income, and information on cash, savings, and checking account balances.

Q: How do I fill out the FAFSA?
A: You can complete the FAFSA online at fafsa.ed.gov, or via the myStudentAid mobile app. The online application is the quickest and most efficient way to submit your form.

Q: What happens after I submit my FAFSA?
A: After submitting your FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing the information you provided. Review it for accuracy. Colleges you listed on your FAFSA will use your SAR to determine your eligibility for financial aid. They will then send you a financial aid award letter detailing the types and amounts of aid you can receive.

Q: Do I need to complete the FAFSA every year?
A: Yes, you need to complete the FAFSA every year you are in school and want to receive financial aid. Each year’s form becomes available on October 1st for the following academic year.

Q: What should I do if my family’s financial situation changes after submitting the FAFSA?
A: If your family’s financial situation changes significantly, such as a job loss or medical expenses, contact the financial aid office at your college. They may be able to adjust your financial aid package based on your new circumstances.

Q: Where can I get assistance with filling out the FAFSA?
A: You can get help from your high school counselor, the financial aid office at your college, or by calling the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). There are also many online resources and guides available to assist you.
P: ¿Qué es el FAFSA?
R: FAFSA significa Free Application for Federal Student Aid (Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes). Es un formulario que los estudiantes deben completar para ser considerados para la ayuda financiera federal, incluyendo becas, préstamos y programas de estudio y trabajo.

P: ¿Quién debe llenar el FAFSA?
R: Todos los estudiantes que planean asistir a la universidad o escuela técnica y desean recibir ayuda financiera federal deben completar el FAFSA. Esto incluye a ciudadanos estadounidenses, residentes permanentes y ciertos estudiantes internacionales.

P: ¿Cuándo debo presentar el FAFSA?
R: El FAFSA se abre el 1 de octubre de cada año para el siguiente año académico. Es recomendable completarlo lo antes posible, ya que algunas ayudas financieras se otorgan por orden de llegada.

P: ¿Qué información se requiere para el FAFSA?
R: Necesitarás tu número de Seguro Social, declaraciones de impuestos federales, registros de ingresos no sujetos a impuestos, saldos de efectivo, cuentas de ahorro y corrientes, y cualquier otro recurso financiero disponible.

P: ¿Cómo lleno el FAFSA?
R: El FAFSA se completa en línea en el sitio web fafsa.gov. Sigue las instrucciones proporcionadas y asegúrate de revisar tu información antes de enviarla. También puedes usar la aplicación móvil myStudentAid.

P: ¿Qué pasa después de enviar mi FAFSA?
R: Después de enviar tu FAFSA, recibirás un Student Aid Report (SAR) que resume tu información. Las universidades que listaste en tu solicitud utilizarán esta información para determinar tu elegibilidad para la ayuda financiera. Luego te enviarán cartas de oferta de ayuda financiera.

P: ¿Necesito completar el FAFSA cada año?
R: Sí, debes completar el FAFSA cada año que estés en la universidad y quieras recibir ayuda financiera federal. La aplicación para cada año académico se abre el 1 de octubre del año anterior.

P: ¿Qué debo hacer si cambia la situación financiera de mi familia después de enviar el FAFSA?
R: Si la situación financiera de tu familia cambia significativamente, contacta a la oficina de ayuda financiera de tu universidad. Ellos podrán ajustar tu paquete de ayuda financiera basado en tus nuevas circunstancias.

P: ¿Dónde puedo obtener asistencia para llenar el FAFSA?
R: Puedes obtener ayuda de tu consejero escolar, la oficina de ayuda financiera de tu universidad, o a través de recursos en línea en el sitio web fafsa.gov. Muchas universidades también ofrecen talleres y asistencia individual para completar el FAFSA.

Q: What is TASFA?
A: TASFA stands for the Texas Application for State Financial Aid. It is a form used by Texas students who are not eligible to complete the FAFSA to apply for state financial aid. This includes non-citizens and certain resident aliens.

Q: Who needs to fill out the TASFA?
A: Students who are not eligible to apply for federal financial aid through the FAFSA, typically including undocumented students and certain international students who are Texas residents, should complete the TASFA.

Q: When should I submit the TASFA?
A: The TASFA should be submitted as soon as possible after normally October 1st each year for the following academic year. Deadlines vary by college, so check with your institution for specific submission dates. This year the Federal government has delayed the roll out to Dec. 1, 2024.

Q: What information is required for the TASFA?
A: You will need your and your parents' tax information, records of untaxed income, information on cash, savings, and checking account balances, and information on any other financial resources.

Q: How do I fill out the TASFA?
A: The TASFA is a paper application that must be completed and submitted to the financial aid office of the college or university you plan to attend. Some institutions may also accept an electronic version.

Q: What happens after I submit my TASFA?
A: After submitting your TASFA, the financial aid office at your college will review your application to determine your eligibility for state and institutional financial aid. They will then notify you of the types and amounts of aid you can receive.

Q: Do I need to complete the TASFA every year?
A: Yes, you need to complete the TASFA every year you are in school and want to receive state financial aid. Each year’s form becomes available on October 1st for the following academic year.

Q: What should I do if my family’s financial situation changes after submitting the TASFA?
A: If your family’s financial situation changes significantly, contact the financial aid office at your college. They may be able to adjust your financial aid package based on your new circumstances.

Q: Where can I get assistance with filling out the TASFA?
A: You can get help from your high school counselor, the financial aid office at your college, or through various community organizations that assist students with the TASFA. Many colleges also offer workshops and one-on-one assistance for completing the TASFA.




P: ¿Qué es el TASFA?
R: TASFA significa Texas Application for State Financial Aid (Solicitud de Ayuda Financiera Estatal de Texas). Es un formulario utilizado por los estudiantes de Texas que no son elegibles para completar el FAFSA para solicitar ayuda financiera estatal. Esto incluye a estudiantes no ciudadanos y ciertos residentes extranjeros.

P: ¿Quién debe llenar el TASFA?
R: Los estudiantes que no son elegibles para solicitar ayuda financiera federal a través del FAFSA, típicamente incluyendo a estudiantes indocumentados y ciertos estudiantes internacionales que son residentes de Texas, deben completar el TASFA.

P: ¿Cuándo debo presentar el TASFA?
R: El TASFA debe ser presentado tan pronto como sea posible después del 1 de octubre cada año para el año académico siguiente. Las fechas límite varían según la universidad, por lo que es importante verificar con tu institución para conocer las fechas específicas de presentación.

P: ¿Qué información se requiere para el TASFA?
R: Necesitarás la información fiscal tuya y de tus padres, registros de ingresos no sujetos a impuestos, información sobre saldos de efectivo, ahorros y cuentas corrientes, y cualquier otro recurso financiero disponible.

P: ¿Cómo lleno el TASFA?
R: El TASFA es una solicitud en papel que debe completarse y enviarse a la oficina de ayuda financiera de la universidad a la que planeas asistir. Algunas instituciones también pueden aceptar una versión electrónica del formulario.

P: ¿Qué pasa después de enviar mi TASFA?
R: Después de enviar tu TASFA, la oficina de ayuda financiera de tu universidad revisará tu solicitud para determinar tu elegibilidad para la ayuda financiera estatal e institucional. Luego te notificarán los tipos y cantidades de ayuda que puedes recibir.

P: ¿Necesito completar el TASFA cada año?
R: Sí, debes completar el TASFA cada año que estés en la universidad y quieras recibir ayuda financiera estatal. El formulario de cada año se hace disponible el 1 de octubre para el año académico siguiente.

P: ¿Qué debo hacer si cambia la situación financiera de mi familia después de enviar el TASFA?
R: Si la situación financiera de tu familia cambia significativamente, contacta a la oficina de ayuda financiera de tu universidad. Ellos podrán ajustar tu paquete de ayuda financiera basado en tus nuevas circunstancias.

P: ¿Dónde puedo obtener asistencia para llenar el TASFA?
R: Puedes obtener ayuda de tu consejero escolar, la oficina de ayuda financiera de tu universidad, o a través de varias organizaciones comunitarias que asisten a los estudiantes con el TASFA. Muchas universidades también ofrecen talleres y asistencia individual para completar el TASFA.

Q: When should I start preparing my college application?
A: It's recommended to start preparing your college application during your junior year of high school. This gives you ample time to research colleges, gather necessary materials, and complete any required standardized tests.

Q: What components are typically required in a college application?
A: College applications generally require:
  • Completed application forms
  • Personal essays
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Academic transcripts
  • Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, etc.)
  • List of extracurricular activities and achievements
Q: What is ApplyTexas?
A: ApplyTexas is an online application platform that allows students to apply to public and many private colleges and universities in Texas. It functions similarly to the Common App, making it easier to apply to multiple institutions within the state using one application.

Q: What is the Common Application?
A: The Common Application, or "Common App," is an online application platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges with a single application. It simplifies the application process and is accepted by many colleges in the United States and other countries.

Q: How do I choose whom to ask for recommendation letters?
A: Choose people who know you well and can speak positively about your skills, achievements, and character. This could include teachers, school counselors, coaches, or employers. Be sure to ask them well in advance.

Q: How many colleges should I apply to?
A: It's recommended to apply to a mix of colleges: a few "safety" schools where you are likely to be admitted, several "match" schools where your qualifications align well with the average admitted student, and a few "reach" schools where admission is less certain but you would be thrilled to attend.

Q: What is early decision and early action?
A: Early decision is a binding agreement where you commit to attending a college if you are accepted, and you can only apply to one school under this plan. Early action is non-binding, allowing you to apply early and receive an admission decision sooner without committing to attend. Both options typically have earlier deadlines than regular decision applications.

Q: How important are personal essays in the application process?
A: Personal essays are very important as they provide an opportunity to showcase your personality, experiences, and writing skills. They help admissions officers understand who you are beyond your grades and test scores.

Q: What should I include in my personal essay?
A: Your personal essay should reflect who you are, your experiences, and your goals. Be authentic and honest, and try to provide a unique perspective that will help you stand out. Focus on specific experiences that have shaped you and how they have prepared you for college.

Q: How can I strengthen my college application?
A: To strengthen your application:
  • Maintain strong grades and take challenging courses
  • Score well on standardized tests
  • Participate in extracurricular activities and demonstrate leadership
  • Write compelling personal essays
  • Obtain strong letters of recommendation
  • Show genuine interest in the colleges you are applying to
Q: What if I can't afford the application fees?
A: Many colleges offer fee waivers for students who demonstrate financial need. You can request a fee waiver through the Common App, Apply Texas or directly from the college's admissions office. Talk to your school counselor for assistance.

Q: When will I hear back from colleges after applying?
A: The timeline for receiving admission decisions varies by college. Early decision and early action applicants usually hear back by December, while regular decision applicants typically receive notifications between March and April. Be sure to check each college’s specific timeline.

Q: What should I do after receiving my admission decisions?
A: After receiving your admission decisions:
  • Compare financial aid packages and scholarship offers
  • Visit campuses (if possible) or attend virtual tours
  • Consider factors like academic programs, campus culture, location, and costs
  • Make your final decision and submit your enrollment deposit by the deadline.
Q: What is a scholarship?
A: A scholarship is a financial award given to a student to help pay for their education. Scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria set by the scholarship provider.

Q: Where can I find scholarships?
A: Scholarships can be found through various sources, including:
  • School counselors and college financial aid offices
  • Scholarship search engines and websites (e.g., Fastweb, Scholarship.com)
  • Community organizations and foundations
  • Employers and unions
  • Professional associations in your field of interest
Q: When should I start looking for scholarships?
A: It's best to start looking for scholarships as early as possible, ideally during your junior year of high school. Some scholarships are available to younger students, and others have deadlines that fall well before the start of the college academic year.

Q: How do I apply for scholarships?
A: Each scholarship has its own application process, but generally, you will need to:
  • Complete an application form
  • Write an essay or personal statement
  • Provide letters of recommendation
  • Submit transcripts and test scores
  • Demonstrate financial need (if applicable)
Q: What are some tips for writing a strong scholarship essay?
A: To write a strong scholarship essay:
  • Follow the prompt carefully and stay on topic
  • Be authentic and personal; share your unique story
  • Highlight your achievements and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals
  • Proofread thoroughly to avoid grammatical and spelling errors
  • Ask teachers or mentors to review your essay and provide feedback
Q: How important are letters of recommendation for scholarship applications?
A: Letters of recommendation are often a crucial part of scholarship applications. They provide insight into your character, achievements, and potential from someone who knows you well. Choose recommenders who can speak positively about your abilities and accomplishments.

Q: Can I apply for scholarships even if I don't have a high GPA?
A: Yes, there are many scholarships that consider factors other than GPA, such as community service, leadership, extracurricular activities, or financial need. It's important to look for scholarships that align with your strengths and background.

Q: Are there scholarships for specific fields of study or career interests?
A: Yes, many scholarships are available for students pursuing specific fields of study or career interests. Professional associations, corporations, and foundations often offer scholarships for students entering particular professions or academic disciplines.

Q: What should I do if I win a scholarship?
A: If you win a scholarship:
  • Follow the instructions provided by the scholarship provider to claim your award
  • Write a thank-you letter to the scholarship donor
  • Keep track of the scholarship funds and ensure they are applied to your educational expenses
  • Stay in touch with the scholarship provider, as some scholarships are renewable and may require maintaining a certain GPA or other criteria
Q: Can I lose my scholarship once it's awarded?
A: Yes, it's possible to lose a scholarship if you fail to meet the requirements set by the scholarship provider, such as maintaining a certain GPA, enrolling in a specific number of credit hours, or continuing in the designated field of study. Be sure to understand and comply with all the terms and conditions of your scholarship.

Q: How can I stay organized while applying for multiple scholarships?
A: To stay organized:
  • Create a spreadsheet to track scholarship deadlines, requirements, and submission dates
  • Keep copies of all application materials and essays
  • Set aside regular time each week to work on scholarship applications
  • Use a calendar to remind yourself of upcoming deadlines
  • Stay proactive and follow up on the status of your applications if needed

Board

Veronica Lawrence

CEO

Veronica offers 10+ years of expertise in the educational sector, specializing in program administration and student advisory services. Currently working at Rice University as a Research and Program Administrator, Veronica has a proven track record of success in previous positions, including Program Manager at Project Grad Houston - Grad Café and within the Financial Aid & Scholarships department at the University of Houston. Veronica is dedicated to streamlining educational pathways and supporting student success.

Bernadette Haub

Chair

Bernadette Haub is a dedicated Nutrition Education Coordinator at Second Harvest Food Bank, a nonprofit organization. Bernadette has over 20 years of experience working with economically challenged individuals, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.

Chantel Rivera

Treasurer/Secretary

Chantel Rivera serves as the Treasurer of the Pivot Foundation, providing the financial oversight necessary to drive our mission forward. Outside of her board service, Chantel is a vital force at Breaking Ground, where she manages programs and venue operations that fund essential services for the homeless community. Her expertise in balancing complex operations with a passion for social good makes her a cornerstone of our organization.

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