Season 3 Available Now!
Moments That Matter

Recent Episodes

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 attendanc…
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 FAFS…
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. Whethe…

Recent Blog Posts

Personal statement essays are an “interview on paper”

On our last episode of the Moments that Matter podcast, I had a chance to sit down with Paige Cisneros, the owner of Cisneros College Consulting, an independent education consultant, to delve into the world of college essays and uncover the secrets …

About the Hosts

Laura A. Escamilla Profile Photo

Laura A. Escamilla

Host / Mom / Executive Director

I am an Executive Director of a non-profit organization, Stars Scholarship Fund, located in South Texas. I have served as Executive Director since 2012. I have worked with Stars Scholarship Fund for eighteen years. Before serving in this role, I served as Public Relations Coordinator. I have worked collaboratively with a statewide board of directors, staff, higher education institutions, businesses, and nonprofits serving the region to build a more visible, influential, and resilient organization to provide scholarships to students who might not otherwise have the resources to pursue higher education.
I have earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration (BBA) in Management and a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Texas–Pan American, I am currently pursing a Doctorate of Education at Northeastern University. I am an associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association.
My husband, Isaac Escamilla works in education as a Database Administrator and is a (my) tech guru. We have two children. Our daughter is currently in graduate school and our son has completed his first year in college.

Isaac R. Escamilla Profile Photo

Isaac R. Escamilla

Producer

Isaac Escamilla is the producer of the Moments that Matter podcast, a parent to two outstanding children, two fur babies, and husband to an extraordinary woman. He lives in McAllen, is a professional right-clicker/professional developer, misses Austin, and lives and breathes for good company, good music, and great friends. Send feedback to isaac@momentsmatterpod.com and tweets to @That1saac