Students, talk to your parents. Communication about finances is key at the beginning of the application process. Laszewski advises parents to tell their children up front about their financial parameters. Many are embarrassed by such discussions because they don't want to admit that they can't do everything for their children. Parents and students are hesitant to get the advice they need to lead them through the maze of financial applications, or they spin their wheels unproductively.
Advice is everywhere.
Laszewski sometimes gets calls about financial issues from parents with children who are not even applying to Bucknell. If their questions are general in nature, he'll answer them. High school counselors are sources of help as well. Though they may not have loads of time, they can refer parents to the right person who can answer financial questions or be the middleman if parents are uncertain about terminology. College financial aid personnel are used to dealing with questions, too.