New site provides students and families with resources for college and career planning
Education Forward Arizona has launched “Your Path to Success,” a new website aimed at students in Arizona who would benefit from guidance as they prepare for life after high school. The content-rich site is open to all Arizona students and their families at no cost.
The site (EducationForwardArizona.org/your-path-to-success) provides free resources that will help visitors explore career options, understand what education or training they need to get there, and determine how to pay for that education. It breaks down essential steps into manageable tasks, helping students and parents take concrete actions toward a successful future.
“’Your Path to Success’ is an in-depth curated free resource that includes all postsecondary options, including trade schools, community colleges, universities and military service,” said Dr. Jennifer Murphy, Sr. Director of Attainment and AzCAN (Arizona College Access Network) at Education Forward Arizona. “Resources include everything from instruction to securing scholarships and FAFSA aid to a list of supports for completing college applications and pursuing a career in the military,” added Murphy.
The latest FAFSA form is now open for the 2025-26 school year, making it ideal timing for those who need assistance navigating postsecondary financing. Guidance on topics like FAFSA is critical, as completion of the application is a key indictor of future postsecondary enrollment.
“We know that research shows that students who complete the FAFSA are 84% more likely to enroll in education or training the semester following high school graduation,” said Dr. Jennifer Murphy.
Arizona residents overwhelmingly support expanding postsecondary options, with 92% agreeing that students need access to education and training beyond high school. With the launch of this new website, Education Forward Arizona is helping students turn career aspirations into actionable plans.
“After high school, students face a maze of options—apprenticeships, universities, trade schools and more—and figuring out the right path can feel overwhelming,” said Rich Nickel, President and CEO of Education Forward Arizona. “This new site simplifies the process by offering students a step-by-step guide to explore careers, understand the education and training required, and access the resources they need to make their goals a reality.”
Seven out of ten jobs today require postsecondary education or training. Unfortunately, fewer than half of Arizona residents hold a degree, certificate or professional license. Arizona has an Achieve60AZ Attainment Goal of 60%. Reaching the state’s attainment goal would bring billions of dollars into the state according to Billions to Gain research done by Helios Education Foundation and Education Forward Arizona.
“Increasing educational attainment in Arizona isn’t just about degrees—it’s about empowering individuals with the skills and credentials to secure stable, well-paying careers,” Nickel added. “Financial barriers, including tuition costs and lost wages from time spent in school, often prevent students from pursuing further education. That’s why this site includes clear guidance on scholarships, financial aid and alternative career pathways that balance education with earning potential.”
About Education Forward Arizona
Education Forward Arizona is a statewide education advocacy organization dedicated to championing education as the key driver to improving Arizona’s economy and quality of life. Education Forward Arizona serves as the leading voice for promoting the state’s Achieve60AZ education attainment goal and a shared action plan to move the goals of the Arizona Education Progress Meter forward. The organization’s work also includes mobilizing people and communities to advocate for policies and funding to improve educational outcomes across the Pre-K to postsecondary continuum, as well as providing scholarships and programs that improve postsecondary attainment for Arizona’s diverse student population. Learn more at EducationForwardArizona.org.