Erika J. Barger

Erika J. Barger helps families and students navigate the rising cost of higher education and secure scholarships to fund college. With student debt at historically high levels, Barger emphasizes that free money is available for those who know where to look. Many students miss out on scholarship opportunities because they do not know where to look, do not know when to begin the process or make errors on applications that can cost them thousands of dollars.

Author of "Scholarship Hacks: Insider Tips for Winning College Money," Barker graduated valedictorian of her high school class and received nearly $250,000 in scholarships and financial aid, allowing her to fully fund her undergraduate education at a top-25 university, where she studied government and history. For over a decade, she has served as a scholarship chairperson and judge for numerous organizations. A graduate of Seabreeze High School, Daytona State College, Georgetown University and Florida State University College of Law, Barger is a practicing litigation attorney for the fifth-largest insurance broker globally. She is knowledgeable and passionate about assisting others in securing funding for their educational endeavors and has participated in numerous book signings and speaking engagements.

Fundamental to Barger’s book are proven application strategies and tips on how to write winning essays, the dos and don'ts of the application process, common mistakes and how to avoid them and insider techniques to maximize students’ chances of securing financial aid. Her message is suited to high school students preparing for college, parents guiding their children through the financial aid process, guidance counselors, educators and college or continuing education students seeking additional funding for their education. Barger has empowered thousands of students to secure life-changing scholarship opportunities and graduate debt-free, and she shares her insider expertise to help students and organizations take control of their educational futures.

In 2024, the Daytona Beach News-Journal named Barger its Private Sector Woman of the Year in honor of her outstanding performance, dedication and leadership in her local community.

Barger posts weekly scholarship strategies and tips, along with scholarship opportunities, on her website and on social media for the benefit of parents and students.