Since 2006 when TED Talks and conferences were made available for free online, they have been inspiring and challenging the way we think. The short, 20-45 minute speeches delivered by a wide variety of experts across countless topics ranging from health care in Rwanda to Facebook have revolutionized the way ideas are shared.

Here at UMass we like to hear stories about schools providing children with a path leading them to higher education. It’s essential for children to learn the importance of higher education at an early age to provide them with a head start. The Pitt County Schools of North Carolina will start a new program called AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination). This program was originally geared towards high schoolers, but with the hard work of the school and Sugg-Bundy Elementary School in Farmville, NC will receive $500 to implement this program for all fourth graders in the coming weeks.

There is an ongoing debate about higher education and whether there is value in having a bachelor’s or master’s degree versus additional training geared towards a specific skillset. Some argue that the return on investment for higher education is not worth the price tag. However, at a recent TEDx in El Paso Texas, a prominent local businessman explained just how important it is for individuals to receive an advanced degree to help the local economy.

Often students need guidance to help them achieve their highest potential. The University of Massachusetts recognizes the essential role that advisors play in the success of students and as a result, spends a great deal of time finding and employing some of the best advisors in higher education. This month, UMass spotlights MaryBeth Kimball, Director of Admissions and Advising at the Isenberg School of Management at the UMass Amherst campus. We caught up with MaryBeth to learn a little bit more about what she does for her students.