Bright Start Success Stories

The path to paying for higher education is different for each family, but one thing is clear: using a Bright Start 529 college savings plan makes that path easier. What’s your successful savings story?

As they get closer to graduation, they’re ready to jump into life. I think that’s the most satisfying thing. They’re always going to need us, but because we planned ahead with Bright Start, they’re more secure and ready to go.
Sheryl Engerski

The Benefit of
Starting Early
Deo Family
Elmhurst, Illinois

Sagar Deo started saving for college with Bright Start before his children were even born, and long before all the other parenting items stacked up on his to-do list. Now, he’s able to focus on mentally preparing them for higher education without worrying as much about finances.

Read Their Story

Setting Children up for Success
Morris Family
Chicago, Illinois

As their students get closer to their first day of higher education, the Morris family’s college savings contributions are building thanks to Bright Start.

Read Their Story

Making Savings a Family Affair
Rzepka Family
Naperville, Illinois

The Rzepkas have turned saving for college into a family affair with multiple generations working together to give the gift of higher education.

Read Their Story

Saving to Create Their Own Futures
Powell Family
Gurnee, Illinois

Throughout 17 years and many life changes, Bright Start helped the Powell family send three kids to college without fully relying on student loans.

Read Their Story

Investing Made Easy
Chakraborty Family
Naperville, Illinois

Debashis and Shabnam Chakraborty always told their daughters that a college education was something to aspire to. By opening Bright Start 529 College Savings Accounts for both of their daughters, the girls have been able to pursue their dreams without amassing any debt.

Read Their Story

Focus on School Instead of Debt
Gilbert Family
River Forest, Illinois

Eric and Laurie Gilbert, had already been planning for their daughters’ studies since they were born. Knowing they wanted their daughters to have the opportunity to pursue an education, the Gilberts started saving for college with Bright Start 529 College Savings Plans.

Read Their Story

Bright Start Advantage Over Traditional Savings Accounts
Engerski Family
Dennison, Illinois

“As they get closer to graduation, they’re ready to jump into life. I think that’s the most satisfying thing. They’re always going to need us, but because we planned ahead with Bright Start, they’re more secure and ready to go.”

Read Their Story

Flexible Contributions
McClurg Family
Libertyville, Illinois

Before their children were born, Jeff and Kathryn McClurg already had plans to save for their kids’ college educations. But they weren’t sure where to start. After exploring several college savings options, the McClurgs chose Bright Start 529 College Savings Plans.

Read Their Story