I would agree except this is in the general financial aid section and is not titled as a UC/Cal Grant issue. Though I agree that everyone should read through the threads and not look at isolated posts, nor should they take any general piece of advice as gospel, I think that the ramifications of taking her general reassurance could have sad consequences.
It’s an ever important message, IMO, to get financial aid applications in early because one CAN easily be shut out of funds for applying too late.
I’m happy and relieved for the OP.