Welcome back listeners! We hope your fall semester is off to a good start. In today’s episode we launch a three-part series on the key factors that affect academic success. We share our thoughts on one of the least talked about aspects of academic probation. For many students being placed on academic probation can trigger feelings of sadness and also cause you to question your abilities. We unpack all of the normal emotions that come with academic challenges. Be sure to also check out next weeks’ episode on how to get off probation. Please share this very important episode with others. Also, let us know your thoughts by leaving us a comment below and rating this episode.

Welcome back listeners! For many students fall semester is the time to start transfer applications. In this episode, we discuss the UC Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) and share important reminders to completing your application successfully. We also share our thoughts on how to identify the best TAG campus that fits your needs. Check out the episode notes below for important TAG information links and also please remember to like and share with friends.

Hello listeners! As we head into another new school year, we realize that it is never too early to start planning for a successful semester. In this latest episode, we share our thoughts on things students can do to ensure a strong semester. What are some ways you prepare for a successful year? Please share your thoughts below and don’t forget to share this episode with others!

Welcome back listeners! As we get ready to begin a new school year, we want to take a closer look at what colleges are doing to make college more affordable. One of the largest expenses students will face while in school is the cost of textbooks. In this episode, we explore the new wave of “Zero Textbook Cost” classes. These are classes designed to greatly reduce or eliminate the cost of a textbook to students by providing digital based copies of updated textbooks. As always, we hope that you will find this episode helpful and share it with others.

Welcome back listeners! It's no secret that college costs increase every year. In this latest episode, we address the new strategies that families are using to reduce the overall costs of college. In fact, trends show that many students are opting to either attend college part time or delay attending college altogether. We discuss the reasons behind these new approaches and other ways to reduce costs. We hope that you will find this episode useful and if so, please share it or leave us a comment. It helps us grow!

Welcome back listeners! It’s no secret that gaining relevant work experience is crucial to getting your foot in the door to your future career. In this important episode, we share our insights on the importance of finding low entry opportunities to help get experience in your field. We also talk about some of the pitfalls that can come with working full time while in college. Finally, we discuss why part time work in college is part of the journey and can lead to amazing opportunities for networking. Please listen, share, and comment. We appreciate your support! 

Welcome to our first episode of season five. In this episode, we talk about the generational gap between Generation Z and previous generations. Current economic times are now forcing students to approach college with an open mind and think outside the box. We discuss our observations of the current trend to “cast a wide net” while in college to learn multiple skills and several options for earning potential. We hope you enjoy this episode and make sure to rate, review, and share!

In this episode, Yetunde and Emmanuel point out pivotal aspects from Sergio’s interview. They dive into the resilient mindset he maintained towards rejection and the approach he used to push himself forward. Furthermore, they advocate for students to actively seek out scholarships, offering invaluable tips on effectively pursuing them. Given the staggering expenses with higher education in today's world, this episode serves as an important resource, providing essential strategies to manage costs and emphasizes the importance of a resilient mindset.

In this episode, we dive into Sergio's remarkable journey of resilience and resourcefulness. Initially faced with rejection from the University of Washington, Sergio refused to be deterred, opting instead for the community college route. Through his efforts, he secured scholarships and financial aid, enabling him to transfer to the University of Washington and graduate debt-free! Sergio’s mindset and perspective demonstrate his hunger to succeed as a first-gen student who will create generational change in his family for years to come. His narrative is not just a testament to overcoming adversity, but also an example of the transformative power of perseverance and adaptability in the face of life's unexpected twists and turns.

In this debrief, Yetunde and Emmanuel dissect the balancing act of juggling athletics and a STEM major. They emphasize the important role of educational planning, especially when you are involved in heavily weighted, time consuming priorities. Furthermore, they speak to the importance of keeping a diverse set of options open as an athlete and focusing on the array of opportunities that may spark other passions in your journey. This is a must-listen episode for student athletes entering the community college.

Hello listeners! In this episode, we explore Nas's journey as a former student athlete balancing his love for baseball and mathematics. Nas shares insights gained while redshirting his first year, realizing the intricate balance between sports and academics. With foresight Nas sought guidance from a STEM Counselor, ultimately discovering his passion toward computer science. Despite the numerous requirements he needed to complete his last year, he forged his way through doing what he needed to transfer to a UC. This episode is a must-listen for student athletes managing multiple priorities, offering inspiration and invaluable lessons from Nas's remarkable story.

Welcome, listeners! In this debrief, Yetunde and Emmanuel explore Ayami's non-traditional approach of taking a gap year to dive into self-discovery and holistic growth before commencing her college career. They emphasize the importance of creating one's path and tailoring a plan tailored to individual aspirations. Moreover, they reflect on Ayami’s philosophy of cultivating curiosity and leveraging it as a catalyst for learning. This episode is an essential one for students eager for self reflection before they begin their college journey.

In this episode, we interview Ayami, a first generation college student who chose to take a gap year before embarking on her college path. Ayami’s profound journey of self-discovery, utilizing reflection and drawing from her diverse experiences led her to discover her passion for environmental engineering. While she initially dove headfirst into community college, she reflects on the potential pitfalls of this approach, suggesting that a more measured transition might have been beneficial. Throughout the episode, Ayami imparts key insights on cultivating a learning mindset, especially when tackling challenging subjects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining curiosity as a driving force for continuous growth and development. This episode is a must listen!

Join us for this episode as Yetunde and Emmanuel debrief Corey’s interview, shedding light on the challenges he encountered during the college application and admission process. They discuss the obstacles students confront when their educational journey takes unexpected turns and offer insights on how to navigate setbacks and realign your goals. Furthermore, they explore the significance of major exploration, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and strategies for overcoming barriers. Tune in for a compelling conversation that offers valuable advice and inspiration!

In this episode, we dive into Corey's inspiring journey, marked by resilience and determination despite numerous hardships. Initially aiming for Morehouse College, Corey faced financial barriers, and then his admission to CSU East Bay fell through. While attending his third choice, a community college, he encountered common challenges such as work and school life balance, and struggled to find a major he was passionate about. Corey's resilience and persistence led to him discovering his passion for sociology, amidst juggling full-time work and familial responsibilities and led him to achieve educational success. Corey's story highlights the power of determination and resilience in overcoming challenges on the path to success.

In this episode, hosts Yetunde and Emmanuel address the financial challenges often encountered by community college students, offering practical advice on navigating these obstacles. They emphasize the importance of exploration in discovering one's passion and selecting a major. Additionally, they highlight the significance of securing a first internship as a pivotal step towards building valuable skills and shaping future career paths. Tune in for tips and insights on overcoming financial barriers, pursuing academic and professional passions, and setting the groundwork for a successful educational journey.

Hey there, listeners! Tune in for an enlightening interview with Shogo, a UC Berkeley Data Science transfer, as he discusses the hurdles of balancing community college, a rigorous STEM course load, and a demanding work schedule of 25 to 30 hours per week to help him afford college. Shogo offers invaluable insights into effective time management strategies, shares his journey in securing internships, and emphasizes the significance of finding a supportive community. Additionally, he delves into the mindset necessary for overcoming challenges. This episode is packed with nuggets of wisdom and helpful advice for thriving in the community college environment – don't miss out!

Welcome back, listeners! Join us as we unpack Julio's interview, diving into the challenges students face during college assessments and their profound effects on them. You also will hear insights into selecting a transfer school, discussing key factors and pitfalls to consider. Emphasizing the importance of finding one's community within your journey, we highlight the supportive networks that foster growth, resilience, and belonging. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and practical advice, empowering you to navigate the complexities of higher education with clarity and confidence.

Welcome back! In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Julio, a first-generation college student who bravely navigated the challenges of being undocumented. Motivated by his unwavering determination for a brighter future, Julio persevered through financial hardships, daunting assessment tests, and occasional lack of family support. However, he refused to be deterred, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to his goals. Julio's journey took a turn for the better when he discovered the supportive community of Puente, where he not only found encouragement but also crafted a clear vision and a plan for success. Tune in to hear Julio's inspiring story, and be reminded of the incredible power of resilience and self-determination.

Hey listeners, welcome back! In this captivating episode, join our hosts Yetunde and Emmanuel as they debrief Kayla’s journey from the community college to the UC. Be ready to dive into reflection as they speak on the importance of self advocacy, communication and adapting to difficult transitions. Stay tuned as they unveil the importance of on-campus positions and how that can serve as the catalyst for unparalleled success. Don’t miss out on this episode filled with practical tips and inspiration.