Best TecoGuide by Inspirame Podcasts (2025)

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What Every First-Gen Student Should Know About Academic Advising & College Counselors 11:08

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2d ago11:08

11:08

Navigating higher education can feel like stepping into an entirely new world, especially for first-generation college students, transfer students, or those balancing complex life challenges. One of the most critical—but often underutilized—resources in this journey is academic advising. In college, the terms academic advisor and academic counselor…

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Why One Counselor Can Change Your Entire College Journey (Especially for First-Gen Students) 5:42

2d ago5:42

5:42

Your counselor is more than an academic advisor—they’re your career coach, life mentor, and college success partner. Learn how to build that connection and why it matters for first-gen and transfer students. Beyond academics, counselors often serve as unofficial mentors, advocates, and emotional support systems. Additionally, many students come to …

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How Student Clubs Can Open Doors to Internships, Scholarships, and Global Opportunities 2:35

2d ago2:35

2:35

In this Transfer Basics Series episode, Manuel Redas shares how student clubs unlock real-world benefits—from leadership skills to international scholarships. College life isn't just about attending classes and earning grades—it’s a vibrant ecosystem filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth. One of the most impactful yet under…

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Choose the Right Academic Goal for Your Future - Certificate, Associate's. or Transfer Path 3:00

2d ago3:00

3:00

"Being unsure of your academic goal can lead to taking the wrong classes or losing your motivation to stay in college.” Knowing your goal is key! Whether you're aiming for a certificate, an associate’s degree, or planning to transfer to a university, this guide breaks down the options available at California community colleges. Don’t leave your fut…

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Fast-Track Your Career with Certificates of Achievement - A Guide for First-Gen & Community College Students 2:35

10d ago2:35

2:35

What Are Certificates of Achievement? Certificates of Achievement are structured programs that provide targeted training in specific skill areas, typically falling under Career Technical Education (CTE). These programs are designed for immediate career entry, allowing students to build strong foundations in trades and professions that are in high d…

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Start College in High School: Dual Enrollment Tips for First-Gen and Transfer-Bound Students 2:37

7d ago2:37

2:37

That’s the power of dual enrollment, a life-changing opportunity for first-gen, Latino, and Black students to earn college credit while still in high school. In this episode of our Transfer Basics Series, we walk you through everything you need to know: Dual enrollment is a program that allows high school students to take college-level courses at c…

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Mixing Passion & Purpose - A First-Gen Student's Journey from Music Dreams to Business Degree 6:45

7d ago6:45

6:45

What happens when a student’s dreams don’t match their parents’ expectations? In this week’s Transfer Basics Series, we meet a young man from Sacramento who felt stuck—pressured to go to college, but unsure of what path to take. With a little guidance, he discovered a way to honor both his creativity and his career goals. Choosing a college path ca…

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How to Navigate College Smarter, Faster, and Without the Debt 1:16

8d ago1:16

1:16

At the heart of this movement is Professor G, an experienced college counselor and professor who has spent over 20 years guiding students through the complexities of higher education. His approach is rooted in empathy—having once struggled in college himself, Professor G knows how difficult it can be to succeed in a system that feels like it was no…

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Your Affordable Path to a CSU or UC Degree - A First-Gen Guide to College Success in California 11:32

8d ago11:32

11:32

CSU Outcomes: A Gateway to Professional Careers Graduates from CSU campuses are prepared to step into essential roles throughout California. These schools were established to train professionals for fields that support the state’s infrastructure and well-being—from nurses, teachers, and social workers to engineers, government officials, and judges.…

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Choosing the Right Class Format for Your College Success 9:09

12d ago9:09

9:09

When stepping into college, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the format in which you'll take your classes. As educational opportunities continue to evolve, students are presented with flexible learning options to better suit their lifestyles, learning preferences, and responsibilities outside of school. Underst…

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How One Student Cut College Cost from $4,200 to $0 - Your Guide to California Community College Fees 5:20

16d ago5:20

5:20

Starting your college journey at a California community college can open doors to life-changing opportunities—without breaking the bank. Yet, many students and families are left confused by fee structures, residency requirements, and financial aid processes. If you're wondering how much it really costs and how to keep those costs as low as possible…

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From Farm Fields to Faculty - A first-Gen Student's Journey Through Community College and Beyond 5:47

22d ago5:47

5:47

Mauricio’s educational journey begins in the Salinas Valley, raised by Mexican immigrant parents and working janitorial jobs to help his family survive. But his story doesn't end there, it’s just the beginning. In this inspiring episode of our Transfer Basics Series, we follow his path from Cuesta Community College to a bachelor’s from Sonoma State…

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From Migrant Roots to Doctoral heights - A First-Gen Student's Roadmap to College & Career Success 7:04

25d ago7:04

7:04

Meet Counselor Abe: A Testament to Educational Resilience. Navigating the road to higher education can be complex, especially for first-generation, low-income, and minority students. But stories like that of Abraham Madrigal, also known as Counselor Abe, offer both guidance and hope. Currently a full-time counselor at Sacramento State and a part-ti…

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Student Loans- Friends or Financial Trap? A First-Gen Guide to Smarter Borrowing 6:14

30d ago6:14

6:14

“Free money first. Loans last.” This powerful mantra from Counselor Liz anchors a compelling episode in our Transfer Basics Series. For many first-generation and community college students, student loans can feel like the only option, but that’s far from the truth. In this episode, you’ll learn how to avoid unnecessary debt through scholarships, gr…

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Financial Aid Basics: Are You a Dependent or Independent Student? 4:16

1M ago4:16

4:16

When you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (#FAFSA), you’ll be asked to provide detailed information about your income and family size. This data helps the federal government determine your eligibility for financial aid—particularly grants designed for students with the greatest financial need, such as those from low-income back…

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FAFSA vs. Dream Act - A first-Gen Student's Guide to Unlocking College Financial Aid in California 4:24

1M ago4:24

4:24

If you're pursuing college in California, there are only two financial aid applications you need to know about: #FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid California Dream Act Application (#CADAA) – for undocumented and certain eligible students FAFSA: Free and Widely Applicable. The FAFSA is the main application for federal and state financ…

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How Federal Work Study Helps First-Gen and Transfer Students Earn While They Learn 5:07

1M ago5:07

5:07

What is Federal Work Study? Federal Work Study is a form of financial aid that offers part-time employment to eligible students. These jobs are designed to help students pay for college-related expenses such as tuition, books, supplies, and transportation. Unlike a traditional job, the earnings from FWS are funded by the federal government and are …

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Emergency Funds, Real Help - How San Francisco Bay University Supports Students in Crisis 9:01

1M ago9:01

9:01

When education is your dream, but life throws a crisis your way, who shows up for you? At San Francisco Bay University, the Student Emergency Fund offers direct financial support and community-based services to ensure students stay enrolled, even during their toughest moments. Up to $650/year in emergency grants Food referrals & pantry access A cam…

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First to Go, First to Grow - One Latina Counselor's Journey Through Culture, College, and Courage 9:44

2M ago9:44

9:44

In this powerful episode of our Transfer Basics Series, Sandra, now a professor and counselor, shares her journey from breaking cultural norms to earning a master’s degree and creating spaces for Latino students through Puente and the Raza Center. Her story proves that being the first isn’t easy, but it opens doors for everyone who comes after. Aft…

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From Picking Tomatoes to Picking Majors 10:22

2M ago10:22

10:22

In this Transfer Basics Series feature, Jose Vallejo shares his emotional journey from a tomato-picking childhood to becoming a respected community college counselor. With raw honesty, Jose reveals the struggles of being a first-gen student, the power of finding your “why,” and how building relationships on campus changed everything. Whether you’re…

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Discover San Francisco Bay University - An Affordable Private Option for Business & Computer Science Majors 3:22

2M ago3:22

3:22

Living in the Bay Area can be notoriously expensive, a major hurdle for students looking to attend school there. SFBU tackles this by offering subsidized student housing, which means lower-than-market rent prices that reduce your total cost of attendance. This alone can make attending SFBU much more feasible than other institutions in the region. O…

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From Boxcars to Bachelor's- A First-Gen College Success Story Rooted in Culture and Community 6:48

2M ago6:48

6:48

What does it take to succeed in college when you’re the first in your family to go? In this heartfelt Transfer Basics Series feature, retired college counselor Manuel Reyes shares his powerful story, from a humble childhood in a railroad worker’s colony to a degree from UC Davis and a career serving thousands of students. Key moments include: Growi…

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From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Learning to be a Student changed Everything 3:18

2M ago3:18

3:18

In this inspiring launch of our Transfer Basics Series, Josh Kahn shares how losing a full-ride scholarship and dropping out of college became the turning point that taught him how to truly be a student. This episode is packed with tips on time management, planning, and building habits for academic success, especially for first-gen and transfer-bou…

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From Flunking out to Finishing Strong - One First-Gen Student's Comeback Story 5:45

2M ago5:45

5:45

"I flamed out of college. Lost my scholarship. Worked in a warehouse. Then… I came back, graduated with honors, and earned my master’s.” In this Transfer Basics Series episode of TecoGuide, Josh Kahn shares his real and relatable journey, from academic failure to professional success. His experience underscores the importance of equitable access, s…

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From Surviving to Thriving: A First-Gen Transfer Journey Through CC & UC Berkeley 4:59

2M ago4:59

4:59

"Most of the time, it's not others telling you no. It's you telling yourself no." Meet Alejandra, a first-generation student who grew up in low-income housing, the youngest of six, and began working at age 14. College wasn’t in her plan. She had no idea what came after high school, until she heard about “free money” for college. That one sentence l…

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TAG Your Future: The Easiest Way to Get Into a UC 8:10

3M ago8:10

8:10

How to Secure a Guaranteed Spot at a #UC Campus: Understanding the UC Transfer Admission Guarantee (#TAG) Program Navigating the path from community college to a University of California (UC) campus can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Six campuses offer you a guaranteed spot through the Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program. Find out w…

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CSU Secrets: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Major 6:32

3M ago6:32

6:32

The CSU system spans 23 campuses across California and offers approximately 4,000 degree programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. That’s a tremendous array of opportunities for students across a wide range of interests and career paths. However, not all CSU campuses offer the same majors. For instance, Sac State has 16 undergradua…

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The Transfer Trap 1:43

3M ago1:43

1:43

In California, 85% of Black and Latino students in community college don’t make it to a university within four years. The issue isn’t the students, it’s the system. In this podcast, we introduce #TecoGuide, the free app that helps students navigate the complex transfer process. Learn how we’re changing the game for California’s future. We didn’t bu…

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From Campus to Career: The TecoGuide Transfer Blueprint 1:22

3M ago1:22

1:22

Thinking about #transferring to a #CSU, #UC, private Institutions or even an out-of-state school? Learn how community college can be your most affordable first step to a bachelor’s degree. Professor G breaks it all down. Take control of your education! Starting at a community college doesn’t mean taking a shortcut. It means making a strategic and a…

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Guaranteed UC Admission? Here's How. 6:25

4M ago6:25

6:25

We’re unpacking the UC TAG system, a powerful route for CA community college students to secure a UC campus spot. From who qualifies to when to apply, #TecoGuide has you covered. Participating in TAG comes with multiple advantages: Early Review: Students receive an early evaluation of their academic records. Advance Admission Notification: Early de…

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Crack the UC Transfer Code 8:31

4M ago8:31

8:31

#TRANSFER TO UC SUCCESSFULLY! Personal Insight Questions Explained Get the UC edge! In this #TecoGuide episode, Counselor Huy walks you through exactly how to craft standout personal insight responses for your #UC transfer application. Learn what admissions officers really want to see, plus tips to showcase your strengths, background, and academic …

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Crush College: Strategies That Work 7:24

4M ago7:24

7:24

Success in college isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Start by getting organized. Create a weekly study plan, for every unit you take, dedicate two hours of study time. If you’re taking 15 units, aim for 30 study hours per week. Preview course material before class—come prepared with questions. Review and rewrite notes to reinfo…

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College Accommodations: Get the Support You Deserve 5:23

4M ago5:23

5:23

Ever feel like you're struggling more than your classmates to focus, stay organized, or understand material? It might not be a lack of effort, it could be a learning disability or ADHD that was never diagnosed. The good news? Many community colleges offer testing or can refer you to local resources. If you qualify, your Disability Resource Center c…

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Debt or Degree? Making Smart College Choices 9:57

4M ago9:57

9:57

Are you struggling to juggle work, school, and life? You’re not alone. Many California students have to work while pursuing their degrees. But here’s the thing: staying in school longer because of work may cost you MORE in the long run. Smart Financial Moves: Consider part-time work + student loans to stay focused on school. Look into CalFresh (foo…

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Study Smarter, Not Harder 16:34

4M ago16:34

16:34

Are you struggling with balancing classes, studying, and personal responsibilities? Effective time management is the key to excelling in college without feeling overwhelmed. Here’s how you can take control of your academic life: Use a planner or digital calendar: Whether you prefer writing things down or using an app, schedule your study sessions i…

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Campus Secrets: Free Help You're Missing 7:41

4M ago7:41

7:41

Are you making the most of your college's academic support services? Many students don’t realize just how many resources are available to help them succeed, not just academically, but also emotionally and socially. From tutoring centers to academic counseling, study groups, and professor office hours, your campus is equipped with tools to support y…

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Your College Game Plan: Strategies for Success from Day One 9:24

4M ago9:24

9:24

Starting college can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. From learning how to register for classes to understanding deadlines, campus resources, and even finding the best way to buy textbooks, preparation is key. Here are some pro tips: Attend orientation or meet with an academic counselor if you missed it. Use a laptop or t…

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Mastering College: The Ultimate Guide 11:30

4M ago11:30

11:30

Thinking about community college? Whether your goal is to earn a certificate, complete an associate’s degree, or transfer to a CSU or UC, California community colleges offer numerous pathways to success. Not sure what path to take? That’s okay! Career and academic counselors are available to help you figure out the best options for your future. Fro…

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The Smart Way to College 25:47

4M ago25:47

25:47

The California Community Colleges offer an accessible, affordable, and flexible path to higher education and career advancement. With 115 campuses, numerous financial aid opportunities, and a variety of programs, there is truly something for everyone. Did you know that most students at California Community Colleges pay $0 for tuition? With financia…

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Debt-Free Degrees: Your Best College Options 5:44

4M ago5:44

5:44

Whether you're a high school student planning your next steps, a working adult considering a career change, or someone returning to school later in life, California offers #affordable and accessible higher education paths. California Community Colleges – 116 colleges, only $46 per unit, and often free for first-time students! California State Unive…

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Power Moves: Win Against Unfair Treatment 7:21

4M ago7:21

7:21

Have you ever experienced unfair treatment on a college campus? It happens more often than we’d like to admit—whether in the classroom, financial aid office, or even during a routine interaction on campus. At #TecoGuide, we believe students should have the knowledge and confidence to advocate for themselves. If you ever feel belittled, dismissed, o…

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College Curveballs: What to Do When Your School Isn't the Right FIt 3:29

4M ago3:29

3:29

Choosing the right university is a big decision, but what if you realize that your school isn't the right fit? You're not alone—thousands of students face this dilemma every year. Whether it's due to academics, social life, or homesickness, making a change is possible. Option 1: Withdraw or Take a Leave of Absence If you need to leave immediately, …

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Campus Hacks: How to Get the Support Colleges Owe You 4:22

4M ago4:22

4:22

Navigating college can be challenging, especially when trying to meet with a counselor who keeps canceling your appointments. At #TecoGuide, we know this struggle all too well. As a college student, you are being trained to become a professional, and professionals keep records. Maintaining a log not only keeps you organized but also serves as evide…

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Prove Them Wrong: Overcoming Doubt in College and Life 2:54

4M ago2:54

2:54

Have you ever been told you’re not smart enough, not good enough, or just not “college material”? If so, you’re not alone. Many students face discouragement before they even have the chance to prove themselves. But here’s the truth: Your potential isn’t defined by what others say. Everyone is capable of learning, growing, and achieving. The only th…

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Financial Aid Secrets College Won't Tell You 8:16

4M ago8:16

8:16

Applying for financial aid can feel like taking another college course—confusing, frustrating, and full of obstacles. But Professor G shares a powerful strategy: document everything, follow up persistently, and demand clarity. Here’s how to ensure your financial aid is handled correctly: Keep detailed records—dates, names, submission statuses Follo…

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Fast-Track Your Future 34:37

4M ago34:37

34:37

Thinking about college but worried about costs? You’re not alone! Fortunately, California Community Colleges offer an affordable and accessible path to higher education. You can: Earn a career certificate in fields like business, healthcare, and technology Complete an associate degree in nursing, marketing, computer science, and more Transfer to a …

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Your Degree, Your Way: Mastering College Without Breaking the Bank 29:14

5M ago29:14

29:14

The California Community College system is the largest system of higher education in the United States, comprising 115 colleges across 72 districts. One of the biggest advantages of the California Community College system is its #affordability. Historically, CCCs were tuition-free, and while that has changed over time, they remain one of the most c…

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From Zero to Degree: How to Get Into College for Free 13:24

5M ago13:24

13:24

Thinking about college but worried about cost, classes, or where to start? Let me tell you a secret: California Community Colleges (CCC) are your best-kept opportunity. Easier admissions – Just apply and enroll. Easier class registration – More availability and flexibility. Easier on your wallet – Most students pay nothing for tuition! Over 80% of …

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Community College to University: The real Story 9:09

5M ago9:09

9:09

Thinking about transferring from a community college to a university? You're not alone! Many students dream of making the transition, but it’s not always as simple as two years and done. Karina, a student who transferred from Sacramento City College to Sacramento State, shares her journey. She took four years to complete community college because s…

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The College Cost Trap: How to Get the Same Degree for Half the Price 11:25

5M ago11:25

11:25

College is expensive. With tuition, housing, and fees, students can end up owing over $100,000 by the time they graduate. But what if there was a smarter, more affordable path? Community colleges offer open access, flexibility, and low to no cost tuition for most students. You can explore different subjects, take your time finding your passion, and…

TecoGuide By Inspirame Podcasts