Best TecoGuide by Inspirame Podcasts (2025)

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Guaranteed UC Admission Through CC 3:03

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3h ago3:03

3:03

Did you know that with the right preparation, you can secure guaranteed admission to six University of California campuses? The UC Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program, Let’s break it down. Step 1: Start at a Community College To qualify for TAG, you must begin your journey at a California community college. The process starts with completing…

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Secrets to Moving Between CSU & Community College 1:32

3h ago1:32

1:32

Many students worry that once they start at a university like CSU, they are “locked in.” The truth is, you have options. It is possible to attend a CSU for a semester and then transition to a community college the following term, without losing sight of your long-term goals. We’ll walk you through the key steps to make this transition smoothly, pro…

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Your Path to Certificate, Degree, or University Transfer 1:42

2h ago1:42

1:42

In this episode, we’ll explore the three primary educational goals at California community colleges. Whether you’re a first-generation student, a parent helping your child plan, or an educator guiding students, understanding these options is key to making informed decisions. Goal 1: Certificate of Achievement The first goal is the certificate of ac…

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First-Gen & Tranfer-Bound University path 57:06

2h ago57:06

57:06

The Blueprint for Grit and Corazón: An Interview with María Medrano In this feature from our Academic & Career Path Series, host Karina Gutierrez sits down with María Medrano—a first-generation college graduate, CEO and co-founder of Inspirame, and a proud “professional juggler” of motherhood, leadership, and purpose. Her incredible journey, rooted…

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Inside a Community College Counselor's World 24:59

2h ago24:59

24:59

We sat down with an experienced counselor, Jose Vallejo, from Woodland Community College, who has dedicated 25 years to supporting students in their academic and professional paths. Their story offers a look into the demands, tools, and evolving challenges of counseling in today’s higher education landscape. A Day in the Life of a College Counselor…

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Lessons on Switching Majors 56:58

4h ago56:58

56:58

Finding Your Path: From Liberia to Logistics with Sia Wilson-Gay Jr. (MBA, Tesla Logistics Manager) Sia Wilson-Gay Jr. shares his journey and the strategic value of education in breaking career plateaus. Prompted by a mentor, Sia returned to school for an MBA to gain "borrowed credibility" the essential currency that titles and degrees provide when…

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Owning Your Story & Affordable Transfer Path 48:05

4h ago48:05

48:05

Karina Gutierrez of TecoGuide introduces writer and former union organizer Filiberto Nolasco Gomez for an honest conversation about his academic and career path. Filiberto's story is one of counter-storytelling, driven by his working-class, first-generation roots in Montebello. Growing up with scarcity and unsupportive parents, his need for account…

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Your Affordable Community College Path 1:30

5h ago1:30

1:30

In this episode of our Transfer Basics Series, we speak directly to first-gen, transfer-bound students and their families about the most affordable path to a bachelor’s degree: starting at community college and transferring to a university. You’ll also hear an invitation to professionals—especially first-gen and transfer alumni—to share their journ…

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From Street Fights to Transfer - Professor G's Story 3:22

5h ago3:22

3:22

We spotlight the story—and hard-earned wisdom—of Professor G, a California Community College counselor and professor who has spent two decades guiding students through the transfer maze. A Goal That Cuts Through the Noise Professor G’s philosophy is clear: “It really doesn’t matter where you graduate from—what matters is that you graduate.” His ent…

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College Majors - What are they? 2:01

5h ago2:01

2:01

In this episode of Tecoguide, Alejandra will tackle a topic that often provokes more anxiety than midterms: choosing a major. Why Picking a Major Feels So Daunting Many students worry that declaring the “wrong” major will lock them into an unwelcome career path. The good news? The average student changes majors at least six times before finding the…

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Cracking the Community-College to RN Pathway 3:32

5h ago3:32

3:32

We unpack the community-college Registered Nursing (RN) pathway in California, spotlighting the exact steps, timelines, and pitfalls first-generation and transfer-bound students need to know. Demand for nurses is soaring nationwide: the pay is high, the work is deeply rewarding, and you literally save lives. Yet the road to the RN license is anythi…

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You Can Major in Anything and Still Be a Teacher 28:38

3d ago28:38

28:38

n this series, Professor G joins Dr. Figueroa Ramírez to explain every step toward becoming an elementary-school teacher (T.K.–6) in California. This first installment lays the academic foundation: choosing a major, meeting state competency rules, and timing your outreach to universities. 1. Any Major Can Lead to Teaching—Plan Intentionally While t…

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California Community Colleges Guide to Affordable Education 1:40

22d ago1:40

1:40

Hi, I’m Vanessa, a TecoGuide content creator, and today I’m sharing key tips to help you understand the real cost of attending a California community college—and how you might even attend for free. Understanding California Community College Tuition In California, community colleges charge a standard fee of $46 per unit to all California residents. …

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A Guide to California Community Colleges 2:30

22d ago2:30

2:30

We’re diving into an important but often misunderstood part of the California college experience: how to successfully enroll in and take courses across multiple community college districts. Whether you're exploring different programs or trying to build a flexible class schedule, this knowledge can save you time, money, and stress. California’s 72 C…

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From Community College to University - Affordable path to a Bachelors 1:30

22d ago1:30

1:30

Hi everyone, I’m Vanessa, a content creator here at TecoGuide. I’ll be sharing essential pro tips on transferring from a community college to a four-year university—a strategy that can help you save thousands and stay on track for graduation. Yes, You Can Transfer from Community College—Here’s How One of the most common questions we hear is: Can I …

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What Every Student Needs for Their First College Class 1:30

22d ago1:30

1:30

“What should I bring to my first college class?” The College Class Checklist: What You Must Bring Starting off strong means being prepared. Here's what every student should pack for their first day of class: 1. A Backpack or Book Bag It may sound obvious, but a sturdy bag is essential. You’ll need something reliable to carry your supplies across ca…

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How to Use College Counselors to Stay on Track 1:39

29d ago1:39

1:39

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to choose classes, who to ask for help, or how to stay on track to graduate, this guide is for you. Why Seeing a College Counselor Is Crucial Advice from Professor G: Visit Counselors Often According to Professor G, one of the smartest moves a student can make is seeing a college counselor regularly—and seeing d…

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How to Pay for College Without Breaking the Bank 1:36

29d ago1:36

1:36

I'm Vanessia, a TecoGuide content creator. I’ll walk you through some essential pro tips on how to pay for college—without breaking the bank. Two Main Ways to Pay for College When it comes to paying for college, students typically have two options: 1. Pay out of pocket, which means covering tuition and fees with your own money or family savings. 2.…

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How Students Can Bounce Back from Bad Grades 1:14

29d ago1:14

1:14

If you're a college student who didn’t perform well in some of your courses, don’t worry—you’re not alone. I’m Vanessa, and in today’s feature, I’m sharing pro tips to help you recover from low grades and get your academic journey back on track. Understanding Your Options: What to Do About Bad Grades Getting a D or F in college doesn’t have to dera…

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How to Start Your Community College Application 1:27

29d ago1:27

1:27

Are you thinking about enrolling in a California community college? You’re in the right place. In this post, Vanessia from the TecoGuide team shares practical, pro-level advice to help you start your California Community College application with confidence using CCCApply.org. Step 1: Go to CCCApply.org The application process begins by visiting the…

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Your CC Roadmap: Critical First Steps for Transfer and First-Gen Success. 2:03

1M ago2:03

2:03

Starting college is an exciting milestone—especially for first-generation students navigating the journey with limited guidance. If you’ve just been accepted into a community college, congratulations! But now you may be wondering, what’s next? Step 1: Get Your Student ID Your college journey officially begins once you receive your student ID. This …

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GPA Secrets for Community College 1:30

1M ago1:30

1:30

We’re breaking down one of the most frequently asked questions by students and families: Do I need a certain GPA to get into a California community college? The answer may surprise you. No GPA Requirement to Start Your Journey When it comes to initially enrolling at a California community college, there is no specific GPA requirement. That’s right—…

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What's a Metamajor 1:47

1M ago1:47

1:47

What Is a Metamajor? A metamajor is a broad group of related majors that share similar foundational courses or career interests. Colleges often organize degree programs into these categories to help students explore options within a field before choosing a specific major. This approach makes it easier for students to stay on track, reduce excess un…

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Unlocking the California Promise Grant 2:38

1M ago2:38

2:38

As a new student exploring college pathways, you'll hear many terms—financial aid, scholarships, and grants. These are more than just buzzwords; they’re tools that can make your educational journey financially possible. One such tool is the California Promise Grant, and this blog post will guide you through exactly what it is, who it benefits, and …

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Quick CIS Certs at CC: Your Career Accelerator 3:26

1M ago3:26

3:26

Why Fast and Affordable Education Matters In today’s economy, many students are navigating higher education under immense pressure—financial hardship, work responsibilities, and family obligations. The traditional four-year university path isn’t always accessible or appealing. For students asking, “What can I study quickly and affordably that will …

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Most Affordable Path to Aviation 2:57

1M ago2:57

2:57

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying planes, working in air traffic control, or becoming a highly skilled aviation technician, there’s a path that’s faster, more affordable, and more accessible than most people realize. California’s community college system, known for offering a wide array of academic and vocational programs, includes several high-qual…

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Stackable Career Certificates that Launch First-Gen Students 3:00

1M ago3:00

3:00

In today’s dynamic job market, students and working professionals alike are seeking efficient and affordable ways to gain practical skills that can immediately improve their job prospects. Woodland Community College (WCC), located just 30 minutes north of Sacramento, California, offers a powerful solution through its diverse career certificate prog…

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From the Streets to the Stage: Fast Track to College 1:32

1M ago1:32

1:32

From High School to College: A Student’s Fast-Tracked Pathway While engaging with attendees at the car show, Professor G connected with a high school junior and helped him map out an ambitious, yet achievable, educational path using the TecoGuide app. Here's the plan they crafted together: Step 1: Summer Start at American River College The student …

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Reinventing Yourself at Any Age- Latinas in Tech 1:49

1M ago1:49

1:49

This story offers an intimate glimpse into one woman’s inspiring first-time experience at the Latinas in Tech Summit. This episode showcases how resilience, mentorship, and self-belief can open new doors at any stage of life. An Invitation That Changed Everything The story begins with an invitation—from none other than Aunt Maria, the co-founder an…

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From Struggle to Spark-- A Student Career Path without College Debt 2:32

1M ago2:32

2:32

From Struggle to Self-Discovery: A High School Turning Point This story begins in Atlanta, California, where a high school student at Nogales High was struggling to stay on track. Like many students in similar situations, he was facing real challenges and uncertainty about his future. That was until a pivotal conversation with his father—a much-nee…

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How Anyone Can Start at a California Community College 9:56

1M ago9:56

9:56

California community colleges are open to everyone. Whether you’re still in high school, working full-time, or 40 years old and never graduated, you can begin your college journey today. Who Can Enroll in a California Community College? Anyone. That’s not an exaggeration. California community colleges are open-access institutions, which means they …

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Why Business is the Smartest Major for First-Gen, Transfer-Bound Students 4:59

2M ago4:59

4:59

On this episode of our Transfer Basics Series, we explore one of the most common questions I get as an educator: “What should I major in if I don’t know where to start?” Here’s the honest answer I give every time—start with business. Let me show you why. Over the years, I’ve seen too many students hesitate to even begin their college journey. Why? …

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How Student Parents Get a head Start in College - Priority Registration for First-Gen Families 1:29

2M ago1:29

1:29

What Is TecoGuide? TecoGuide is the only app built to help you navigate your college and career journey in the quickest and most affordable way possible. Created by EdTechQuity, TecoGuide is focused on opening doors to higher education and career opportunities for everyone, especially students from underrepresented and first-generation backgrounds.…

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From Cosmetology Dreams to Counseling Degrees - Karina's First-Gen Journey Through Community College and Beyond 21:29

2M ago21:29

21:29

Karina’s journey through community college was profoundly shaped by the relationships she built with two counselors: Mauricio and Sandra Guzman. She shared that she rarely trusted other counselors, choosing instead to consistently return to those who told her the truth—not to discourage, but to show her the broader opportunities she had never consi…

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From Survivor to Leader - Donnell Livingston's Journey from Incarceration to Entrepreneurial Empowerment 1:35:59

2M ago1:35:59

1:35:59

Donnell Livingston’s story is not just one of survival—it's a masterclass in transformation. From a childhood shaped by systemic neglect and incarceration, to becoming a respected entrepreneur and nonprofit leader, his journey embodies the power of resilience, the importance of mentorship, and the role of community in personal evolution. In this fi…

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Are Student Loans a Friend or a Danger? A Real Talk for First-Gen and Transfer Students 6:33

2M ago6:33

6:33

Are student loans a helpful resource—or a financial danger? Led by Counselor Liz, a seasoned guide who went from community college to a master’s degree, this discussion offers honest, practical advice for students and families trying to make the smartest decisions possible. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or preparing to transfer,…

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The 3 Class Types Every First-gen Student Should take First 1:32

2M ago1:32

1:32

In our latest episode of the Transfer Basics Series on the TecoGuide podcast, we unpack a strategic question every educator, parent, and advisor should ask: "What classes should first-gen students take first to set them up for success?" Drawing from lived experience, this short episode shares 3 foundational course types: 1. Start with Tech-Skills C…

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Unlock Free Tuition with the California College Promise Grant - A Must-Know for First-Gen Students & Families 4:48

2M ago4:48

4:48

Counselor Jose introduces the California College Promise Grant (CCPG) — an essential financial aid resource that can make community college tuition-free for eligible California students. If you're a student, parent, or educator looking for ways to make college more accessible, this guide is for you. What Is the California College Promise Grant? The…

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Drop in Knowledge for College: FAFSA Facts Every First-Gen Student Needs to Know 14:56

2M ago14:56

14:56

How to Pay for College: A Clear Guide to Financial Aid If you're wondering how to afford college, you're not alone. The good news? Financial aid is available to many students, and understanding how it works could save you thousands of dollars. What Is Financial Aid and Who Qualifies? Financial aid is essentially free or subsidized money that helps …

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How to Choose a Major Without Choosing the Wrong Career - A Guide for First-Gen Transfer Students 2:57

2M ago2:57

2:57

One of the most common misconceptions among college students, especially first-gen and community college students, is that choosing a major is the same as choosing a career. But in reality, the two don’t always align as directly as you might think. Yes, some careers—like nursing or engineering—have corresponding majors. But most college majors can …

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How to Take Math & English at Los Rios Colleges - A First-Gen Guide to Placement & Success 3:43

2M ago3:43

3:43

Whether you’re a first-generation student starting your college journey, a returning adult learner, or a parent supporting a loved one, enrolling in the right math and English courses is a crucial first step. At TecoGuide, we’re here to make that step clear and manageable. In this blog, based on insights from our Transfer Basics Series podcast, Pro…

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Hidden Resources Every First-Gem Transfer Student Should Know 4:47

2M ago4:47

4:47

On this episodes featuring Darwin, a lead academic advisor in the CSU system. We discuss the often-overlooked financial and academic resources available to first-generation and transfer students—especially when it comes to securing technology like laptops and navigating academic hardship. Whether you're a student, parent, or educational partner, th…

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No Laptop? No Problem: How First-Gen Students Can Access Free Tech on Campus - Episode 1 12:38

2M ago12:38

12:38

Navigating college without a reliable laptop or tablet can feel like trying to hike a mountain without shoes—painful, slow, and unnecessarily hard. But if you’re a student facing this reality, you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not without options. In a recent episode of the TecoGuide podcast, part of the “Ask a Counselor or Ask an Advis…

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Housing & Dining Resources Every First-Gen Student Needs to Know 8:37

2M ago8:37

8:37

This episode focused on housing and dining support services available to students, especially those attending Woodland Community College (WCC). Below is a detailed and professional summary of the resources discussed in the episode. Dining Services at Woodland Community College Eagle’s Essential Marketplace (Food Pantry) WCC’s Student Services Depar…

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How Hartnell College's SOUL Center Supports First-Gen Students Beyond the Classroom 3:46

3M ago3:46

3:46

Navigating college life is about more than just attending classes—it’s about ensuring students have the fundamental support they need to thrive. At TecoGuide, we’re committed to highlighting resources that make the college journey more affordable, manageable, and successful—especially for first-generation and transfer students. In this post, we tur…

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Hidden Resources & Real Talk-Finding Your Fit Through Categorical Programs & Student Support 33:43

3M ago33:43

33:43

Many students, especially those who commute or work while attending school, may not have the time or energy to fully engage in campus life. If you’re in that situation, that’s okay. The key takeaway is not about doing everything—but about doing what works best for you. If you can’t commit to clubs or organizations, try to: Build meaningful relation…

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Building Social Capital & Academic Success for First-Gen and Transfer Students 6:07

3M ago6:07

6:07

Success in college doesn’t come from academics alone—it comes from the relationships students cultivate throughout their journey. One of the most powerful, yet underutilized resources is the faculty advisor. These are professors who double as mentors, supporting students both inside and outside the classroom. For students at smaller colleges, where…

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How to Navigate Mental Health and Academic Support in College as a First-Gen Student 5:04

3M ago5:04

5:04

Mental health counselors are trained professionals dedicated to supporting students facing emotional, psychological, or mental health issues. Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, or other mental health challenges, these counselors provide a safe, confidential space for students to seek help. They are also mandated reporters,…

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

3M 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

3M 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 …

TecoGuide By Inspirame Podcasts