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 considered.

Even after transferring to a four-year university, Karina continued to seek their guidance. This long-term support system became an anchor, helping her transition smoothly into university life and even beyond into graduate school. Their consistent encouragement, honesty, and strategic advice gave Karina the confidence to pursue a future she never imagined possible.

Expectations vs. Reality: The True College Experience

Karina initially envisioned community college as a place where she could train in cosmetology, but her plans shifted drastically in her first semester. Instead of hair and makeup courses, Mauricio enrolled her in anthropology and the Puente program. That unexpected redirection introduced her to a small learning community that offered peer connections, academic support, and social enrichment through field trips and activities.

These experiences allowed Karina to feel more comfortable in college, foster friendships, and start seeing herself as part of a professional, academic environment. Looking back, she was grateful for the detour: “I’m happy that I didn’t pick cosmetology,” she reflected.

Counseling as a Lifeline and Lifelong Resource

Karina’s story also highlights the extended value of strong student-counselor relationships. Community college professionals, like Mauricio and Alejandra, do more than offer academic advice—they help students with life decisions, guide them through career transitions, and often provide lasting mentorship.

This relationship often extends well past graduation. Former students return for letters of recommendation, job referrals, and application advice for graduate school or scholarships. These connections are a critical asset, especially for first-generation or undocumented students navigating unfamiliar systems.

Facing Financial Barriers with Resilience and Resources

As an undocumented student, Karina faced significant financial challenges when starting college. With no initial access to financial aid, her father helped cover tuition and books—a burden that was only lightened later by programs like the California Dream Act and the Promise Grant (formerly the BOG Fee Waiver). These resources allowed her to continue her education with less financial pressure and eventually secure work under DACA.

Her experience underscores the importance of disseminating financial aid information, especially to students from immigrant or low-income backgrounds. Programs like the California College Promise Grant provide powerful opportunities for affordable education and should be emphasized during high school and early college advising.

From Community College to Graduate School

Karina didn’t just complete her associate degrees—she earned two: one in psychology and another in social science. She then transferred to Sacramento State, graduating in 2017 with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Counseling. It was through that counseling minor that she found her calling and decided to pursue a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of San Francisco.

Looking ahead, Karina is on track to graduate with her master’s degree in Spring 2022. Her story is a powerful example of how persistence, mentorship, and institutional support can guide a student from uncertainty to academic and professional fulfillment.

Karina’s journey is a reminder that the first step—no matter how uncertain—can lead to unimaginable success. If you’re unsure about your next move, don’t wait. Connect with a counselor, enroll in a class, join a program like Puente, and start building your future today.

You have more options than you think. Let Karina’s story be your inspiration to explore them.

#TecoGuide, the only app designed to help you navigate your college and career journey in the quickest and most affordable way. Brought to you by #EdTechQuity, we are committed to opening doors to higher education and career opportunities for all.

Thank you for tuning into #TecoGuide, the app dedicated to providing valuable insights on education and career success. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and share.

Visit our website https://www.inspirame.com/ and Download the app today

#TecoGuide #Inspirame #CollegeTransfer #STEMCareer #FirstGenSuccess #EducationEquity #CommunityCollege #CollegePathway #TransferJourney #LatinoExcellence #HigherEducation #EdTech #CollegeNavigation #TransferSuccess #LatinoStudents #BlackStudents #AffordableCollege #CommunityCollegeToUniversity #HigherEducationAccess #TransferPlanning