Who shapes what Texas students learn? Dr. Jose Saldivar talks with Thomas Ray Garcia, an educator and candidate for the Texas State Board of Education (District 2), about curriculum, textbooks, graduation requirements, charter approvals, and what families are truly concerned about right now: literacy, safety, and the attention economy.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Jillian Reilly (joining us from Cape Town, South Africa) to talk about the invisible ?success script? so many students feel pressured to follow ? and how to rewrite it with courage, clarity, and action.

We unpack:

Why the ?linear life? is a myth (and what to do instead)

How to stop outsourcing your choices to approval from others

The difference between support, resources? and permission

A practical way to take your next step even when you?re unsure

Jillian is the author of ?The 10 Permissions,? and her message is simple: get out into the real world, and let it teach you.

? Listen now, then share this episode with one student (or parent) who needs a reset.

Learn more: https://tenpermissions.com/

Too many families are told, ?Just apply for scholarships,? and then left to figure it out alone?while tuition climbs and student debt keeps stacking.

To kick off a new season of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Jocelyn Pearson, founder of The Scholarship System, to break down what actually works when you?re trying to make college affordable?especially for families stuck in the ?income gap? (not enough aid, not enough cash).

You?ll hear:

How to ?follow the money? when choosing schools (and why affordability starts before scholarships)

A simple weekly routine (think: 2 hours/week) that keeps scholarship stress from taking over your life

What to avoid with ?easy? scholarships and inbox-filling traps

How to build reusable materials (essays, stories, lists) so you?re not starting from scratch every time

The biggest myths that derail parents and students?and the mindset shift that gets results

? Listen now, and check the link to access The Scholarship System site and their resources:

https://thescholarshipsystem.com/waytocollege

If this episode helps you, follow the show, share it with a parent or student who needs a plan, and leave a quick rating?it really helps more families find the podcast.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar talks with Kevin Krebs, a first-generation college graduate and founder of Hello College. Kevin shares how his parents? belief that education is the great equalizer shaped his journey from immigrant roots to Northwestern University and ultimately to building one of the world?s leading college planning companies.

He offers practical advice for students and families navigating the admissions process ? including his SAFE framework (Social, Academic, Financial, and Employment fit) ? and insights on staying resilient, proactive, and prepared.

? Learn more at sayhellocollege.com

In this week?s episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with motivational speaker and author Jonathan Medina ? America?s #1 School Motivator.

From a shy middle schooler in the Rio Grande Valley to a Georgetown University graduate and national speaker, Jonathan shares how a single college visit through GEAR UP sparked his dream, how one counselor?s doubt nearly stopped him, and how another educator?s belief changed everything.

Listen as Jonathan reflects on his journey, his advice for students starting college, and his message to all educators: ?Dream big, and help others do the same.?

?? Tune in and get inspired. Don't forget to share the episode and inspire others.

#podcast #latino #dreambig #jonathanmedina #georgetown #gearupworks

In Part II of my conversation with Dr. Cristóbal Rodríguez, Associate Vice Provost for Equity-Centered Initiatives at Arizona State University, we explore the politics shaping education today?and the urgent need to build coalitions across communities.

Dr. Rodríguez discusses the threats facing public education, the role of systemic inequality, and how division undermines opportunity for all students. But amid the challenges, he reminds us that hope endures?in the stories of students, families, and educators who continue to plant seeds for a better future.

Join us as we reflect on what it means to educate, to lead, and to believe in the collective power of communities working together for change.

?? Listen now and share this episode with someone who believes education should remain a public good for all.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Dr. Cristóbal Rodríguez, a leading voice in education policy and equity. From growing up in El Paso to earning a congressional scholarship that took him to Germany at age 16, Dr. Rodríguez shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey. He reflects on working with migrant and tribal communities, serving on the White House Commission on Educational Excellence, and why affirming students? cultural and familial assets is critical to building opportunity.

This is a conversation about purpose, resilience, and the ongoing fight for educational access.

? Listen now and be inspired by Dr. Rodríguez?s story of service, community, and leadership.

This week on The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar speaks with brothers Jack and Evan Goldstein about their unique journeys and their mission to transform the college search experience for students.

Jack Goldstein is a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania, studying political science and exploring opportunities in law and politics.

Evan Goldstein is a high school sophomore at Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon, navigating extracurriculars, mock trial, and his first steps toward college.

Together, they co-founded Quadzio, a platform that connects high school students directly with college ambassadors across more than 110 campuses. Their goal? To give students an authentic look into campus life?beyond brochures and scripted tours.

? In this episode:

How mock trial and internships shaped Jack?s academic path

Evan?s perspective on preparing for the college journey

Why traditional college tours often fall short

The story behind Quadzio and its fast-growing network of ambassadors

Whether you?re a student, parent, or educator, this conversation underscores the importance of authentic voices in helping students make one of life?s most significant decisions.

What does it mean to follow curiosity through every stage of life?

This week, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Ben Yzaguirre, Vice President of Education & Conferences at the School Nutrition Association. From a childhood spent exploring his home in rural Maryland to teaching high school history, to designing curriculum, and ultimately finding his place in the world of associations, Ben?s story highlights the importance of staying true to yourself while embracing change.

In this episode, Ben shares:

How boredom sparked a lifelong curiosity

Why small colleges can be the right fit for introverts

Lessons learned from leaving the classroom

Overcoming imposter syndrome when working with world-class experts

The role of associations in professional and personal growth

? Quote to remember: ?Be bored, and then be curious.?

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on education, career pivots, and building a fulfilling professional journey.

This week, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Iuri Melo, licensed clinical social worker, author, and co-founder of SchoolPulse. From his journey growing up in Portugal to building a proactive student mental health platform, Iuri shares how adaptability, curiosity, and a commitment to growth shaped his path.

In this episode:

The twists and turns of Iuri?s educational journey

Why it?s okay to not have ?just one? purpose or career path

How SchoolPulse is redefining student mental fitness

Practical advice for students: go into the world with confidence

? Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, reinvention, and the importance of proactive mental health support for young people.

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I welcome Daniel Santos, founder and CEO of Prepory. They have guided over 14,000 students worldwide through the college admissions process.

Daniel opens up about his educational journey, the lessons he learned along the way, and how those experiences inspired him to help students and families navigate the complex college admissions process.

www.prepory.com

Listen in as we discuss:
?? Why starting early in high school is critical
?? How authenticity beats any ?secret formula?
?? The importance of reflection and challenging the stories we tell ourselves
?? Why the how of college matters more than the where

Whether you?re a student preparing for applications or a parent supporting your child, this episode offers valuable strategies and perspective.

#CollegeJourney #AdmissionsProcess #Prepory #CollegeReadiness #EducationPodcast #StudentSuccess #TheWayToCollege

Trailblazer La Tonya ?LT? Rease Miles returns to share the story behind her memoir Smart Girl and new Smart Girl podcast. We talk first-gen identity, breaking the ?one path? myth, and why telling your story matters now more than ever. Check it out, now! #firstgen #smartgirl #podcast #journey #paths #story

Smart Girl Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2459505/episodes/17411979

In this episode, I sit down with Justin Reyes?South Texas native, Texas A&M alum, and mission-driven professional?who shares his powerful journey from a small ranching town to leadership roles in national associations and professional networks.

Justin opens up about:

The influence of his hardworking mother

Navigating imposter syndrome and academic probation in college

How getting involved transformed his college experience

The unexpected career path that led him to Washington, D.C.

His advice for first-year students and those applying to college now

Whether you?re a student, educator, or professional, this episode is a reminder that your path may not be linear?but it?s always yours to shape.

? Tune in and get inspired by Justin?s story of resilience, growth, and service.

#TheWayToCollegePodcast #FirstGenVoices #CollegeSuccess #LatinoLeadership

Pamela Maldonado?sports betting analyst for ESPN and the Tennis Channel?joins The Way to College Podcast to share how she transformed curiosity, hustle, and self-taught skills into a national media career.

We explore:

Her bold move from Texas to Las Vegas with no plan

Breaking into media without a journalism degree

Lessons from poker that apply to life and work

How she built a brand around analysis and storytelling

The power of leaning into what brings you joy

Pamela?s story is a reminder that success isn?t always planned?and that sometimes, taking a chance on yourself is the best bet you can make.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Sam Bernstein, co-founder of Loper, a free mobile app designed to guide high school students through their college and career exploration journey.

Sam shares how his professional journey started at a prestigious hedge fund in New York City. Feeling unfulfilled, Sam began creating a student-centered tech platform to address educational inequality. We dive into his personal journey, the pivotal moments that reshaped his purpose, and how Loper is helping students discover the right post-high school path?whether it?s a four-year university, trade school, or something else entirely.

? Highlights:

Why Sam walked away from Wall Street

The role of privilege and perspective in college access

How Loper personalizes the college discovery process

Advice for students feeling overwhelmed by decisions

?Time is long,? Sam reminds us, encouraging young people to be patient with the process and open to growth along the way.

?? Tune in to hear how one app is helping students reimagine what comes next.

In this episode, attorney Ezra Brown joins me to share his powerful journey?from growing up in a working-class Jewish household to practicing law and leading pro bono efforts at the border. Ezra opens up about the culture shock of attending UT Law, the hard lessons he learned navigating the LSAT, and the strategies he used to avoid crushing law school debt. He also offers actionable advice for aspiring law students, especially those from first-gen backgrounds.

? Whether you're thinking about law school or passionate about educational equity, Ezra?s story is packed with insight, honesty, and hard-won wisdom. #lawschooljourney #firstgenlawyer #attorney #biglaw #lawschooltips #educationalequity #accesstoeducation #higheredmatters #firstgensuccess #careertalk #inspirationdaily #storytelling

Maria Jose Cook moved to the U.S. at 14, undocumented and uncertain about her future. Today, Maria is the Associate Director at ISPOR and travels the world connecting leaders in healthcare. In this episode, Maria shares how self-advocacy, grit, and staying true to her values helped her build a fulfilling life and career. A must-listen for anyone navigating uncertainty or carving out their unique path. Let's jump in.

#podcast #healthcare #journey #nonprofit #latina #latinaleadership #story

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I?m joined by Sam Garcia?a Mission, Texas native who went from taking dual credit courses at South Texas College to earning a degree from Harvard Law and becoming a partner at the venture capital firm Amplo.

In this episode, Sam shares:

How early planning (and a few strategic A?s) helped him get into Harvard Law

Why dual credit courses in high school can shape your future more than you think

What it means to take smart risks?even when you don?t have it all figured out

His path from law school to teaching at Harvard and leading VC deals

The story behind writing for Forbes and The Guardian while still a student

? Whether you're a student, educator, or professional, Sam?s journey is a masterclass in intentionality, hustle, and saying yes to opportunity.

? Listen now and learn how to stack the odds in your favor?starting today.

From immigrant kid in Miami to Executive Director of a national organization, Dr. Celia Chomon Zamora?s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and radical self-belief. In this episode, we talk about the power of language, walking away from West Point, navigating rejection, and finding your true calling?even when it doesn?t come with a roadmap. Celia opens up about leading with purpose, advocating for heritage speakers, and why failure is often the best teacher.

? Whether you're a student, educator, or mid-career dreamer, this is for you. Let's jump in!

What does it take to leave a stable career, move countries, and start a company from scratch?all in the name of purpose? In this episode, Sharon Samjitsingh, CEO and co-founder of Healthcare Originals, shares her inspiring journey from Trinidad and Tobago to Rochester, NY, where she launched a startup helping people with asthma and COPD thrive. We talk resilience, first-gen college life, the immigrant founder experience, and why the long game matters more than overnight success. Check it out!

#EdEquity #WomenInTech #FoundersJourney #CollegeToCareer #TheWayToCollegePodcast #ImmigrantFounder #FirstGenSuccess

This week, Felida Villarreal, President and CEO of VIDA eht no em snioj ,podcast. From early college to CPA to nonprofit leadership, Felida shares how her educational journey and openness to opportunity led her to mission-driven work transforming lives across the Rio Grande Valley. This is definitely an episode you don't want to miss.

In this powerful episode, author Dorotea Reyna shares her journey from a small South Texas pueblo to Stanford and UT Austin?and how language, identity, and memory shaped her path. We discuss the bittersweet experience of gaining academic success while feeling cultural loss, the power of storytelling, and what inspired her to write Los Cedros: A Tejana Memoir.

From resisting silence to honoring her community with words, Dorotea reminds us that our voices matter?and that sometimes, writing is the most powerful form of resistance.

? Get her book: Los Cedros: A Tejana Memoir

? Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

? New Episode Drop!

Carlos Cardenas is living proof that detours don?t define you ? persistence does.

From serving his country to serving his community, Carlos opens up about his educational journey, his battles with self-doubt, and his drive to elevate Latino leadership.

If you?ve ever needed a reminder that your story isn?t over, this is it.

? Listen now!

#Persistence #VeteranVoices #LatinoExcellence #WayToCollegePodcast

In this episode, I sit down with Mayra Valle?educational consultant, facilitator, and owner of Mayra V. Strategy. From growing up in a close-knit immigrant community in Houston to launching her own consulting business, Mayra shares a journey rooted in resilience, culture, and community. We talk about identity, the power of education, learning to rest, and what it truly means to be community-made.

? Topics: first-gen student experience, college transitions, education equity, entrepreneurship, cultural identity, self-care

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Vanessa Fonseca Chavez?Associate Dean of Inclusion and Student Success and Assistant Vice Provost at Arizona State University?takes us through her powerful journey from rural New Mexico to academic leadership.

Vanessa reflects on the early experiences that shaped her?being underestimated, navigating college as a young mother, and discovering her purpose through language and culture. Her story is one of grit, identity, and the impact of community support.

Whether you're a student trying to find your way, a professional facing self-doubt, or someone searching for meaning in your work?this episode is for you.

Tune in to hear:
? Why resilience matters more than a perfect GPA
? The value of asking questions and owning what you don?t know
? How embracing your identity can lead to professional purpose

#journey #grit #resilience #education #latina #Chicana #newmexico #asu

Ep. 181 ? Caroline Graham: Reinvention, Resilience & the Power of Showing Up

From ballet dreams and Stanford ambitions to the classrooms of East Palo Alto and a career at Boeing, Caroline Graham?s story is a powerful reminder that our paths are rarely linear. In this episode, Caroline shares how love, loss, and an unshakable belief in meaningful work shaped her journey. We talk about navigating career pivots, embracing failure, the importance of asking for help, and finding purpose in unexpected places.

Whether you?re chasing a dream, starting over, or simply trying to figure things out?Caroline?s story will move you.

Let's jump into it!

How does one go from being a first-generation college student to a trailblazing educator? In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Roberta Treviño shares her inspiring journey through higher education, the mentors who shaped her path, and her mission to create opportunities for future generations.

Dr. Treviño?s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of education to transform lives. Whether you?re a student navigating your college journey or an educator looking for ways to support first-gen learners, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Check it out now and don't forget to share the podcast.

#FirstGenSuccess #EducationMatters #zapata #southtexas #latina #TheWaytoCollegePodcast

? Episode 179: Finding Purpose Through Conservation with Sara Lopez ?

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, we sit down with Sara Lopez, founder of The Jungle Journal, to explore her inspiring journey from the fast-paced world of advertising in New York to the heart of rainforest conservation in Mexico?s Lacandona Jungle.

Sara shares how studying abroad in Morocco first ignited her passion for cultural exploration, why she walked away from corporate life to pursue more meaningful work, and how she?s now using storytelling and education to raise awareness about environmental conservation.

? Listen as we discuss:
?? The power of stepping outside your comfort zone
?? Finding purpose through travel and cultural connection
?? The evolution of The Jungle Journal from a publication to a movement
?? Why educating young people about conservation is more important than ever

Sara?s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, forging your path leads to the most fulfilling work.

#Podcast #PodcastEpisode #NewPodcast #PodcastLife #Podcaster #Conservation #Rainforest #EnvironmentalAwareness #Sustainability #EcoWarrior #EducationMatters #StudentSuccess #LifelongLearning #Inspiration #Motivation #GrowthMindset #FollowYourPassion #LevelUp? Tune in now!

How do you stand out in a competitive world? Kelley Francis, Executive Director of the High Tech Foundation, shares her inspiring journey from a determined high school student to a leader in tech education. In this episode, we talk about the power of boldness, the impact of mentorship, and why stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to your biggest breakthroughs.Tag a friend who needs to hear this! ?? #WayToCollegePodcast #Mentorship #CareerSuccess #BoldMoves #TechEducation

?? From Stand-Up to Standout: The Journey of Jacob James Garcia

What happens when a stand-up comedian discovers his true stage isn?t just comedy clubs, but classrooms and conferences?

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Jacob James Garcia, a comedian-turned-motivational speaker and children?s author. Jacob shares his incredible journey?how 23 years in stand-up prepared him for a career inspiring students, educators, and professionals with humor, perspective, and heartfelt storytelling.

We talk about resilience, finding purpose in unexpected places, and why embracing life?s detours can lead to the most fulfilling destinations. Whether you're chasing a dream, navigating career shifts, or simply in need of a good laugh, this episode is for you!

Check it out now and don't forget to share the episode with one other person. #podcast #journey #MotivationalSpeaker #Inspiration #MindsetMatters #DreamBigWorkHard #BeYourOwnBoss #Comedian #StandUpComedy #ComedyLife #LaughOutLoud #Humor #Hopecore #PositiveVibes #GrowthMindset #Resilience #OvercomingObstacles

?? From Setbacks to Growth: A Conversation with Dr. Michelle Singh

What if the setbacks in your life were actually stepping stones to something greater?

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Michelle Singh, an educator, consultant, and advocate for culturally responsive teaching. From being turned away from school as a child in Jamaica to earning multiple degrees and transforming education, Michelle?s journey is a powerful lesson in resilience, self-discovery, and redefining success.

We talk about the pressures of academic achievement, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of seeing the lesson and the blessing in every challenge. Whether you're a student, educator, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you inspired.

#PodcastCommunity #ShareYourStory #SubscribeNow #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EdLeadership #Inspiration #Motivation #Empowerment #NeverGiveUp #Leadership

In Part 2 of my conversation with John Espinoza, we dive into his journey as a writer, educator, and advocate for undocumented students. From teaching at the National Hispanic University to becoming a trusted "poetry coach" for Sandra Cisneros, John shares how creativity and community shaped his unconventional career. #TheWayToCollegePodcast #EducationMatters #JohnEspinoza #UndocumentedStudents #LifelongLearning #podcast #journey #sandracisneros #latinoliterature #writing #writingcoach

Episode 174: Poetry, Perseverance, and Pathways ? A Conversation with John Espinoza (Part I)

In this episode, I visit with poet and writer John Olivarez Espinoza to explore his educational journey, creative pursuits, and the life experiences that shaped his art. From growing up in rural Southern California to finding his voice through poetry, John shares poignant stories about family, identity, and navigating higher education as a first-generation college student. He also reads his evocative poem, Achy Knees in Palm Springs, giving listeners a glimpse into his acclaimed collection, The Date Fruit Elegies. Don?t miss this inspiring first part of John?s story, filled with reflections on resilience, creativity, and community. Check it out and don't forget to share the podcast with one person. John and I would appreciate it. #podcast #journey #poet #literaryconsultant #indio #writer #story #firstgen #latino

This week on, The Way to College Podcast, I am joined again by Dr. Jose Navarro. This is the second part of our conversation and in this episode Dr. Navarro talks about navigating graduate school and his post-graduate career pathway. If you've ever thought about teaching in higher education, check out this enlightening conversation. Let's go! #podcast #thewaytocollegepodcast #journey #graduateschool #gradstudies #education #latino #chicano #highered

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I?m joined by Dr. Jose Navarro, Chair of the Ethnic Studies Department at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Despite his impressive academic achievements, Jose?s path to success was far from straightforward. In this episode, we delve into his inspiring journey from growing up in the Ramona Gardens housing projects of East Los Angeles to becoming a respected scholar and educator. Tune in to hear how determination, resilience, and a passion for education shaped Jose?s remarkable story.

Before we close out the year, we have one final episode of The Way to College Podcast. In this week's episode, Dr. Susan Saucedo shares her inspiring journey from a tight-knit immigrant community in Los Angeles to becoming a family medicine physician.

Dr. Saucedo opens up about the mentors who shaped her path and her passion for serving underserved communities. Her story is a powerful story of resilience and adaptability.

? Share your thoughts and tag a friend who needs this inspiration!

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I had the privilege of welcoming back Dr. LT Reese Miles, a true advocate for first-generation students. She is now a self-published author of her debut memoir, Smart Girl and she joins me to discuss her book. Don't forget to pre-order her book by clicking on the link below.

https://www.smartgirlbook.com/

Join me as I sit down with Teege Mettille, a first-generation college graduate, podcast co-host of The Admissions Directors Lunchcast, and author of The Admissions Counselor Malaise. Teege shares his inspiring journey, insights into the college admissions process, and practical tips for students and parents navigating application season. Whether you're deep in the college search or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with valuable advice and perspective.

Tune in and share with someone who could use a little guidance this season!
#Podcast #CollegeJourney #AdmissionsAdvice #CollegeApplications #Education

My guests on this special episode of The Way to College Podcast are Dr. Luis Ponjuan and Dr. Victor Saenz. They recently published an article for Diverse Education, Latino Men and the 2024 Election: Implications for Education join me to discuss the article. #education #election2024 #podcast #latinomen #college

https://www.diverseeducation.com/opinion/article/15709609/latino-men-and-the-2024-election-implications-for-education

Happy Monday, friends! Luis Sanchez is my guest on this week's episode of The Way to College Podcast. Luis is Student Services Programs Manager at the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. As a first-generation student, his educational path was anything but smooth. Like many of my guests, he pushed forward and eventually found his way. Join me as we explore Luis' educational and professional journey. Let's go! #podcast #thewaytocollegepodcast #journey #education #scholar #hacu #firstgen #learner #success #latino #sanantonio

In the second part of his interview, this week, we continue to explore Dr. Jorge Moreno's educational and professional journey. Check it out! #thewaytocollegepodcast #journey #exploration #gradschool #hiddencurriculum #impostersyndrome #latino #migrant #doctor #phd #fellowship #immortality

?? This Week on The Way to College Podcast: Dr. Jorge Moreno ? From Migrant Fields to Cutting-Edge Research

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Jorge Moreno shares his remarkable journey from growing up in a migrant farm-working family to becoming a prominent researcher at the Stowers Institute in Kansas City. Dr. Moreno opens up about his early experiences, his academic path from the University of Iowa to earning a PhD from Princeton, and the passion for science that has driven his career. Join us for an insightful conversation on resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of education. #TheWayToCollegePodcast #MigrantToResearcher #LatinoExcellence #LatinxInSTEM #FromFarmToPhD #STEMSuccess #EducationalJourney #InspiringLatinoVoices #ResearcherSpotlight #FirstGenStories #HigherEdSuccess #TrailblazerInScience

#ResilienceAndAchievement

#EducationMatters

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I?m joined by Dr. Noah Rodriguez, a gynecologic oncologist based in California. Dr. Rodriguez's journey from a first-generation student to a specialist in his field is truly inspiring. Tune in to hear his story of perseverance, dedication, and the passion that fuels his work. This is an episode you won?t want to miss! #podcast #waytocollege #journey #latino #firstgen #story #education

On this week's episode of The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Thomas Ray Garcia?author, founder, and Board Chair of the College Scholarship Leadership Access Program (CSLAP).

Thomas, a proud Rio Grande Valley native, has dedicated his career to expanding college access opportunities for students in underserved communities. We first connected through our shared passion for this work in the Rio Grande Valley, and his personal journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Tune in as we dive into Thomas' story, from his roots in the RGV to his impact through CSLAP and beyond. This is an episode you won?t want to miss! #TheWayToCollegePodcast, #CollegeAccess, #HigherEducation, #Scholarships, #CSLAP, #ThomasRayGarcia, #RioGrandeValley, #EducationForAll, #InspiringStories, #FirstGenSuccess, #StudentLeadership, #LatinoLeaders

?? Welcome to the latest episode of The Way to College Podcast! Today, I?m excited to bring you a conversation with Dr. Melba Castro, Vice President of Student Services at Mt. San Antonio College. Dr. Castro and I first crossed paths during our Master?s program at Stanford, where she already stood out as a powerhouse leader. Join me as she shares her incredible journey in education, the insights she?s gained along the way, and what it means to be a Latina in leadership. This is an episode you won?t want to miss! ??
#podcast #educationjourney #latinaleadership #AspenFellow #highereducation

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rafael Almanzar, a Bronx native and the Director of Peer Mentoring and First-Gen Student Success at Texas State University. Like many of my guests, Dr. Almanzar didn?t always envision college in his future. Yet, his path led him to become a passionate advocate for first-generation students, helping them navigate their educational journeys with the same resilience and determination that shaped his own. Tune in as we dive into his inspiring story, from unexpected beginnings to his pivotal role in higher education today. #podcast #podcastepisode #newepisode #podcastlife #firstgensuccess #firstgenstudents #highered #studentsuccess #collegejourney #mentorshipmatters #educationmatters #texasstateuniversity #motivationalmondays

In this week's episode of The Way to College Podcast, I'm joined by Mario A. Guel, a Senior Programs Manager at the Build Healthy Places Network and the Vice-President for Operations for the Texas A&M Hispanic Network. Mario?s inspiring journey began in Laredo, Texas, and has taken him across the country?from the borderlands to Minnesota and back home to Texas. Join us as we explore Mario's educational path and professional experiences, and discover how his story reflects the power of resilience and community. Don?t miss this insightful conversation! #podcast #journey #college #education #texasaggies #hispanic

It's a new week and new episode of The Way to College Podcast. My guest on this week's episode is Anabel Darini, an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Suffolk County Community College. Anabel is a Rio Grande Valley native and as a high school student she aspired to be a math teacher and coach, but like so many of my guests, life would have other plans for her. Let's dive into Anabel's journey. #podcast #journey #college #education #latina #956 #story #utpa #math

On this week's episode of The Way to College Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Jennifer Najera. Dr. Najera is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ethnic Studies at the University of California, Riverside. Join me as we examine Dr. Najera's educational and professional journey and learn about her forthcoming book, Learning to Lead: Undocumented Students Mobilizing Education, from Duke University Press.

Listeners can pre-order the book by clicking on the link below: https://www.dukeupress.edu/learning-to-lead

Imagine you are the 19th child of 21. You have big dreams and aspire to attend college, but no one in your family has ever finished college. This is Paul Lamar Hunter's story, and he is my guest on this week's episode of The Way to College Podcast. Paul is an author and motivational speaker and he was eager to share his journey with my listeners.

And check out his book by clicking on the link below.

www.PaulLamarHunter.com