The TecoGuide Podcast

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

"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 led her to enroll at Sacramento City College. There, she found supportive professors, relatable counselors, and other students who looked like her. That made all the difference.
She eventually transferred to UC Berkeley, then earned her master's in counseling at SF State. Today, she’s a professor and counselor using her story to inspire others.
Counselor Alejandra’s story is a reminder that first-gen students are not alone and that potential doesn’t always come with a clear map. Sometimes, it starts with surviving. But it grows when you give yourself permission to hope, to explore, and to believe that you belong in higher education.
No one else will say yes for you. You have to do that part yourself.
#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
#HigherEd #CollegeAccess #EdEquity #EducationalLeadership #StudentSuccess #CommunityCollege #TransferSuccess #FirstGenerationStudents #TecoGuide

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

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 which ones and how you qualify in this episode of the #TecoGuide podcast with Counselor Liz. Your dream school might just be a TAG away.
When and How to Apply for TAG? September may feel far away, but for fall transfers, it’s your deadline for the TAG application. Learn how timing, coursework, and GPA all play a role in securing your spot. 
Demystifying the UC TAG Matrix! What’s the UC TAG matrix, and why should it be your best friend if you're planning to transfer?
Not All Majors Qualify for TAG Surprised? Some majors are excluded from the TAG program. Don’t get caught off guard, find out how to check if your major is eligible and what your options are if it isn’t. 
The TAG process can be straightforward with the right guidance. Utilize the UC TAG Matrix, communicate with your college counselor, and plan your courses carefully. With proper preparation, you can position yourself to take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to secure a spot at a UC campus.
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame
 

CSU Secrets: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Major

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 undergraduate programs, 40 graduate programs, and 2 doctoral programs. The list of available majors and even the names of similar programs can vary from one campus to another.
Before applying, research your top 3 majors and verify program availability. Failing to do this research can lead to complications. You might find out that the major you want is not offered at university. In such cases, students must broaden their perspective and consider programs that may not match their ideal title but can still lead to the same career.
Before applying to any campus, confirm that the school offers a program closely aligned with your career goals. This preparation can save you from unexpected setbacks after enrollment. Another essential factor to consider is whether your intended major is impacted.
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame

The Transfer Trap

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 build TecoGuide to “disrupt” education. We built it to fix what’s broken: the outdated and confusing systems that stop millions of students, especially students of color, from reaching their potential.
We’re not just another app, we’re a movement. #TecoGuide is committed to reforming how students experience the largest system of higher education in the United States: the California Community Colleges.
If you're passionate about transforming education and want to help accelerate this change, we invite you to partner with us.
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame

From Campus to Career: The TecoGuide Transfer Blueprint

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 affordable choice.
Complete 60 units (about 20 courses)
Transfer as a junior
Finish your bachelor's with significantly less debt
Professor G explains how to maximize your college journey.
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame

Guaranteed UC Admission? Here's How.

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 decisions help students plan ahead.
Customized Guidance: Receive targeted advice on major preparation and general education coursework.
It’s important to note that TAG is limited to one campus, and not all majors at each UC campus are available under TAG. Applicants should consult campus-specific guidelines before applying.
How to Apply for TAG
Students must use the UC Transfer Admission Planner (TAP) to complete and submit their TAG application. Key steps include:
Complete the TAG application in TAP.
Review the application with a community college counselor or UC TAG advisor.
Submit the application during the designated submission window:
Fall term: September 1–30 (subject to change)
Winter/Spring term: May 1–31 (subject to change)
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame

Crack the UC Transfer Code

#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 story. Don’t miss this breakdown!
To answer effectively, consider:
1 Focus on your major interest2 Share experience beyond the classroom3 Be personal, not generic4 Don’t just list problems, show growth
Let your unique voice and story shine through, this is your chance to connect with the UC admissions team on a deeper level.
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame
 

Crush College: Strategies That Work

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 reinforce key concepts.
Commit to office hours—professors appreciate engaged students!
Practice makes progress—revisit mistakes, especially in math and science.
Break up study sessions—consistency over time is key.
Know your learning style—visual, auditory, or kinesthetic? Adapt your approach!
At the end of the term, reflect: What did I do well? What do I need to improve? and What should I start or stop doing?
Your success depends on your habits, mindset, and consistency. Stay committed, and you’ll see progress!
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame

College Accommodations: Get the Support You Deserve

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 can help set up accommodations that make learning more accessible and manageable.
Even if you weren’t diagnosed as a child, it’s never too late to advocate for yourself. Push for the testing you need, explore campus resources, and don’t let unnecessary obstacles stand in your way. You deserve an education that works for you!
Not all academic struggles come from a learning disability. Sometimes, anxiety, depression, or stress can make focusing and studying incredibly difficult. The good news? Many colleges offer free or low-cost therapy and counseling services as part of student tuition.
If school feels overwhelming, reach out. Your campus may have mental health resources designed to help students cope with stress, anxiety, and other challenges. There’s no shame in seeking help, it’s a sign of strength and self-care.
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame

Debt or Degree? Making Smart College Choices

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 (food assistance for students).
Housing scholarships may be available at your school!
Explore Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), your loans could be forgiven after 10 years of service.
Don’t let finances hold you back from your future. Invest in yourself today!
#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
#HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CareerPathways #inspirame