In this episode, Matt and Olga sit down with Dr. Amanda Wilcox-Herzog, Professor and Chair of the Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies department at CSUSB. Dr. Wilcox-Herzog shares her journey from classrooms to higher education leadership and sheds light on what makes the BA in Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies a dynamic, hands-on, and career-launching experience. Tune in to find out why the CAFS major might just be the perfect fit for you! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple,...
Aug 07, 2025•21 min•Season 1Ep. 112
In Ep. 111 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, hosts Matt Markin and Olga Valdivia welcome Pedro Saltipar, Academic Advisor at the Palm Desert Campus (PDC) of Cal State San Bernardino. Tune in as Pedro paints a vivid picture of the close-knit PDC community, from its unique student support model and vibrant S3 Studio to standout academic programs. Learn how PDC blends personalized advising, easy access to resources, and small-class intimacy into an unforgettable college experience. Whether you’re cons...
Jul 28, 2025•19 min•Season 1Ep. 111
In this episode, Advisor Olga and Advisor Matt focus on tips for incoming first-year students for the fall 2025 semester. Key points include the importance of understanding the difference between high school and college, utilizing academic advising, adjusting class schedules, and the significance of campus resources. We also highlight the importance of self-care, checking campus email regularly, and preparing for campus employment. Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and m...
Jun 25, 2025•22 min•Season 1Ep. 110
In Ep. 109, Olga Valdivia speaks with returning guest, Dr. Fadi Muheidat from CSUSB's School of Computer Science & Engineering. Dr. Muheidat breaks down the various majors you can choose from: Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Systems, and Bioinformatics. Dr. Muheidat clears up common myths about computer science, talks about the programming languages you’ll need to know, and highlights the many resources available to support you such as scholarships, tutoring, and mentoring. ...
Jun 02, 2025•30 min•Season 1Ep. 109
What happens when your GPA dips below 2.0 at CSUSB? In this episode, Matt Markin and Ed Mendoza break down Academic Notice —not as punishment, but as a support system designed to help students bounce back. They explore common causes like time management and personal challenges, and share how students can use advising, goal-setting, and even community college courses to get back on track. Plus, learn the key differences between Academic Notice and SAP—and why asking for help early is the smartest...
May 27, 2025•21 min•Season 1Ep. 108
In Ep. 107 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Craig Seal to discuss the new Master of Science in Human Resource Management. This program is AACSB accredited and consists of 30 units over two years, with five core classes and flexible electives. It targets a wide range of individuals such as professionals already in the industry, those interested in starting their own company or consulting, and individuals looking for career advancement opportunities. Interested in applying? Appl...
May 20, 2025•12 min•Season 1Ep. 107
Join Matt and Olga as Dr. Justine D'Arrigo shares exciting information about the minor in Counseling and Social Change! With just 18 units—four core classes and two electives—this program empowers students to drive social transformation through meaningful relationships. From exploring the roots of psychology to building empathy and understanding systems of oppression, the minor offers something for everyone. Dr. D'Arrigo breaks down why this program is a game-changer for students in any field, a...
May 14, 2025•25 min•Season 1Ep. 106
🎙️ In this episode of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin and Olga Valdivia dive into the bold rollout of ChatGPT Edu across campus by interviewing Dr. Fadi Muheidat , Associate Professor and Director of the Teaching Resource Center! Dr. Muheidat breaks down how this AI tool is now seamlessly integrated into the MyCoyote portal , offering secure, student-friendly access. Discover how you as a student can critically evaluate responses from ChatGPT, possible uses depending on class assignment...
May 04, 2025•35 min•Season 1Ep. 105
Finals week is coming — but don’t stress, you’ve got this! In this episode of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin and Olga Valdivia share real talk on how to manage finals week like a pro. We break down simple, yet effective strategies, making a study schedule you can actually follow, and using AI tools (hello, flashcards and quizzes!) to level up your prep. We also remind you why taking care of yourself — getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and moving your body — is key to staying sharp...
Apr 27, 2025•23 min•Season 1Ep. 104
Join host Matt Markin and director Ed Mendoza on the CSUSB Advising Podcast as they dive into real student experiences with guests Anita and Anaya, two inspiring student assistants. Anita, an anthropology major, opens up about her journey from the medical track to discovering a passion for people and cultures. Anaya, a kinesiology major, shares how her athletic roots shaped her academic path. From time management tips to campus resource hacks—like tutoring, advising, and the Den food pantry—this...
Apr 16, 2025•46 min•Season 1Ep. 103
In Ep. 102 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, host Matt Markin sits down with Dr. Daniel MacDonald, Professor and Chair of the Economics Department at CSUSB, to explore the hot topic of AI in education. 🤖📚 Dr. MacDonald breaks down what generative AI really is, how it’s changing the academic landscape, and why it’s crucial for students to understand the fine line between using AI as a tool and crossing into plagiarism territory. He offers practical tips for students on how to navigate AI responsib...
Apr 06, 2025•25 min•Season 1Ep. 102
Thinking about taking classes this summer at CSUSB? In this episode, Academic Advisor Matt Markin chats with Jonathan Rangel, Program Coordinator for Summer Sessions, to break down everything you need to know for Summer 2025. Jonathan covers key dates, class options, how many units you can take, and what kind of financial aid is available. Whether you're looking to catch up, get ahead, or just stay on track, summer is a great time to make moves. You'll also hear about the Early Summer Starter Pr...
Apr 01, 2025•12 min•Season 1Ep. 101
Celebrating 100 episodes of the CSUSB Advising Podcast! Academic advisor Matt Markin and Director of academic advising Eduardo Mendoza discuss AI's role in education. They explore Google NotebookLM, an AI tool for organizing and summarizing notes. They analyze Reddit threads from CSUSB students on study spots and academic challenges, highlighting the importance of community support and time management. Matt and Eduardo use ChatGPT to provide insights on NotebookLM's features and ethical consider...
Mar 21, 2025•35 min•Season 1Ep. 100
In Ep. 99, academic advisor Matt Markin chats with Michael Casadonte, the director of digital transformation at CSUSB. Michael discusses CSUSB's chatbot, Ask Cody, which uses generative AI technology in its responses. What are the benefits to students? Can Ask Cody handle questions about campus resources, processes, and important dates? Are the answers accurate? Find out here! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more! Follow us on social media: Instagram - @csusbadvisi...
Mar 12, 2025•22 min•Season 1Ep. 99
In Ep. 98 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin interviews Professor Alison Ragguette about the MA in Art and MFA in Studio Art graduate programs. Learn more about the application process, building your portfolio, the differences and career options within each program and tips for writing your statement of purpose! Find more information on the CSUSB Department of Art & Design website ! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more! Follow us on social media: Instag...
Feb 14, 2025•18 min•Season 1Ep. 98
If artificial intelligence is here to stay, how can it best be utilized in college and still address ethical concerns of how AI platforms are used? In Ep. 97 of the CSUSB Advising podcast, academic advisor Matt Markin has a conversation with ChatGPT's voice mode on its insights on what being successful in college looks like, how to study for your different classes such as math vs history, how AI is a supplemental tool, the accuracy of AI, and even its motivational message to you as a CSUSB stude...
Jan 03, 2025•16 min•Season 1Ep. 97
What is the Office of Black Student Success? In Ep. 96 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, ASUA academic advisors' Matt Markin and Tracee McCreary chat with the Director of the Office of Black Student Success, Dr. Brandon E. Gamble and Program Coordinator Ebenezer Ezenwa about how their office is a resource to you as a CSUSB student! Instagram: @obss_csusb Website: https://www.csusb.edu/office-black-student-success Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more! Follow us on soci...
Nov 25, 2024•22 min•Season 1Ep. 96
In Episode 95 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, academic advisor Matt Markin chats with Veronica Martinelli, Senior Program Specialist at CSUSB about everything you should know about Winter Intersession 2025! How many units can you take? Is financial aid available? When do you register? Find out in this episode! For more information, check out the CSUSB Winter Intersession website, https://www.csusb.edu/winter-intersession E-mail: winterintersession@csusb.edu Phone: (909) 537-3978 Instagram: csusbw...
Oct 24, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 95
Are you in the right major? Want an easy way to explore majors and career options? In Ep. 94, Matt Markin chats with Career Counselors/Advisors Sarai Maldonado and Lauren Williams from the Career Center about FOCUS 2, a reliable, intuitive career and education decision-making model to help you select a major, explore occupations, make informed career decisions, and take action in your career development. Take the FOCUS 2 assessments ! Visit the Career Center website ! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advi...
Sep 13, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 94
Did you know CSUSB has a neurodiversity space called The Cog? In Ep. 93 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin chats with Dr. J. Chad Sweeney about what benefits The Cog offers to students, what neurodiversity is, and how to support and contribute to this innovative space! Check out The Cognitive Collective website ! For questions, contact Dr. Sweeney at chadsw@csusb.edu. Stop by The Cog in University Hall, Rm 401.02! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more! Follo...
Aug 27, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 93
In Episode 92 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin chats with Dr. Ken Shultz, department chair of Psychology! Dr. Shultz discusses graduate programs within Psychology, including the M.A. in Psychological Science , M.S. in Industrial/Organizational , and M.S. in Clinical/Counseling . Learn about the differences between these programs, the admissions process, career options, and more! Check out Psychology Graduate Programs website ! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, ...
Aug 05, 2024•23 min•Season 1Ep. 92
This fall 2024 semester, CSUSB is piloting the Coyote Day One Textbook Access program! The program is "digital first," meaning that each student will be provided all their textbooks and other instructional materials in digital format unless they are not available or unless the instructor of that class section requests hard copy materials. What are the benefits to students? When will you receive access to your textbooks? How much does it cost? Find out here with special guest, Dr. Bradford Owen, ...
Jul 23, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 91
Are you an incoming transfer student to CSUSB? If so, this episode is made specifically for you! You attended your new student transfer orientation, but do you remember everything? Do you know what happens next? Do you know the upcoming important dates? Do you want tips for success? Well, this episode helps prepare you for starting at CSUSB! Join special guests Megan Huston Orientation and First Year Experience and Brittiny Dennis from the ASUA Academic Advising Office! Subscribe to the CSUSB Ad...
Jul 08, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 90
Yotes! Did you know part of your student fees goes to Associated Students, Incorporated (ASI)? Do you know what ASI does with your fees? Do you know the services offered by ASI? Do you know how to become more involved on campus through ASI? Find out here with our special guest, Carson Fajardo , student and your ASI President! Check out the CSUSB ASI website ! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more! Follow us on social media: Instagram - @csusbadvising Tik Tok - @csus...
Jun 13, 2024•28 min•Season 1Ep. 89
Are you a new first year student at CSUSB? If so, this episode is made specifically for you! You attended your orientation, but do you remember everything? Do you know what happens next? Well, we have a special episode to help prepare you for your first semester at CSUSB! Join Megan Huston from Orientation and First Year Experience, as well as Brittiny Dennis and Meghan McGarry from the ASUA Academic Advising Office as they recap orientation, share important dates and tips for making a successfu...
Jun 03, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 88
With our incoming first year CSUSB Yotes attending new student orientation, do you as a parent or family member know what your student should have learned or what happens next? Join academic advisor Matt Markin as he chats with the experts, Maria Domingo from Orientation and First Year Experience and Ellie Gault from the ASUA Academic Advising Office! Maria and Ellie recap orientation, answer questions about pack enrollment, changing classes, important dates, and more! Subscribe to the CSUSB Adv...
May 31, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 87
In Episode 86 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin chats with Dr. Yolonda Youngs, associate professor within the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies! Dr. Youngs discusses both the Bachelor of Arts in Geography and the Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies , career options, what students are learning in their classes, and more! Check out the Department of Geography & Environmental Studies website ! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more! Fo...
May 05, 2024•23 min•Season 1Ep. 86
In Episode 85 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin chats with Dr. Corey Dunn, professor and graduate coordinator of the Master of Arts in Mathematics! Dr. Dunn discusses the the application process, graduate level coursework, potential career pathways, and more! Have questions about the MA in Math? Check out the Master of Arts in Mathematics website or e-mail Dr. Dunn (cmdunn@csusb.edu). Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more! Follow us on social media: Instagr...
Apr 24, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 85
In Episode 84 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin chats with Dr. Nicole Dabbs, professor and department chair of Kinesiology about the new Health Promotion concentration within the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. Learn about what students are learning within Health Promotion, what types of career fields students can go into, resources available, and more! Check out the Kinesiology Health Promotion concentration website! Subscribe to the CSUSB Advising Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and mo...
Apr 16, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 84
In Episode 83 of the CSUSB Advising Podcast, Matt Markin is joined by fellow academic advisor, John Noriega to chat with Dr. Christine Famega, Professor and Interim Director of the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at CSUSB! Dr. Famega discusses both the B.A. in Criminal Justice and the B.S. in Intelligence and Crime Analysis. What are the differences? What are the career options? What are you learning in your classes. Find out answers to all of these questions and more! Check out the S...
Apr 08, 2024•15 min•Season 1Ep. 83
