In this special 100th episode of The College and Career Ready Podcast , I’m reflecting on my journey as a career coach, educator, and podcaster to provide parents with insights on how to support their teens in preparing for their future. From starting as a pharmacy technician to becoming a Career and Technology Education expert, my non-linear path taught me valuable lessons about career guidance, self-discovery, and the power of connections. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help ...
Nov 21, 2024•14 min
In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, I dive into a topic that’s close to my heart: how parents can best support their children as they transition from high school to college and beyond. I’ll talk about the power of self-discovery and why it’s so crucial for students to truly understand their strengths, values, and interests before taking that next big step. I also share my own career journey, including the twists and turns of my non-linear path, to show that there isn’t one “...
Nov 11, 2024•19 min
What if the first step in your career could open doors you never imagined? Join me, as I share my journey from being a first-generation college graduate to becoming a certified pharmacy technician, to an educator and now as your Career Coach and holding a Master of Science Degree. This episode celebrates National Pharmacy Technician Day by honoring the crucial role of pharmacy technicians in healthcare and beyond. I recount my experiences at San Jacinto College, where I faced the challenges of n...
Oct 16, 2024•18 min
Harnessing Alumni Networks: A Journey from Campus to Career In this episode of 'College and Career Ready,' host Sonia Cacique introduces Quincey Hettinger as they continue the conversation. Together they explore her experiences as a student at Brigham Young University. Quincey shares how involvement in the Student Alumni Association shaped her college experience, provided leadership opportunities, and helped build meaningful connections that furthered her career. The discussion emphasizes the im...
Oct 07, 2024•17 min
Navigating College and Careers: Insights from Quincey Hettinger In this episode of College and Career Ready, host Sonia Cacique interviews Quincey, a resilient individual who successfully transitioned from high school to college and then into a fulfilling career at PepsiCo. Quincey shares her journey from entering college undecided and utilizing resources such as clubs, career development classes, and real-world networking to find her career path. She discusses the importance of exploring intere...
Oct 03, 2024•32 min
In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, host Sonia Cacique welcomes Khalil Vinson, the founder and CEO of TechFest Live. Khalil shares his mission to bridge the technology gap for black and brown students through TechFest Live, an ed-tech nonprofit organization. They discuss the importance of identifying student interests, the impact of imposter syndrome, and the broad opportunities technology offers across various industries. Khalil also provides insights into the upcoming Tech...
Sep 30, 2024•37 min
In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, we sit down with Sophia, a high school senior from Turner College and Career High School in Pearland, TX. Sophia shares her inspiring journey of discovering her passion in STEM during her junior year. Like many students, Sophia wasn’t always sure what she wanted to pursue, despite trying various activities like sports, arts, and writing. It wasn’t until she took a CAD course at Alvin Community College that she found her true calling in eng...
Sep 04, 2024•24 min
Embrace a Fresh Start: Top 3 Tips for Your New School Year! In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, host Sonia Cacique, shares invaluable insights to help students make a successful transition into the new school year. Sonia discusses the top three focus areas that can enhance your academic and personal growth. Don't miss out on this chance to start a fresh new school year and make meaningful strides in your educational journey. Tune in for actionable advice and inspiring tips t...
Aug 28, 2024•16 min
Unlocking College Success: Expert Tips on Choosing the Right College In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, Coach Sonia spoke with her special guest Michelle McAnaney, founder and lead independent educational consultant of the College Spy. Michelle shares invaluable insights on the college selection process, discussing factors such as return on investment, understanding various college cultures, and the importance of finding a school that fits a student's unique needs. She emph...
Aug 07, 2024•39 min
In this episode, we dive into the critical question of how to determine if the career or degree program you’ve selected is truly the right fit for you. This discussion is essential for high school students, college students, and recent graduates who may have doubts about their chosen paths. The episode provides thought-provoking exercises to help listeners critically evaluate their career choices and motivations. Tune in for valuable insights and strategies to ensure your career aligns with your...
Aug 02, 2024•21 min
The Power of Connections in Career Success In this episode of 'College and Career Ready,' host Sonia Cacique emphasizes the importance of building connections for high school and college students. Sonia, a former educator and now a career coach, shares her personal journey and how connections with mentors and professionals influenced her career growth. She offers practical advice on networking, gaining career clarity and even finding hidden scholarship opportunities for students. After this epis...
Jul 24, 2024•20 min
In this episode, Coach Sonia explores the emotional rollercoaster that comes with starting a new school year or trying something new. Also, don't miss out on the announcement of a full tuition scholarship for STEM students at Houston Christian University. Join us for valuable insights and encouragement to embrace new challenges with confidence. 00:00 Introduction: Embracing New Beginnings 01:27 Personal Experience: Hosting My First Event 03:57 Facing Fears: The Journey to Overcome Anxiety 06:43 ...
Jul 17, 2024•14 min
Maximizing Your College Experience: Career Insights with Reena Friedman Watts In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, Coach Sonia welcomes Reena Friedman Watts, host of the Better Call Daddy podcast. Reena shares her inspiring journey from college radio to working on shows like the Jerry Springer Show and Nanny 911, and transitioning into marketing and podcasting. They discuss building meaningful connections, exploring career paths, and leveraging life experiences to achieve car...
Jul 10, 2024•42 min
Building Connections: Connor's Journey from College to a Career in Sports In this episode of the College and Career Ready Podcast, Coach Sonia welcomes Connor Potkonjak, a fourth-year commerce and international business student at the University of Victoria, British Columbia. Connor shares his process of building crucial connections within the sports industry, including how a LinkedIn cold message inspired by the College and Career Ready Podcast led him to a meaningful info session with Yvette Y...
Jul 03, 2024•24 min
The Power of Connections: Anthony Newton's Journey from Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader In this podcast episode, Sonia interviews Anthony Newton, CEO and founder of Kaduceus Holdings, about his inspiring career journey. Anthony shares his inspirational journey from his early days in Houston, through a pivotal mentorship by his high school teacher Ms. Betty Brown, to becoming a leader in educational and medical training. He discusses how his diverse experiences and exposure to different face...
Jun 26, 2024•36 min
In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, Sonia interviews Amelia Sofjan, a passionate educator and recent founder of Masterpiece an Acton Academy. Amelia shares her inspiring journey from immigrating to the U.S. at age 11, discovering her passion for teaching and chemistry, to pursuing a dream career in pharmacy education. She discusses her innovative approach to teaching, emphasizing the importance of character development, freedom, and responsibility in learning. Amelia reveals...
Jun 19, 2024•33 min
In this episode, Coach Sonia discusses what colleges and universities seek beyond GPA and class rank in college applications. She reflects on her experience at the QuestBridge College Launch event with admission representatives from top colleges such as Bowdin, Dartmouth, Pomona College, and Rice University. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in the college admissions process, advising students to highlight their struggles, personal growth, and unique stories in their application essa...
Jun 11, 2024•15 min
Do you wonder why so many adults are pivoting careers? Are you wondering why this trend is happening in the workplace today? Listen in to this week as Sonia interviews Bryan Hill, a former teacher turned business owner who discusses the importance of students identifying their purpose or 'why.' Together they explore how understanding one's passions and motivations can guide career and college choices. Bryan shares his background and experiences, emphasizing the significance of human connections,...
Jun 04, 2024•32 min
Ready to prepare your teens for college? Tune in to our latest episode with licensed professional counselor Lauren Wolfe as she shares invaluable tips for helping your adolescents transition smoothly to college life. In this episode of the College and Career Ready podcast, we have as a guest a licensed professional counselor Lauren Wolfe. Lauren, who has over 20 years of experience supporting children, teens, and families, discusses key strategies for preparing adolescents for the transition fro...
May 28, 2024•40 min
Unlock Your Adolescent's Potential: Essential Tips for a Transformative Summer Break How you can help your adolescent maximize their summer break? By building character and developing essential skills. Whether you're a parent or an adolescent yourself, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice to ensure a productive and enriching summer. Episode Highlights: Discuss Summer Planning Internships and Job Opportunities Summer Classes and Workshops Volunteering Skill Developme...
May 21, 2024•20 min
Today we feature an engaging conversation with Shia and Kennedy, young podcasters of the 'Ben show podcast,' exploring their journey into podcasting, their first live podcast experience, and insights into networking and career exploration. They share their initial inspiration received from a business teacher's flyer, leading to their application and eventual selection for the podcast project. Additionally, the discussion touches on their live podcasting experience at OTC in Houston, Texas, empha...
May 15, 2024•25 min
Today we will explore the importance of a portfolio. We will discuss: What is a portfolio How to create a portfolio for college and career readiness Examples of what to include in a portfolio for high school and college students Benefits of having a portfolio during interviews and applications Tips on strategically creating a compelling portfolio narrative Resources available for portfolio creation Importance of self-reflection and growth through portfolio development How a portfolio can help du...
May 07, 2024•12 min
Today I will unlock the true potential of letters of recommendation and their game-changing impact on students' lives. Discover how these powerful narratives, starting from 9th grade, offer a vivid portrayal of a young person's character and achievements, transcending the limitations of resumes and academic transcripts. In this special episode, I guide you through the strategic collection and utilization of these letters, ensuring that when the time comes, students are equipped with a compelling...
Apr 30, 2024•14 min
In today's episode we will be exploring the power of words in shaping adolescents' academic and overall performance, and how parents can positively influence their children's self-talk and behavior through affirmations and positivity. A students' performance is linked to their self-reflection and today we will explore how you as a parent can positively influence your adolescent's academic and overall performance by using uplifting words and affirmations. We highlight the importance of retraining...
Apr 24, 2024•16 min
Dr. Shaan Patel, MD, MBA is founder and CEO of Prep Expert. As seen on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” Prep Expert is a leading education company that has helped more than 100,000 students improve their SAT and ACT scores, get into top colleges, and win over $100 million in scholarships. Dr. Patel raised his own SAT score from average to perfect, has 20+ years experience with SAT prep, and has authored 15+ test prep books. A board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Patel was named one of Inc. Magazine’s “30 Under...
Apr 16, 2024•37 min
In today's bonus episode, we dive into strategies and opportunities to unveil hidden scholarships. We explore tips on finding scholarships within your community and highlight a scholarship opportunity for travel credit or vouchers. Stay tuned till the end for all the details! Episode Mentioned: 52. Maximizing Financial Aid: FAFSA Updates, Scholarship Strategies, and Money-Saving Tips w/the College Funding Queen Scholarship mentioned: Lanzate Travel Awards Program - Hispanic Association of Colleg...
Apr 12, 2024•9 min
Join us to learn more about Texas A&M Engineering Academy program with our guest Eddie Alvarado, an inspiring alum and admissions advisor. We unlock the secrets of this innovative initiative, blending the intimate learning environments of community colleges with the prestigious engineering degree from Texas A&M. Find out how this program not only lightens the financial load but also paves the way for academic success, providing students with smaller classes, lower costs, and a cohort mod...
Apr 09, 2024•40 min
When Omuhle Ndhlovu stepped onto the campus of Bucknell University, she carried with her more than just textbooks; she brought a vision for change that stretched all the way from Zimbabwe to the heart of higher education. Our latest episode shines a spotlight on this vivacious chemical engineering and business management student, as she regales her journey, a testament to the power of meshing personal passion with academic rigor, a narrative that's sure to resonate with anyone looking to carve o...
Apr 02, 2024•43 min
This week, dive into an enlightening conversation with Bernadina Gonzales Streeter from the University of Houston Clear Lake, as we uncover the life-changing impact of experiential learning. Gain exclusive insights into how colleges are offering more than higher education with greater opportunities for our next generation of college graduates. We delve into: -The art of crafting these practical experiences to align seamlessly with student majors -Strategies for students to navigate their future ...
Mar 26, 2024•51 min
Bonus Episode Scholarship Opportunity Café Bustelo El Café Del Futuro Scholarship applicants must meet the following scholarship criteria to qualify: Open to ALL majors Must be attending a 4-year HACU Member institution Open to Undergraduate and Graduate students Must be enrolled Full-time Must be of Hispanic or Latinx descent? (Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture/origin). Deadline: June 30, 2024 Apply Today Send us a text DiscoverU Career and Leader...
Mar 23, 2024•3 min
