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© Jose L. Saldivar
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The Way to College Podcast examines the multiple roads we take to get to college and beyond. Guests share their individual stories of success, failure, and what they did to push forward to find success.
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In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Mya Andersen, independent academic life coach and founder of The Student Empowered, to break down the hidden curriculum of college, or the stuff students aren’t explicitly taught, but are still expected to master.Mya has spent 20+ years working on campuses and saw the same pattern again and again: support is often passive, and schools intervene only when there’s a crisis. But when the conversation starts at crisis-level, the focus becomes the problem, not the student.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why being “college capable” isn’t the same as being “college ready.”How to use office hours like a doctor’s appointment (and build real relationships with professors)Why college is a big-ticket purchase… and what it looks like to protect your ROIWhen students should start using career services (hint: earlier than most people think)For parents: share the real version of your college experienceIf you’re a student, parent, educator, or advisor who’s ever thought, “Why didn’t anyone tell me this?” this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now, then share this episode with one student (or one parent) who needs to hear this conversation. And if you're interested in learning more about The Student Empowered and Mya's services, you can find her here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myaandersen1928/Website: https://thestudentempowered.com/Instagram: @the_student_empowered
This week on The Way to College Podcast, I’m joined by Jeannie Salinas, founder of Book-E Bus, the Rio Grande Valley’s first mobile bookstore.Jeannie’s story is a masterclass in pivoting with purpose: from earning her business degree at The University of Texas-Pan American, working in retail, helping run her family’s insurance business, and eventually turning a lifelong love of books into a full-on community experience on wheels.In this episode, we talk about:How she turned a side hustle into a real businessThe mindset shift from “I’m stuck” to “I’m building”Why experience + community matterMentorship, budgeting, and learning the “hidden rules” of college and careersWhat it takes to bet on yourself without losing yourselfIf you’re a student, parent, educator, or entrepreneur—this one will light a fire.The Book-E bus will be in Weslaco on February 28th. Follow the Book-E bus on Instagram: @thebookebus
1This episode is the reminder you didn’t know you needed.Dr. Jose L. Saldivar sits down with Behdad Jamshidi, a former engineer who became a marketing connector, helping businesses avoid costly mistakes by pairing them with the right marketing partners. He’s spoken with 1,100+ agencies/experts, and what he learned applies way beyond marketing: your career grows at the speed of your relationships.If you’re a student, early-career professional, or someone trying to pivot… this one’s for you.✅ In this episode, we talk about:Why the people skills you ignore become the skills that pay youHow Behdad moved up—not by being the “smartest,” but by being the most effective communicatorThe simple way to find mentors (without being awkward)What to do when you feel stuck: action creates clarityThe truth about fear: it doesn’t disappear—you get stronger🔥 Quick challenge after you listen:Message one person you respect today and ask: “What’s one move you’d make if you were me?”Then actually do it.🎧 Hit play, and if one moment resonates—share this episode with a friend who needs that push.Connect with Behdad:CJAM Marketing Connector: https://cjammarketing.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/behdadjamshidi/https://www.facebook.com/beeee.jamhttps://www.instagram.com/behdadjamshidi_/https://www.instagram.com/themarketingconnector_/
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 othersThe difference between support, resources… and permissionA practical way to take your next step even when you’re unsureJillian 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 lifeWhat to avoid with “easy” scholarships and inbox-filling trapsHow to build reusable materials (essays, stories, lists) so you’re not starting from scratch every timeThe 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/waytocollegeIf 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 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 pathEvan’s perspective on preparing for the college journeyWhy traditional college tours often fall shortThe story behind Quadzio and its fast-growing network of ambassadorsWhether 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 curiosityWhy small colleges can be the right fit for introvertsLessons learned from leaving the classroomOvercoming imposter syndrome when working with world-class expertsThe 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 journeyWhy it’s okay to not have “just one” purpose or career pathHow SchoolPulse is redefining student mental fitnessPractical 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.comListen 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 whereWhether 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 #storySmart 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 motherNavigating imposter syndrome and academic probation in collegeHow getting involved transformed his college experienceThe unexpected career path that led him to Washington, D.C.His advice for first-year students and those applying to college nowWhether 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 planBreaking into media without a journalism degreeLessons from poker that apply to life and workHow she built a brand around analysis and storytellingThe power of leaning into what brings you joyPamela’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 StreetThe role of privilege and perspective in college accessHow Loper personalizes the college discovery processAdvice 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.
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 LawWhy dual credit courses in high school can shape your future more than you thinkWhat it means to take smart risks—even when you don’t have it all figured outHis path from law school to teaching at Harvard and leading VC dealsThe 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!
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I really liked this and thought it was helpful for anyone going through college. The tips given are useful, easy to understand, and motivating, especially for students looking to make better choices in school. I would suggest this resource along with advice from an https://www.essaywriter.ie/ when you need clear guidance and real-life advice.