College and Career Ready | Transition from High School to College

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, emphasizing the learning curve and the importance of unedited, real-time communication. Shia and Kennedy also dive into their previous interests and how these experiences broadened their career perspectives, emphasizing entrepreneurship, marketing, and exploring the oil and gas industry. We discuss from our young people's perspective:evolution of their networking skillsthe significance of communicationsharing practical advice on making connectionsLastly, the episode encapsulates their experiences with engaging in conversations, handling business cards, and the transformative impact of stepping out of their comfort zones.To connect with our guest and sponsor: https://wingsenergy.travel/https://oggn.com/ben/Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Today we will explore the importance of a portfolio. We will discuss:What is a portfolioHow to create a portfolio for college and career readinessExamples of what to include in a portfolio for high school and college studentsBenefits of having a portfolio during interviews and applications Tips on strategically creating a compelling portfolio narrativeResources available for portfolio creationImportance of self-reflection and growth through portfolio developmentHow a portfolio can help during interviews and showcase accomplishments and your success journeyReminder to start building a portfolio early on for college application, internships and job interviewsEpisodes Mentioned:Episode #78: Timely Episode: The Importance of Letters of RecommendationAnd if you have any questions along the way, reach out to me on LinkedIn and Instagram.Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

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 portfolio that truly makes them shine.We will discuss:The importance of letters of recommendation for students in high school and college. The value of creating a portfolio with letters of recommendation to showcase students' character and achievements. Tips for students on how to ask for letters of recommendation.The importance of maintaining communication with teachers or professors throughout the process.I'm sending out waves of appreciation to you, my cherished listeners, for allowing me to be a part of your day. Let's carry forward the wisdom gleaned from today's discussion—spread the word, hit share, or post it on your social feed. Follow me on Intagram or my favorite social media spot, LinkedIn. Here's to nurturing our connections and evolving together towards college and career readiness. Join us next week for another insightful encounter that will continue to redefine our path to success.Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

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 the brain through positive reinforcement.In this module we will discuss: Neuroscientific Research Parental Influence Positive AffirmationsAdolescents' Self-Worth Adolescents' IdentityInterested in our Signature Self Discovery To Your Ideal Career Path with Group Coaching.  DM the word 'waitlist' on LinkedIn, Instagram or via email at info@collegecareerready.orgSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

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 30.” Imagine a world where the daunting SAT becomes your ally, opening gates to financial freedom through scholarships and a less stressful college application process. We will explore:How to ace the new Digital SATHow to secure $100,000+ college scholarshipsHow test prep prepares your student for their career and beyond!That's what we explore in this episode with PrepExpert's CEO, as he details the structured methodology of a top-notch live online test prep course that goes beyond the classroom. Test prep is more than just about the score; it's about setting the stage for a thriving college experience and a career that soars.Learn more about Prep Expert: https://prepexpert.comConnect with Dr. Patel:https://www.facebook.com/prepexpert/https://www.instagram.com/prep_expert/?hl=enhttps://www.tiktok.com/@prep_experthttps://twitter.com/Prep_Experthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-expertSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

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 Colleges and Universities (hacu.net)Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

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 model that fosters a collaborative community among future engineers.In this episode we discuss: Seamless TransitionDiscover how the program ensures a smooth transition from community college to university, integrating students into the Texas A&M culture and curriculum.Eddie Alvarado walks us through the entry-to-major process, highlighting early exposure to engineering specialties.Advantages and InsightsUnderstand how the program prepares students for success in the field.Admissions ProcessExplore the holistic approach to evaluating candidates, with a focus on diversity and potential.As we conclude our conversation with Eddie, we emphasize how the Texas A&M Engineering Academy extends opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds.Discover how this program offers a high-quality education, and a supportive community, making your dream of pursuing engineering a reality.Learn more about this program and to connect with Eddie:https://engineering.tamu.edu/academics/academies/index.htmlhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiealvarado19/Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

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 out a meaningful path in the world.In this episode we discuss:The role that extracurricular activities play in shaping the college experience.Transformative encounters—from conferences like the American Institute of Chemical Engineers in Florida to vital campus networks like the National Society of Black Engineers—offering a firsthand look at how building bridges can lead to uncharted territories in both personal and professional growth.Strategies gleaned from the trenches of time management and the trenches of seeking help when the going gets tough. The importance of creating support systems, embracing the power of tutoring, and the art of studying smarter, not harder. Plug in, power up, and let's chart the course to a future brimming with potential, guided by the stories and strategies shared in this not-to-be-missed exchange.Connect with Omuhle:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omuhl__e/LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/omuhlendhlovu/Toastmasters Speach: Post | Feed | LinkedInSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

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 with certainty-The critical role of academic advising-The art of professional networking-Strategically using platforms like LinkedIn to spark connections that can shine a light on various career possibilities-The college selection process We emphasize the crucial blend of academic and real-world experience, urging students to seize internships and other hands-on learning opportunities to solidify their educational journey.We highlight the essence of collaboration. Whether it’s seizing campus job opportunities that compliment your studies or the unexpected gains from cultivating professional bonds, this episode celebrates the endless possibilities open to students who proactively seek them out. Let's continue to weave these vital connections together. Connect with Bernadina:LinkedIn, Facebook, TwitterAs a first-generation student she earned a bachelor's and master's degree in the University of Houston System, Bernadina found her why in higher education. She made it her passion to teach others how to leverage the resources at a college or university. "Many families and their students misunderstand what resources exist during the academic journey. If a student viewed the entire campus and every single administrator, department and staff on their campus as a member of their team, the transition into a college or university would be much smoother.  As a mother of a current college student, I've trained her to ask questions, make connections and curate her team to help while pursuing her academic goals." About University of Houston - Clear LakeUHCL Partnerships LinkedInSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Bonus Episode Scholarship Opportunity Café Bustelo El Café Del Futuro Scholarship applicants must meet the following scholarship criteria to qualify:Open to ALL majorsMust be attending a 4-year HACU Member institutionOpen to Undergraduate and Graduate studentsMust be enrolled Full-timeMust be of Hispanic or Latinx descent? (Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture/origin).Deadline: June 30, 2024Apply TodaySend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Together we'll tackle the often daunting process of career changes for teens. Whether your child is facing a switch in high school endorsements or a complete overhaul of their college major, our latest episode is a rich resource for parents and teens alike. With a blend of empathy and practical advice, we dissect the emotional journey of transitions, offering strategies for adjusting educational plans and navigating the complexities of shifting aspirations towards the future.Navigating the choppy waters of a career path isn't a solo journey; it's a partnership between parent and teen. Drawing from my personal detour away from a nursing program, I delve into the cognitive triangle of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, bringing the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy into our conversation. This approach arms you with the tools to provide a supportive environment, helping your teen assess their satisfaction, explore alternative roles, and make informed decisions without fear or judgment. It's about connecting, understanding, and guiding them through each step with encouragement and insight.We emphasize the transformative power of small, positive changes. It's these incremental shifts that can boost your teen's confidence, reframing challenges as opportunities for growth. Share this journey with others in your community, and let's continue to embrace these transformative years with our teens, empowering them to find their unique path to success.Episodes mentioned: 65. Guiding Your Teen Towards their Ideal Career using a Four-Step Framework66. How to connect with your teen using their primary love languageSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Are you staring at a financial aid offer and wishing it could stretch just a bit further for your child to attend their dream college? Fear not, as you still have an option to appealing for more college funds! Timing is everything – we underscore the urgency to act quickly before those critical deadlines slip by.Together we will dive into the three top persuasive reasons to file a financial aid appeal. This episode will guide you on how to leverage unprecedented circumstances to your advantage. Plus, we will also share a reason overlooked by most and that you can take advantage of and leverage to your child's advantage! This isn't just a chat about dollars and cents; it's about empowering your family to turn that dream college into a reality, all while keeping your wallet intact.Episode mentioned: 52. Maximizing Financial Aid: FAFSA Updates, Scholarship Strategies, and Money-Saving Tips w/the College Funding QueenSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Did you know your teen does not have to know all the answers today like we have been led to believe? Step into the world of high school career planning with Sonia Cacique in this special episode. Unravel the complexities of endorsements, pathways, and certification options, transforming confusion into clarity for families.  Loaded with heartfelt anecdotes and practical advice, this session equips you with tools to navigate conversations about your teen's future with confidence. Dive into the nuts and bolts of educational pathways, as it is for Texans for example, understanding their transformative role in early career exploration. Embrace a flexible approach to guide your teen's journey and foster an environment where career planning becomes empowering, not stressful.Celebrating International Women’s Day, Sonia acknowledges her pod squad, inspiring women who support her mission. Here are their podcasts:Speaking of Teens with Ann ColemanPower to the Pleasers with Vicki SmithYour Zen Friend with Lauren WolfeReference in episode.Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Today we will explore what your options are and what to consider when deciding with your teen what college to choose. The emotional twists and turns of the college admissions process can feel like being on a rollercoaster. But today I open the door to having a candid conversation between parents and teens, spotlighting the impact of societal pressures and the heavy hand of social media.We talk about: the sting of rejectionthe celebration of acceptancethe recent FAFSA changes that have us all exercising patienceThrough personal anecdotes and a dive into the essence of what truly makes a "right school," we challenge the status quo and reframe success beyond prestigious names.As we explore the heartfelt considerations families must face when selecting a college, prepare to find a relief of pressure. Join us as we embrace the educational adventure, reassuring you that the path to success is as unique as each student who walks it.Episodes mentioned: 47. [Career Exploration] Computational Engineer at the University of Texas (UT Austin) + Exploring going to college in a field underrepresented by women with Niccole Riera52. Maximizing Financial Aid: FAFSA Updates, Scholarship Strategies, and Money-Saving Tips w/the College Funding Queen42.Deciding between community college and a four-year university: An In-Depth Look at the Decision-Making ProcessSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Imagine shattering the myths surrounding the oil and gas industry and stepping into a world of high-tech, environmentally conscious opportunities - that's exactly what we're doing with our guest Mark in today's episode. Our conversation peels back layers of misconception, showcasing the industry's need for roles like data scientists and field technicians, while highlighting the global reach and educational incentives that await eager minds. Mark takes immense pride in the strides towards sustainability and invite others with a passion for the planet to join us in making an impact. He also emphasizes the significance of networking within the oil and gas community, revealing how personal connections can open doors that technology alone cannot. This episode is not just a discussion; it's a roadmap for growing your career in the dynamic world of oil and gas.A special thanks to our sponsors:OGGN TGSUSILinks for student internship opportunities: ExxonMobilChevronShellBPSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Summer's on the horizon, and if the thought of your teen lounging away their break has you in a panic, fear not! I'm Sonia, founder of DiscoverU, and in this feature-packed episode, we're mapping out the opportunities to transform your teen's break into an adventure that sparks their interests and propels their future. Picture this: your teen, fueled by passion and purpose, diving into a world of innovation or creativity, their summer story etched with skills and experiences that universities and employers adore. Ready to become the ultimate guide in your teen's quest for an unforgettable summer? Let's embark on this journey together.Episodes referenced in this episode: 65. Guiding Your Teen Towards their Ideal Career using a Four-Step Framework66. How to connect with your teen using their primary love language49. [Career Exploration] Learn about a Biomedical and Cancer Research Program (PathMaker)61. [Student Pep Talk] Craft a Strategic LinkedIn Presence for Ambitious StudentsSend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Venture with us into the niche yet integral world of veterinary pharmacy, where pharmacists extend their expertise to our cherished animal companions. Alex's story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and forging connections with industry leaders, paving her path into this specialized field. We shine a spotlight on the compelling blend of roles available to pharmacists, from compounding medications for zoo animals to contributing to veterinary research. We will discuss:-Careers in Pharmacy-Specialty Pharmacy Opportunities with a focus in Veterinary Pharmacy-Highlight skills needed for this career path-About Texas Tech Health Science Center (various campuses)-Following your interest-How to seek out opportunities and the beauty of persistence and determination plus moreYou can connect with Alexandria on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Texas Tech Health Science Center and their Doctor of PharmacySend us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Building a solid foundation of open communication is key to nurturing a strong parent-teen relationship and facilitating their self-discovery journey towards academic and career fulfillment.  However, that can be impeded if your teen is not feeling loved.If you love your teen, yet they constantly tell you that you don't love them, then that means you might not be speaking to them in their love language.Today we will explore how:strong parent-teen communication lays the foundation for building essential life skillsto identify their primary love languageto identify ways to show them love in their primary love languageto better understand them and build a stronger relationshipRemember, we cannot start a conversation about career readiness if you are not connecting with your teen, CONNECTION before DIRECTION my friend. This will be a great episode for you!Learn about The 5 Love Languages of Children: The Secret to Loving Children Effectively by Gary Chapman here.Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

Struggling to navigate the complex maze of career choices for your teen? Wanting to help them decide on a career path? Are you overwhelmed with the college and career readiness journey? You're not alone. This conversation isn't just about making the grade or landing a spot at a top college. We're turning the conventional approach on its head, starting with an often-neglected step one of the process. If you are already in the college selection process, you may want to stop and take a listen!As the founder of Discover U College and Career Coaching, I'm here to guide you and your teen through these pivotal steps, ensuring their well-being remains at the forefront. So join us today!Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"

When life throws a curveball at your meticulously sketched plans, how do you pivot and catch your calling? Our latest guest, Sarah Hensley— from Sam Houston State University—did just that, trading her dreams of interior design for the leadership of two non-profit organizations. We get personal about her transformative journey, discussing the power of embracing your natural gifts, the importance of being a guiding light, and her initiative to inspire through speaking engagements and church camps.Finding your tribe can be as important as finding your purpose. Reflecting on the value of a college education, Sarah and I delve into how it's not just about the degree but the lifelong friendships and discovering strengths within ourselves. She shares stories on how her early experiences shaped her leadership path, the essential support of communities in nurturing talents, and how Sarah's faith remained steadfast even in the face of exclusion. Join us as we celebrate the steps of this remarkable young woman, extending the invitation to stay connected through her mission, and, as we part ways this week, I leave you with an expression of gratitude. Your support fuels our conversations, and I'm eager to hear how Sarah's story has touched your own journey—reach out, and let's keep the dialogue alive.You can connect with Sarah on Instagram at: Godlygirl Foundation (@godlygirl_20) and Treasure Heart Foundation (@treasureheart20) Send us a Text Message.Connect with Sonia CaciqueLinkedInInstagramJOIN OUR CAREER NEWSLETTER here. 🚀 I'll help you rediscover who you truly are, provide clarity towards your future and be your personalized coach with Multiple Service Package options. Your Coach Sonia is ready to help you! "Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"