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 Yzaguirre from the Seattle Mariners. He discusses the importance of mentorship, persistence, and understanding one's 'why' in navigating career opportunities. Tune in to learn valuable tips for transitioning from college to a career and the significance of nurturing professional relationships.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:43 Meet Connor Pockinjack
02:44 Building Connections on LinkedIn
07:14 Transitioning from High School to College
12:06 The Importance of Mentorship
13:07 Connecting with Yvette Izaguirre
18:09 Connor's Career Journey and Advice
21:27 Closing Remarks and Farewell
Connect with Connor:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/connor-potkonjak
Instagram: connorpotkonjak
Episodes mentioned with Yvette Yzaguirre:
Episode #51 and #52: https://collegecareerready.org/podcast
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends ✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 facets of pharmacy work led him to establish Kaduceus Holdings, which provides educational and medical training across the U.S.
The conversation underscores the value of CONNECTIONS, mentorship, resilience, and faith in achieving career success. The episode also highlights Sonia's upcoming career connections online course which starts July 8, 2024. It is aimed at helping students explore career opportunities and create actionable plans for their futures.
The episode emphasizes the importance of exposure, mentorship, and community in achieving success.
00:00 Introduction and Building Connections
03:32 Interview with Anthony Newton: Career Journey
06:41 Anthony's Early Career and Mentorship
12:15 Founding kaduceus Holdings
19:00 Expanding and Overcoming Challenges
26:43 Advice and Reflections
34:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 how her experience with Acton Academy inspired her to apply this approach with her adult learners, a class of pharmacy students, and saw much success within that timeframe.
That led her to create an unconventional private school that focuses on real-world skills over standardized tests. The conversation also explores the significance of failure, growth mindset, and the role of parents in shaping their children's education. Tune in to learn how Amelia is challenging the status quo in education and preparing the next generation for meaningful careers.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:20 Guest Background and Journey
03:06 Innovative Teaching Methods
04:36 Implementing Acton Methods
14:22 Growth Mindset and Real-World Skills
26:28 Parental Guidance and Education
29:33 Conclusion and School Information
Connect with Amelia Sofjan:
https://www.instagram.com/masterpieceacton/
https://www.facebook.com/masterpieceacton
To learn about Masterpiece:
https://www.masterpieceacademy.org/
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 essays.
This episode aims to provide practical tips and encouragement for students and parents navigating the college admissions journey.
We will discuss:
- Understanding college admissions
- Why AI is not the answer
- The importance of authenticity in your personal statement
- Why you should embrace your individuality
- Sharing your personal struggles
- Exploring your career path and connections
Loved this episode, share it with a friend.
Want to connect further and be part of our growing community? Then join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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, networking, and reflecting on personal successes to help students and parents. They also discuss the Cup of Joey initiative, a community networking group focused on personal stories and human connection.
To connect with Bryan:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-hill1992/
To learn more about Cup of Joey:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cup-of-joey/
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 from high school to college. She also shares her personal experience of preparing her own son for college. We cover topics such as the importance of fostering independence, executive functioning skills, managing responsibilities, and effective communication. Throughout the conversation, Lauren provides actionable advice for parents, including the benefits of part-time jobs, practical tips for building independence, and recognizing the need for supportive interventions.
Episode mentioned on the podcast:
62. Is it Stress or Anxiety? Strategies in Managing Mental Health for Kids, High-Achieving Teens and Adults with Lauren Wolfe
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 Development and Leadership Programs
- Academic and Career Preparation
- Health and Wellness
Special Announcement:
Introduction to our upcoming online course for 10th-12th graders with live group coaching sessions and modules covering character development, career connections, and more. For more information email info@college.careerready.org
Additional Resources:
Get in Touch:
- Email: info@collegecareerready.org
- Website: collegecareerready.org
Thank you for joining us today! We hope this episode inspires you to start meaningful conversations with your adolescent about their summer plans. Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey. See you next week!
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 skills
- the significance of communication
- sharing practical advice on making connections
To connect with our guest and sponsor:
https://wingsenergy.travel/
https://oggn.com/ben/
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
- 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 during interviews and showcase accomplishments and your success journey
- Reminder to start building a portfolio early on for college application, internships and job interviews
Episode #78: Timely Episode: The Importance of Letters of Recommendation
And if you have any questions along the way, reach out to me on LinkedIn and Instagram.
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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.
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"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 Affirmations
- Adolescents' Self-Worth
- Adolescents' Identity
Interested 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.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"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 SAT
- How to secure $100,000+ college scholarships
- How 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.com
Connect with Dr. Patel:
https://www.facebook.com/prepexpert/
https://www.instagram.com/prep_expert/?hl=en
https://www.tiktok.com/@prep_expert
https://twitter.com/Prep_Expert
https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-expert
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"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)
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"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 Transition
- Discover 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 Insights
- Understand how the program prepares students for success in the field.
Admissions Process
- Explore 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.html
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiealvarado19/
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"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 | LinkedIn
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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, Twitter
As 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 Lake
UHCL Partnerships
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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).
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 Framework
66. How to connect with your teen using their primary love language
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 Queen
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 Coleman
Power to the Pleasers with Vicki Smith
Your Zen Friend with Lauren Wolfe
Reference in episode.
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"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 rejection
- the celebration of acceptance
- the recent FAFSA changes that have us all exercising patience
Through 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 Riera
52. Maximizing Financial Aid: FAFSA Updates, Scholarship Strategies, and Money-Saving Tips w/the College Funding Queen
42.Deciding between community college and a four-year university: An In-Depth Look at the Decision-Making Process
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"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:
Links for student internship opportunities:
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
Episodes referenced in this episode:
65. Guiding Your Teen Towards their Ideal Career using a Four-Step Framework
66. How to connect with your teen using their primary love language
49. [Career Exploration] Learn about a Biomedical and Cancer Research Program (PathMaker)
61. [Student Pep Talk] Craft a Strategic LinkedIn Presence for Ambitious Students
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 more
You can connect with Alexandria on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Texas Tech Health Science Center and their Doctor of Pharmacy
Career Connections Summer Course
✔ Define interests, abilities & career goals ✔ Explore employment opportunities and trends
✔ Create your LinkedIn profile ✔ Establish S.M.A.R.T goals ✔ Create a personalized roadmap
It is a 5-week Self-Paced Online Course w/ Weekly Virtual Group Sessions; first group session starts July 15th.
For more info: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/Course
Connect with Sonia Cacique
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Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 skills
- to identify their primary love language
- to identify ways to show them love in their primary love language
- to better understand them and build a stronger relationship
Remember, 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.
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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87. How Students can Build Connections using LinkedIn: From College to a Career in Sports with Connor Potkonjak
24:28
86. The Power of Connections for Career Exploration + When One Door Closes, Another One Opens
37:06
85. How to Instill an Innovative Growth Mindset in Education and in Future Career Opportunities with Amelia Sofjan
33:50
84. Beyond Grades: What Colleges Want to See in Your College Application That Does NOT Include AI
15:18
83. How to Find Your “Why” and Purpose with Bryan Hill
33:11
82. How to Prepare your Teen for College Today with Counselor Lauren Wolfe, LPC
41:00
81. A Summer Guide for Parents and Adolescents: Strategies for Future Success
18:43
80. The Network Generation: From Introverts to Influencers w/ Podcast Hosts of The BEN Show Podcast
25:23
79. Stand Out with a Portfolio (for College Admissions, Internships and Job Interviews): A Guide for Students
11:17
78. Timely Episode: The Importance of Letters of Recommendation
13:27
77. How Your Words Impact Your Adolescents' Performance
15:34
76. How to Help Your Student Improve their SAT and ACT Scores, Get Into Top Colleges, and Win $1,000's in Scholarships w/ Dr. Shaan Patel
38:11
Bonus: The Art of Local Scholarship Hunting, a Hidden Secret Google Search Scholarship Tip, and a Scholarship Opportunity for College Students Away From Home
8:33
75. An Innovative Pathway to an Engineering Degree: A Partnership between Industry, Community College & Texas A&M Engineering with Eddie Alvarado
40:21
74. Combining Passions in Chemical Engineering and Business Management, Finding Community and Being Resourceful: a Student Tale from Zimbabwe to Bucknell University with Omuhle Ndhlovu
43:27
73. The Impact of Paid Internships and Experiential Learning with Bernadina Gonzales Streeter
51:47
[Bonus] Scholarship Opportunity | Cafe Bustelo
2:23
72. The 3 Steps To Take When Your Teen Decides To Change Their Career Plans
30:54
[Bonus] How to File an Appeal for Financial Award Aid When Your Family Requires More Funds
5:53
71. High School Options (Pathways, Certifications, Dual Credit, Endorsements) Plus Tips to Reduce Stress and Anxiety in the Process.
35:29
70. Acceptance letters, rejection letters and waitlist. How to decide what college and the rollercoaster of emotions.
18:08
69. [Career Exploration] The Future of Oil and Gas: High-Tech Careers and Environmental Innovation with Industry Insider Mark LaCour
22:18
68. Find Summer Programs to Gain Meaningful Experiences
11:40
67. [Career Exploration] A Career In Veterinary Pharmacy with Alexandria Arnett; Texas Tech University Student
35:28
66. Connect with your teen using their primary love language
16:28