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 parents guide their teens from high school to college and beyond, including:
- Why self-awareness is key to successful career selection in today’s fast-changing job market.
- The importance of making meaningful career connections early on to gain real-world skills and opportunities.
- How my signature Career Connections online course can help your student transition from high school to college with clarity and confidence.
- Lessons I’ve learned from podcasting, including overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing new opportunities.
As I pause podcasting to focus on DiscoverU College and Career Coaching, I’m sharing tips and tools you can use to help your teen prepare for their journey with purpose and direction.
Resources Mentioned:
- Join the Career Connections newsletter: collegecareerready.org/join
- Sign up for the Career Connections online course starting in January 2025: https://collegecareerready.org/course or Email me directly at info@collegecareerready.org.
Let’s Stay Connected:
- Website: collegecareerready.org
- Newsletter: collegecareerready.org/join
This isn’t goodbye but an hasta pronto! Thank you for being part of this journey. Always remember – stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey!
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 “right” way to find success.
I’m excited to share that my next cohort of my signature Career Connections online course will be opening soon for registration. You can add yourself to the waitlist by going to www.CollegeCareerReady.org/course , The Career Connections course is designed to help students build meaningful career connections and set clear, actionable goals to thrive in today’s job market. They will learn my signature framework that will get them closer to defining a career major and ultimately a career path just for them!
Throughout this episode, I’ll offer practical, actionable advice for parents on how to guide their children in developing self-awareness, planning their future with confidence, and making impactful connections that open doors they didn't even know existed. Whether your child is just starting to think about their career or is preparing to enter the workforce, this episode is filled with insights to help you support them every step of the way. So listen in and join us!
00:00 Introduction to College and Career Ready Podcast
00:47 Supporting Your Child's Academic and Career Journey
01:44 The Importance of Self-Discovery
03:21 Careers Are Not Linear
06:19 Understanding Gen Z's Mission-Based Approach
08:20 Helping Your Child Discover Their Unique Story
13:17 Building Real-World Connections
15:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Episodes mentioned: 66. Connect with your teen using their primary love language
80. The Network Generation: From Introverts to Influencers w/ Podcast Hosts of The BEN Show Podcast
97. From Campus to Career: Leverage Alumni Networks for College and Career Readiness
61. [Student Pep Talk] Craft a Strategic LinkedIn Presence for Ambitious Students w/ Jesse Undergrad Student at Howard University
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 navigating career choices without much guidance as a first-gen student. With the support of my first mentor, Chris LeBlanc, a registered pharmacist, I discovered the power of mentorship and envisioning a broader career path. My story underscores the transformative impact of mentorship and the importance of technical careers as vital stepping stones to achieving greater aspirations.
Explore with me the significance of acquiring skills early on and preparing for future career opportunities. From pharmacy technician to career coach and navigator at the Pearland Innovation Hub, this is my story. It illustrates how taking that first step can lead to unexpected opportunities and new paths.
I encourage students and aspiring professionals to dream bigger by seizing opportunities and finding the right mentors who can guide them toward achieving greater things. As we celebrate the invaluable contributions of pharmacy technicians, I express my gratitude for your ongoing support and invite you to connect on social media. Let's redefine what it means to be college and career ready, together.
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 importance of networking, leveraging alumni associations, and actively participating in college events to transition smoothly from education to a successful career.
00:00 Introduction to College and Career Ready Podcast
01:08 Guest Introduction: Meet Quincey Hettinger
01:48 Discovering the Alumni Association
05:13 The Power of Connections
08:35 Networking for Career Success
13:25 Leadership and Volunteering Experiences
14:54 Final Thoughts and Advice
15:36 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 interests, leveraging connections, and being patient with self-assessment to build a successful career. Quincey also provides advice for students facing challenges in their career journey, emphasizing resilience and proactive networking.
00:00 Introduction to College and Career Ready Podcast
00:35 Meet Quincey: From Undecided Major to Career Success
01:17 Quincey's High School Journey and College Decision
05:30 Exploring Majors and Career Development in College
06:32 Navigating College Clubs and Career Choices
13:43 Quincey's Post-College Career Path
19:39 Overcoming Career Challenges and Finding the Right Fit
26:31 Final Thoughts and Words of Encouragement
28:43 Closing Remarks and How to Connect
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 TechFest Expo on November 8th at the University of Houston, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship in navigating tech careers.
00:00 Introduction to College and Career Ready Podcast
00:39 Meet Khalil Vinson: Bridging the Technology Gap
03:13 Exploring Tech Education and Career Opportunities
05:00 Identifying Interests and Leveraging Technology
17:26 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Finding Mentors
24:18 The Future of Technology and Inclusivity
27:03 TechFest Live: Empowering the Community
34:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
For more information on Tech Fest Live: https://techfestlive.com/
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 engineering and robotics.
Throughout this episode, Sophia discusses the challenges and uncertainties she faced while searching for her passion. She also shares valuable insights on the importance of exploring different interests, developing soft skills, and the role of perseverance in finding one’s true path. Her story is a powerful reminder that the journey to discovering your passion is just as important as the destination.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of exploring various interests to find your true passion.
- How taking a CAD course led Sophia to discover her love for engineering and robotics.
- The value of soft skills, mentorship, and not focusing solely on GPA in personal and professional growth.
- Encouragement for students who are unsure about their future paths.
Resources Mentioned:
- Alvin Community College CAD
- Robotics Clubs and STEM Programs
Subscribe & Leave a Review:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more students and educators!
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 to kick off the year on the right foot.
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 emphasizes the benefit of hidden gem colleges and the practical importance of in-person campus visits. This episode is packed with essential advice for high school students and their families navigating the college admissions journey, highlighting the need for thorough research and self-reflection to make well-informed decisions.
00:00 Introduction to the College and Career Ready Podcast
00:36 Meet Michelle McAnaney: Founder of The College Spy
02:22 Understanding Return on Investment in College Selection
06:20 The Importance of College Fit Over Name Brand
15:36 Creating a Personalized College List
23:10 The Value of Campus Visits and Virtual Tours
28:32 Discovering Hidden Gem Colleges
36:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 episode you will have gained valuable resources to start making connections early and to discover new career opportunities. Coach Sonia shares personal anecdotes demonstrating how connections have significantly impacted her own career journey and advises students to engage with professionals in their fields of interest to gain insight and opportunities. The episode is a motivational guide on leveraging relationships to discover and pursue fulfilling career paths.
00:00 Introduction to College and Career Ready Podcast
01:06 The Importance of Connections
01:21 Join the College and Career Connections Club
02:49 Personal Journey and the Value of Mentors
05:55 Building Your Network for Career Success
10:39 Practical Steps to Build Connections
14:08 Career Connections Course and Community
16:12 Conclusion and Listener Engagement
Mentioned in the podcast:
Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/course
College and Career Connections Club: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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 career success. Reena also provides tips for parents on how to support their children's talents and emphasizes the importance of networking for college students. Tune in for valuable advice and strategies to help college students excel.
Topic of conversation:
- Maximizing College Experience
- High School Challenges and Lessons
- Finding Your Passions
- Career Transitions and Realizations
- Exploring User-Friendly Tools for Content Creation
- The Power of Networking: From Events to Opportunities
- Mastering LinkedIn: Tips and Tricks
- Encouraging Talents and Interests
Connect with Reena:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
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
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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/
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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/
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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!
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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/
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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.
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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.
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"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
DiscoverU Career and Leadership Empowerment is designed for women and moms just like you—navigating the challenges of career, family, and personal growth. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, craving more purpose in your career, stepping into leadership, or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, DiscoverU provides the tools, coaching, and support to help you rise with confidence. Visit www.CollegeCareerReady.org
Connect with Sonia Cacique
LinkedIn
Instagram
Join our College and Career Connections Club for free at www.CollegeCareerReady.org/join
Learn about our Career Connections Course: www.CollegeCareerReady.org/COURSE
"Stay well, be present, and enjoy the journey"
Episode 100: Celebrating the Journey – What this journey has taught me and for the high school & college students I coach!
14:23
99. How to help your teen or adolescent stand out in a world of endless CAREER opportunities!
19:14
98. From a Technical Certification to Career Success: Celebrating National Pharmacy Technician Day
18:10
97. From Campus to Career: Leverage Alumni Networks for College and Career Readiness
17:25
96. Choosing a College Major and Finding Your Path; How to Choose a Major and Explore Career Options with Quincey Hettinger
31:44
95. TechFest Live: Bridging the Gap in Tech Education with Khalil Vinson
36:40
94. Finding Your Passion: Sofia's Journey from Uncertainty to STEM Success
24:15
93. Starting Fresh: How to Thrive This New School Year with Three Easy Steps
16:22
92. How to Find Hidden Gem Colleges: Expert Advice for Students and Parents to Find the Right College with Michelle McAnaney
39:25
91. How to Determine If You Have Chosen a Career Path That Is Right for You w/ Actionable Steps for Every Student
20:49
90. Why Connections Might Matter More Than Grades: A Lesson You Won't Learn in School or College
19:35
89. How Students Can Overcome Fear While Embracing New Beginnings in School and Life
14:12
88. How Networking in College Leads to Career Readiness and Job Offers after College with Reena Friedman-Watts
41:36
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
36:20
85. How to Instill an Innovative Growth Mindset in Education and in Future Career Opportunities with Amelia Sofjan
33:03
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
32:24
82. How to Prepare your Teen for College Today with Counselor Lauren Wolfe, LPC
40:13
81. A Summer Guide for Parents and Adolescents: Strategies for Future Success
19:31
80. The Network Generation: From Introverts to Influencers w/ Podcast Hosts of The BEN Show Podcast
24:36
79. Stand Out with a Portfolio (for College Admissions, Internships and Job Interviews): A Guide for Students
12:05
78. Timely Episode: The Importance of Letters of Recommendation
14:15
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
37:24