The TecoGuide Podcast

Living in the Bay Area can be notoriously expensive, a major hurdle for students looking to attend school there. SFBU tackles this by offering subsidized student housing, which means lower-than-market rent prices that reduce your total cost of attendance. This alone can make attending SFBU much more feasible than other institutions in the region. One of the most powerful insights shared by educati...

What does it take to succeed in college when you’re the first in your family to go? In this heartfelt Transfer Basics Series feature, retired college counselor Manuel Reyes shares his powerful story, from a humble childhood in a railroad worker’s colony to a degree from UC Davis and a career serving thousands of students. Key moments include: Growing up with immigrant parents from Zacatecas, Mexic...

In this inspiring launch of our Transfer Basics Series, Josh Kahn shares how losing a full-ride scholarship and dropping out of college became the turning point that taught him how to truly be a student. This episode is packed with tips on time management, planning, and building habits for academic success, especially for first-gen and transfer-bound students. When people think of a good student,...

"I flamed out of college. Lost my scholarship. Worked in a warehouse. Then… I came back, graduated with honors, and earned my master’s.” In this Transfer Basics Series episode of TecoGuide, Josh Kahn shares his real and relatable journey, from academic failure to professional success. His experience underscores the importance of equitable access, second chances through community college, and build...

"Most of the time, it's not others telling you no. It's you telling yourself no." Meet Alejandra, a first-generation student who grew up in low-income housing, the youngest of six, and began working at age 14. College wasn’t in her plan. She had no idea what came after high school, until she heard about “free money” for college. That one sentence led her to enroll at Sacramento City College. There...

How to Secure a Guaranteed Spot at a #UC Campus: Understanding the UC Transfer Admission Guarantee (#TAG) Program Navigating the path from community college to a University of California (UC) campus can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Six campuses offer you a guaranteed spot through the Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program. Find out which ones and how you qualify in this episode of t...

The CSU system spans 23 campuses across California and offers approximately 4,000 degree programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. That’s a tremendous array of opportunities for students across a wide range of interests and career paths. However, not all CSU campuses offer the same majors. For instance, Sac State has 16 undergraduate programs, 40 graduate programs, and 2 doctoral...

In California, 85% of Black and Latino students in community college don’t make it to a university within four years. The issue isn’t the students, it’s the system. In this podcast, we introduce #TecoGuide, the free app that helps students navigate the complex transfer process. Learn how we’re changing the game for California’s future. We didn’t build TecoGuide to “disrupt” education. We built it...

Thinking about #transferring to a #CSU, #UC, private Institutions or even an out-of-state school? Learn how community college can be your most affordable first step to a bachelor’s degree. Professor G breaks it all down. Take control of your education! Starting at a community college doesn’t mean taking a shortcut. It means making a strategic and affordable choice. Complete 60 units (about 20 cour...

We’re unpacking the UC TAG system, a powerful route for CA community college students to secure a UC campus spot. From who qualifies to when to apply, #TecoGuide has you covered. Participating in TAG comes with multiple advantages: Early Review: Students receive an early evaluation of their academic records. Advance Admission Notification: Early decisions help students plan ahead. Customized Guida...

#TRANSFER TO UC SUCCESSFULLY! Personal Insight Questions Explained Get the UC edge! In this #TecoGuide episode, Counselor Huy walks you through exactly how to craft standout personal insight responses for your #UC transfer application. Learn what admissions officers really want to see, plus tips to showcase your strengths, background, and academic story. Don’t miss this breakdown! To answer effect...

Success in college isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Start by getting organized. Create a weekly study plan, for every unit you take, dedicate two hours of study time. If you’re taking 15 units, aim for 30 study hours per week. Preview course material before class—come prepared with questions. Review and rewrite notes to reinforce key concepts. Commit to office hours—professor...

Ever feel like you're struggling more than your classmates to focus, stay organized, or understand material? It might not be a lack of effort, it could be a learning disability or ADHD that was never diagnosed. The good news? Many community colleges offer testing or can refer you to local resources. If you qualify, your Disability Resource Center can help set up accommodations that make learning m...

Are you struggling to juggle work, school, and life? You’re not alone. Many California students have to work while pursuing their degrees. But here’s the thing: staying in school longer because of work may cost you MORE in the long run. Smart Financial Moves: Consider part-time work + student loans to stay focused on school. Look into CalFresh (food assistance for students). Housing scholarships m...

Are you struggling with balancing classes, studying, and personal responsibilities? Effective time management is the key to excelling in college without feeling overwhelmed. Here’s how you can take control of your academic life: Use a planner or digital calendar: Whether you prefer writing things down or using an app, schedule your study sessions in advance Preview & review: Spend an hour befo...

Are you making the most of your college's academic support services? Many students don’t realize just how many resources are available to help them succeed, not just academically, but also emotionally and socially. From tutoring centers to academic counseling, study groups, and professor office hours, your campus is equipped with tools to support you. The key is knowing where to find them and how...

Starting college can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. From learning how to register for classes to understanding deadlines, campus resources, and even finding the best way to buy textbooks, preparation is key. Here are some pro tips: Attend orientation or meet with an academic counselor if you missed it. Use a laptop or tablet for registration, it’s easier than using a p...

Thinking about community college? Whether your goal is to earn a certificate, complete an associate’s degree, or transfer to a CSU or UC, California community colleges offer numerous pathways to success. Not sure what path to take? That’s okay! Career and academic counselors are available to help you figure out the best options for your future. From selecting the right courses to ensuring transfer...

The California Community Colleges offer an accessible, affordable, and flexible path to higher education and career advancement. With 115 campuses, numerous financial aid opportunities, and a variety of programs, there is truly something for everyone. Did you know that most students at California Community Colleges pay $0 for tuition? With financial aid programs like the California College Promise...

Whether you're a high school student planning your next steps, a working adult considering a career change, or someone returning to school later in life, California offers #affordable and accessible higher education paths. California Community Colleges – 116 colleges, only $46 per unit, and often free for first-time students! California State Universities (CSU) – 23 campuses with strong academic p...

Have you ever experienced unfair treatment on a college campus? It happens more often than we’d like to admit—whether in the classroom, financial aid office, or even during a routine interaction on campus. At #TecoGuide, we believe students should have the knowledge and confidence to advocate for themselves. If you ever feel belittled, dismissed, or unfairly treated, speak up. Address the issue di...

Choosing the right university is a big decision, but what if you realize that your school isn't the right fit? You're not alone—thousands of students face this dilemma every year. Whether it's due to academics, social life, or homesickness, making a change is possible. Option 1: Withdraw or Take a Leave of Absence If you need to leave immediately, notify your admissions office and ensure you offic...

Navigating college can be challenging, especially when trying to meet with a counselor who keeps canceling your appointments. At #TecoGuide, we know this struggle all too well. As a college student, you are being trained to become a professional, and professionals keep records. Maintaining a log not only keeps you organized but also serves as evidence if you need to escalate your concerns. Here’s...

Have you ever been told you’re not smart enough, not good enough, or just not “college material”? If so, you’re not alone. Many students face discouragement before they even have the chance to prove themselves. But here’s the truth: Your potential isn’t defined by what others say. Everyone is capable of learning, growing, and achieving. The only thing that matters is what you choose to believe. Ig...

Applying for financial aid can feel like taking another college course—confusing, frustrating, and full of obstacles. But Professor G shares a powerful strategy: document everything, follow up persistently, and demand clarity. Here’s how to ensure your financial aid is handled correctly: Keep detailed records—dates, names, submission statuses Follow up at least every 3 weeks Ask for grant specific...