You’ve probably heard the phrase “just be yourself” when it comes to the UC Personal Insight Questions — but what does that actually mean? In this episode, I walk you through each of the eight UC PIQ prompts, sharing what they’re really asking, common mistakes I see students make, and how to approach these essays with clarity, honesty, and intention. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just unsure where to begin, this is your practical guide to writing PIQs that reflect who you are — not just what you’ve done.

PIQ Guide for First Year Students: https://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/_assets/files/how-to-apply/first-year-english.pdf

PIQ Guide for Transfer Students: https://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/_blocks/how-to-apply/transfer-applicants/transfer-english.pdf

This episode is about why your twenties matter more than most of us realize. I’m walking through the biggest ideas from The Defining Decade by Meg Jay — from work and identity capital to relationships, and how your brain is still developing. Your 20's are the perfect time for understanding that the small choices you’re making now actually add up.

In this episode, I’m breaking down how to use a Joy Map as a practical way to reset when school or life feels off. Whether you’re tired, stuck, or just feeling disconnected, your Joy Map can help you figure out what you need before you make big decisions — like choosing a major, dropping a class, or deciding where to transfer.

We’ll walk through how to make your own Joy Map, how to use it when life feels heavy, and why it’s worth paying attention to what actually feels good — not just what looks good on paper.

In this first episode of Beyond Office Hours, we’re talking about why planning your classes before knowing yourself is completely backwards.

I’m walking you through the reflection questions I ask my students before we ever talk about what to register for — so you can make decisions that actually align with your goals, your energy, and what feels good to you (not just what looks good on paper).

Plus, I’ll introduce you to a tool I use called the Joy Map, and we’ll talk about how to handle the fear of wasting time if you change your mind about your major.

Welcome to Beyond Office Hours — the podcast that helps you figure out who you are and where you want to go. In this trailer, I’m sharing what the show is about, who it’s for, and what you can expect in each episode. If you’re a student or early-career listener who’s ready to make decisions with more clarity and confidence, this is the place for you.