What if one application could change your future?

In this inspiring episode of EDUCATE. ELEVATE., we’re talking about the September 2nd Cal Grant deadline, and the importance of applying for financial aid for students enrolling in community college in the fall. Join us as we highlight the benefits of applying for the FAFSA or CADAA by the September 2nd priority deadline to receive the most aid possible.

Hear from Gina Browne, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Programs and Strategic Operations, as she breaks down the resources available to help students—from tuition and books to childcare, transportation, and more. Then, meet Trajan Robinson, a Folsom Lake College alum now thriving at UC Berkeley, as he shares how financial aid helped him stay focused and fearless.

Plus, don’t miss an exclusive performance of “Lessons” by musical guest and San Jose City College alum Justin Llamas—a heartfelt vocal piece about growth and self-discovery.

This is more than an episode—it’s a reminder that your dreams are within reach. Learn more and take the first step at ICanGoToCollege.com.

In this episode, we take you inside a very special event – the 18th Annual A²MEND Summit – bringing together over 1,300 community college students, faculty and leaders from across California. The African American Male Education Network and Development (A²MEND) organization helps students redefine their futures and find greater success in and out of the classroom. While the organization’s passion is to motivate and inspire Black and African American men to dream big and become whatever they want to be, A²MEND supports all students with mentorship, leadership development, and other transformative experiences. The A²MEND Summit brings together students, professionals, and administrators across the California Community Colleges system to build stronger pathways from application to graduation. Nearly 75% of African American males begin their higher education journey at a community college, and A²MEND is committed to ensuring each has access to the support and mentorship they need to accomplish their dreams. A²MEND now has charters and counselors at over 60 California community college campuses, offering students access to housing support, food pantries, financial aid, mental health resources, and mentorship. Whether you are a student or a student ally, join A²MEND to help be the community you want to see on college campuses. You CAN accomplish your dreams; you just need to know where to start. Learn more at ICanGoToCollege.com.

Watch the full Executive Board Member Interviews here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4nY0DVQODTimGPB_1f1zFCgqdEqWUHVn

Student Rights ensure equitable placement—meaning you can enroll directly in transfer-level English and math courses without the need for standardized placement tests.

Hear how a new California Legislative Law, that went into effect on January 1, 2025, will allow Black students to identify colleges that are uniquely committed to their success in and out of the classroom. In part two of this special panel episode, hear once again from educational leaders Dr. Abdimalik Buul, Dr. Luke Wood, Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson, Pamela Haynes, and Joya Miller, on what this monumental designation means to students statewide.  

Hear how a new California Legislative Law will allow Black students to identify colleges that are uniquely committed to their success in and out of the classroom. This special two-part panel episode discusses the new Black Serving Institution (BSI) designation that goes into effect in January 2025 and the impact it will have statewide. 

You CAN accomplish your dreams; you just need to know where to start.

Hear how a groundbreaking program is changing lives for California college students who want to make a difference in the world around them. Through College Corps, students can earn up to $10,000 for their education and gain hands-on work experience that makes a difference.

Are you curious about Historically Black Colleges and Universities and how they could be part of your journey? Picture a place where you’re embraced by a powerful sense of community, where your dreams are nurtured with care, and where you have your own support team. That is the essence of HBCUs. Known for their small class sizes, dedicated mentors, and vibrant alumni networks, HBCUs open doors to lifelong connections and opportunities across the country. In this episode, we toured with the annual HBCU Caravan, a series of events at 11 community colleges in California where students could receive personal access to transfer admissions counselors and HBCU representatives. Some students even get accepted on the spot. With the California Community Colleges’ guaranteed transfer agreements, you have a direct route to dozens of HBCUs across the nation. Your dreams are closer than you think—community college is just the beginning! Learn more at ICanGoToCollege.com.

Ready to unlock your future? In this episode, discover two life-changing programs that are reshaping the path to a 4-year university for community college students like you. With the ADT program “Associate Degree for Transfer”, you can seamlessly transfer to a CSU, HBCU, or private university in California. And with TAG, “Transfer Admission Guarantee”, you can secure admission to several UC campuses. Why wait? Save time, money, get guaranteed spots, and start building the future you deserve. Your dreams are closer than you think—community college is just the beginning! Learn more at ICanGoToCollege.com.

Hear how one organization is making a significant impact in the lives of Black community college students. The Nandi Organization provides mentorship, scholarships, and professional development to help Black females succeed academically and beyond. Nandi is a powerful force for change and is dedicated to helping women achieve their goals. You CAN accomplish your dreams; you just need to know where to start. Learn more at ICanGoToCollege.com.

For students raised in the foster care system, the inaccessibility of basic needs like food and housing, lack of support, financial instability, and academic challenges too often can stand in the way of students achieving their dreams through a positive higher education journey. The California Community Colleges system is facing this challenge head-on and is giving hope to foster students across the state. We’ll explore the impact of the NextUp program and how it helps foster students rise above. You CAN accomplish your dreams; you just need to know where to start. Learn how and enroll today at ICanGoToCollege.com.