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

Send us a text

 

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 explores the emotional rollercoaster that comes with starting a new school year or trying something new. Also, don't miss out on the announcement of a full tuition scholarship for STEM students at Houston Christian University. Join us for valuable insights and encouragement to embrace new challenges with confidence.


00:00 Introduction: Embracing New Beginnings

01:27 Personal Experience: Hosting My First Event

03:57 Facing Fears: The Journey to Overcome Anxiety

06:43 3 Tips for Confronting New Experiences

11:29 Scholarship Announcement: Opportunities for STEM Students

12:24 Conclusion: Embrace the Journey Ahead

Scholarship mentioned: For more information, go here.

Send us a text

 

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

Send us a text

 

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"

Building Connections: Connor's Journey from College to a Career in Sports

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

Send us a text

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

Send us a text

 

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/

Send us a text

 

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

Send us a text

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/

Send us a text

 

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

Send us a text

 

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 [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Episode 78: Importance of Letters of Recommendation
• Episode 79: Creating a Standout Portfolio

Get in Touch:

• Email: [email protected]
• 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!

Send us a text

 

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"