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Education Chat

Education Chat

By Education Chat

Listening to and acting on student insights is critical to advancing educational equity in the Inland Empire and beyond. In this podcast, GIA Intern Natalie Hinton engages in candid conversations with students throughout the region, cultivating meaningful discussions about lived experiences, successes, and opportunities for growth.
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Celebrating and Supporting LGBTQ+ Students

Education ChatMay 08, 2024

00:00
20:52
Celebrating and Supporting LGBTQ+ Students

Celebrating and Supporting LGBTQ+ Students

Your Education Chat host, Natalie Hinton, celebrates the month of April, also known as "Gaypril". This month is dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community by highlighting the experiences that LGBTQ+ students have endured. She chats with Ross Darlings, a student president of the Pride Club at Crafton Hills College. They discuss how they learned to accept their identity, how it has affected them as a student, and what changes need to be made on their campus in order to provide more support to the community. Almost 17% of all graduate and undergraduate students identify with a sexual identity other than straight, with 2% of those students identifying as transgender. Despite almost one-fifth of all college students belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, they can still face discrimination at their schools from either other students or faculty. Natalie and Ross address how this unfair treatment can negatively impact how a student performs, and provide tips on how to be a better ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Even if you are not a member of the LGBTQ+ community, this episode provides a plethora of tips and helpful insight on how to navigate college life as either an ally or a member of the community. This informational episode will leave you with a firsthand perspective and insight on how we can celebrate and support this prideful group of students. Stay tuned on the last Wednesday of every month for the next installment of Education Chat! Follow our socials! TikTok:   / educationchatgia   Instagram:   / educationchatgia   Website: https://inlandempiregia.org/education...

May 08, 202420:52
Revisting the Realities of Student Parents

Revisting the Realities of Student Parents

In the second episode of Education Chat's fourth season, your host Natalie Hinton revisits the important topic of supporting student parents in their educational pursuits. She chats with two parent learners, a father of three studying graphic design, and a mother of four studying business administration. They allow us to get a firsthand account as they discuss the challenges they face, the strategies they use, and the milestones they have achieved, all while balancing the responsibility of parenthood alongside the demand of higher education. Parent learners are one of the most resilient types of students, with them typically having higher grade point averages compared to other people in post-secondary school. These student parents also make up every 1 in 5 college students in California, but can still be under represented on their campuses. Natalie and her guests discuss the resources that current and future student parents can utilize, and what other forms of support they need in order to be successful. Whether you're a student parent yourself, a supporter, or simply curious about the realities of maintaining both education and parenthood, this inspiring episode will leave you with new perspectives and insights on this large group of learners. Stay tuned on the last Wednesday of every month for the next installment of Education Chat!

Mar 29, 202433:47
Nutrition and Eating Well as a Student

Nutrition and Eating Well as a Student

After a 3-month hiatus, Education Chat is BACK with a fresh, new feel and a brand, new host! In this debut episode of Season 4, our host Natalie Hinton solidifies the importance of nutrition and eating well through chatting with other college students about their eating habits, interviewing a professional school district nutritionist, and visiting an on-campus food pantry. Whether you're a student striving to make healthier choices, or simply curious about the idea that what you eat can affect your academic success, this episode is sure to provide you with resources to make a change, as well as educate, entertain, and inspire you. Until next time, be sure to like, share, and subscribe in order to stay tuned for the next episode of Education Chat!

Mar 04, 202429:39
Exploring the Impact of Extracurriculars on Student Development

Exploring the Impact of Extracurriculars on Student Development

Welcome to "Education Chat," the student-focused podcast that brings you real-life experiences and valuable advice from our cohosts, Alyssa and Alysha. In this special episode, we dive into a topic that's close to every student's heart - "Exploring the Impact of Extracurriculars on Student Development." Alyssa and Alysha are passionate advocates of extracurricular activities and have actively participated in a diverse range of clubs, sports, arts, and community service projects throughout their academic journeys. They are here to share their personal stories, insights, and the valuable life lessons they've gained through their involvement in extracurriculars. Whether you're a high school or college student, parent, or educator, this episode offers valuable insights and advice from two individuals who have truly embraced the power of extracurricular activities in shaping their personal and academic growth. Join us for an engaging and inspiring conversation with Alyssa and Alysha as they share their wisdom on the profound impact of extracurriculars on student development. Their stories will motivate you to explore new opportunities, develop your passions, and make the most of your student experience. Tune in to "Education Chat" and embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment through the world of extracurricular activities.

Aug 01, 202335:28
The Impact of Student-Teacher Relationships: Stories of Inspiring Mentorship in Education

The Impact of Student-Teacher Relationships: Stories of Inspiring Mentorship in Education

Welcome to Education Chat, where co-hosts Alyssa and Alysha delve into the profound impact of teacher-student relationships. In this heartfelt episode, they share their own personal stories, highlighting how these connections have shaped their lives and those of countless students.

Join us as we explore the transformative nature of mentorship and support in education. Discover the lasting effects these relationships can have on a student's life, as well as the incredible benefits that arise from such powerful bonds.

Through engaging anecdotes and reflective discussions, Alyssa and Alysha shed light on the inspirational moments that have touched their own educational journeys. They emphasize the importance of fostering strong connections between educators and learners, showcasing the potential for life-altering change.

Whether you're an educator seeking to deepen your impact or a student reflecting on the influential figures who guided your path, this episode is sure to resonate. Uncover the invaluable advantages that come with a teacher-student relationship grounded in trust, care, and inspiration.

Tune in to Education Chat and be inspired by the stories of mentorship and support that have permanently shaped lives. Discover how these connections can ignite a passion for learning, instill confidence, and empower students to reach their full potential. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that celebrates the immense power of teacher-student relationships.

Jul 12, 202324:46
Social Media in Higher Education

Social Media in Higher Education

This week Alysha and Alyssa sat down with Bianca and Marcos, two members of Lets Go To College - A student-led virtual community and online hub that supports underrepresented students through college completion, early adulthood, and career planning.

May 25, 202325:00
Why Community Colleges Matter

Why Community Colleges Matter

April is Community College Month, and that presents a great opportunity to get the word out about why community colleges matter, and why public support for our colleges is more important than ever.

This week Alysha and I sat down with Dakota Erwin and Sean Ceballos, two community college students on the brink of completing their AA degree and moving on to bigger and better things. Their personal experience helps bring a spotlight to all the opportunities they have gained from attending a community college.

 In this brand new episode, we discuss the benefits, challenges, and stigmas of community college, and what ultimately made them decide that community college was right for them. To hear more, tune in to this week’s episode of Education Chat.

Apr 27, 202310:44
The Power of Student Advocacy and Leadership

The Power of Student Advocacy and Leadership

There are women's rights activists everywhere, even in unexpected places. This week Alyssa and Alysha sit down with Carla De Leon and Julian Castrejon, two high school seniors working in their community to bring out both internal and external change. Their unique viewpoints contribute to such a rich and varied outlook on the importance of women's rights. In this brand new episode, we discuss the current challenges that young women are facing, toxic masculinity, how to be better allies, as well as what can be done to better support students on campus and beyond. To hear more, tune in to this week’s episode of Education Chat.

Mar 30, 202325:57
Undocumented Students and Higher Education

Undocumented Students and Higher Education

Undocumented youth in the United States face many challenges in the education system such as the lack of financial aid, resources, and institutional regulations that discourage and constrain them from pursuing higher education. About 5 to 10% of undocumented students pursue higher education, and far fewer successfully graduate with a degree. 

This week, Alyssa sat down with Jessica Marquez, a first-generation student who obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California, Riverside. And is almost finished with her Master's in Public Administration. They discuss the barriers that undocumented students face while receiving their education as well as what can be done to better support students on campus. To hear more, tune in to this week’s episode of Education Chat.

Mar 15, 202323:07
How to Overcome the Fear of Failure

How to Overcome the Fear of Failure

Growing Inland Achievement recently conducted a research study, which focused on the decline in college enrollment rates after the pandemic. They wanted to gain a better understanding of why this was occurring, and they found a list of reasons why students weren’t enrolling. "Fear of Failure" was a key theme on why students were not making their way to the classroom.

For many of us, the "fear of failure," is something that holds us back from reaching our true potential. This week, Alyssa and Alysha are discussing why students have such a high fear of failure and where this fear might stem from. More importantly, they offer advice for students who need to overcome the fear that is holding them back. To hear more, tune in to this week’s episode of Education Chat.

Feb 23, 202316:42
Our 2022 Year In Review

Our 2022 Year In Review

As 2022 comes to a close, Alyssa and Alysha sit down to reflect on all the wonderful guests they've had on Education Chat this year. This bittersweet episode is centered around highlighting fan-favorite episodes and some of their personal favorite moments. Listen in as they look back at special guest features and recap their stories and shared experiences.

Dec 20, 202230:04
The Inspiring Journey of a First-Gen Latinx Graduate

The Inspiring Journey of a First-Gen Latinx Graduate

Our hosts Alyssa and Alysha sit down with Mimi Jollie, a first-generation Latinx graduate student. We are all dealt different cards but it is what you do with that deck that matters. In this episode, Mimi shares the value of pursuing post-secondary education and how the environment you grew up in does not define your future. Mimi's inspiring story of how she overcame the cycle of poverty is one you don't want to miss!

Dec 15, 202212:59
The Power of Leading by Example: Jessie's Story

The Power of Leading by Example: Jessie's Story

Our hosts Alyssa and Alysha sit down with Jessie Alvarez, a first-generation student at the University of Redlands, currently pursuing a B.A. in business management. Tune in as Jessie discusses the value of pursuing a post-secondary education as an adult and what ultimately made her return back to higher education. As a parent, Jessie has expressed that it is of the utmost importance to lead by example for her daughters. In hopes that when the time comes, they will be more inclined to continue on to higher education.

Dec 14, 202219:05
Why Equity Matters in the Education System

Why Equity Matters in the Education System

Our hosts Alyssa and Alysha sit down with Kristi Woods, educator, and dean of instruction at Riverside City College. Kristi discusses the value of equity in and outside of the classroom by sharing her experiences and lessons she has learned from both herself and her students. Kristi's expertise in equity enables discussion about how to better support students and their needs. Listen in to learn about the strategies Kristi is using and how you can practice equity and equality more effectively in your life.

Dec 14, 202220:54
Higher Education and Students with Disabilities

Higher Education and Students with Disabilities

Our hosts Alyssa and Alysha sit down with Adrian Hermosillo, who recently finished his master's in higher education Administration and Policy. Adrian shares his experience of suddenly being diagnosed with congenital glaucoma in high school and having to navigate life and college. Adrian's story allows for a unique perspective to discuss advice for students with disabilities, along with ways society and colleges can be more inclusive and supportive.

Dec 14, 202215:04
Strategies for a Successful Summer Break

Strategies for a Successful Summer Break

In this episode, our co-hosts Alyssa Silva and Alysha Paulino share 6 tips that can help you keep your mind sharp this summer to prepare you for the school year ahead. Listen in as they discuss strategies backed by experts to keep your brain focused and active during summer break.

Dec 13, 202208:06
Education Chat: Graduation Special

Education Chat: Graduation Special

Graduation season is upon us and we are ready to celebrate the graduating class of 2022!  In this episode, our co-hosts Alysha Paulino and Alyssa Silva are joined by guest speakers who have recently graduated. We hear from Saul Romero (CSUSB), Michael Ortiz (CSUCI), and Katarina Vidana (USC), who discuss their own unique experiences of navigating college life. Listen in as they share their struggles, achievements, future goals, and tips on how they stayed motivated to cross the finish line.

Dec 13, 202215:04
Hispanic Heritage Month Special 2022

Hispanic Heritage Month Special 2022

This Hispanic Heritage Month, our co-hosts Alysha Paulino and Alyssa Silva sit down with special guest Britney Villagran to celebrate and have an inspiring conversation on the importance of this month and why we celebrate it, to begin with. Tune in as she discusses the traditions and culture of her Guatemalan heritage and shares insightful anecdotes from her past experiences with her family and how they shaped and influenced how she lives in the present.

Dec 12, 202217:01
Life on the Spectrum: Eileen Lamb's Story

Life on the Spectrum: Eileen Lamb's Story

This Autism Awareness Month, our hosts Alyssa and Alysha sit down with Eileen Lamb, author, podcast host, and founder of The Autism Cafe. In this episode, Eileen shares her experience of being diagnosed with autism at the age of 26, after finding out that her son had autism as well. Eileen's experience and journey allow for a unique perspective to discuss advice for families getting exposed to the world of Autism, along with ways society can be more inclusive and supportive of those on the spectrum.  A big thank you to our Special Guest, Eileen Lamb! Consider following her journey on Instagram: @theautismcafe


Dec 12, 202220:17
Women's History Month Special 2022

Women's History Month Special 2022

This Women's History Month, our co-hosts Alysha Paulino and Alyssa Silva are joined by guest speakers to help elevate women's voices and bring awareness to women's needs. We hear from Pearla Badena and Mayra Silva, who share their own unique stories about being a woman. Listen in as they discuss the negative aspects of being a woman and how society can progress, as well as the positive and enduring aspects of being a woman.

Dec 12, 202217:09
The Reality of Students in Foster Care: Kevon Lee's Story

The Reality of Students in Foster Care: Kevon Lee's Story

In this episode, our co-hosts Alysha and Alyssa sit down with Kevon Lee, author, motivational speaker, activist, and educator for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Homeless Program. Kevon sits down to share his story of how he was placed in the foster care system due to being shot during a drug-related incident. Through hard work and perseverance, he was able to turn everything around. Today Kevon shares insight into his experience in the system, and how it needs to improve, and inspires listeners to not give up, understand the power of their voice, and "Go Make a Difference."  Shout out to our Special Guest, Kevon Lee! Consider following his journey on Instagram: @kevonempowers

Dec 12, 202216:10
Elevating Black Student Voices

Elevating Black Student Voices

This Black History Month, our co-hosts Alysha and Alyssa are joined by guest speakers to help elevate Black student voices. We hear from Aurene Carey, Jeanette Spiler, Joseph Love, and Kameron Pyant as they share their unique experiences as Black men and women in the education system. 

Dec 12, 202215:29
The Struggles and Successes of Student Parents

The Struggles and Successes of Student Parents

Our co-hosts Alysha and Alyssa have a conversation with Adrianna Trobaugh, a first-time mother and current student from Barstow Community College. Adrianna sits down to tell her story about becoming a mother at a young age and navigating her way into post-secondary education. She shares insight into who parent learners are, why they turn to postsecondary education, and what they ultimately want for themselves and their families.

Dec 12, 202214:01
Should Schools Go Back to Virtual Learning in 2022?

Should Schools Go Back to Virtual Learning in 2022?

With the recent surges of Covid-19 cases rising, our co-hosts Alysha and Alyssa debate whether or not schools should go back to virtual learning in 2022. They discuss the pros and cons that come with online learning and share their thoughts on the safest ways schools should go about handling this situation.

Dec 10, 202214:17
A Conversation With an Adult Learner

A Conversation With an Adult Learner

In today's episode, our hosts Alysha and Alyssa interview Aurene Carey, a current student at Barstow Community College to have a conversation centered around Adult learners. We learn why Aurene decided to return back to school and what she has learned along the way.   

Don’t forget to subscribe and join us next time, as Alysha Paulino and Alyssa Silva have authentic conversations about important student-related topics.

Dec 09, 202214:12
Is College Worth It?

Is College Worth It?

Welcome to Education Chat! A podcast for students by students.   

In today's episode, our co-hosts Alysha and Alyssa interview two people, Luis a recent CSUSB graduate, and Marlynne, a current community college student, to ask them if they believe college is worth it. Join us every second Wednesday and Friday of the month as our co-hosts, Alysha Paulino and Alyssa Silva have authentic conversations about important student-related topics.

Dec 09, 202215:39