First Up: Brought to You by ISAC

Apr 24 2024
First Up: Brought to You by ISAC Podcast artwork

Hosted by Brian White and Jasmine Jetton-Gonzales. First Up is brought to you by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, or ISAC for short. Here on First Up, every episode will be filled with informative conversation, advice, and stories about the challenges — and triumphs — that many first generation college students and their families experience.  Join our hosts and guests as we discuss all the things we wish we knew before, during, and after college.

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Episode 22: Closing (Season 1)

Apr 24 2024 45 mins  
Welcome to the season one finale of First Up! In this episode, Brian and Jasmine are joined by Jacqueline Moreno- ISAC Chief Service Officer, and producers Joey Lieberman, and Matt Montez to recap this season. Join in on the discussion as everyone provides reflections, relives their favorite moments, and hint at plans for future season(s). We would like to give a special thanks to

Episode 21: Navigating Mental Health-Part 2

Apr 17 2024 20 mins  
This episode of First Up is part two of a two part series that dives into navigating mental health, this time through the eyes of former ISACorps Alum, Keeayla Jones, LMSW. Keeayla is currently working in the high school setting as a social behavioral counselor in the state of Texas. In this one on one conversation, Brian and Keeayla discuss the ways in which people can fight again

Episode 20: Navigating Mental Health-Part 1

Apr 10 2024 28 mins  
This episode of First Up is part one of a two part series that dives into navigating mental health through the eyes of Maggie Espinoza. Maggie is a licensed clinical professional counselor, certified integrative medicine, and certified clinical trauma professional. In this one on one conversation, Brian and Maggie discuss the unique ways in which people can heal from trauma, as wel

Episode 19: Joining the Armed Forces

Apr 03 2024 22 mins  
In this episode of First Up, Brian has a one on one conversation with first generation student and first generation veteran, Jesus Molina. Jesus is a Communications Specialist from the US Department of Veterans Affairs (Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital). Join us in the discussion, as Jesus shares some of the benefits available to veterans, as well as his personal journey navigating from

Episode 18: Finding Your Crew

Mar 28 2024 29 mins  
In this episode of First Up, Brian and Jasmine discuss the importance of friendship and finding your people in college. They are joined by Fernando Bazaldua - ISAC Gear Up Grant Manager and Account Liaison, and their very own producer, Matthew Montez -ISAC Outreach Planning and Partnership Manager, as they reminisce about their experience becoming friends and eventually working tog

Episode 17: Young Professionals

Mar 20 2024 30 mins  
Welcome to another episode of First Up! In today's episode our host are joined by Maggie West, Community Relations Strategist for the City Colleges of Chicago. Maggie is a former ISACorps member who continues to navigate in the higher education space as a young professional. We hope you find this to be an insightful episode!

*Episode 16: Spring Break is Here!

Mar 11 2024 14 mins  
In this special Spring Break episode of First Up, our host, Brian, and Jasmine, share a quick guide into staying safe during your break. If you're a college student thinking about things to do over your Spring Break, they have you covered with a few ideas!First Up will resume on March 20th. We hope you all enjoy your Spring Break and most importantly, stay safe!

Episode 15: Choosing the Right Fit School

Mar 07 2024 28 mins  
Welcome to another episode of First Up! In today's episode our host are joined by another returning guest, Paul Oliver III, to discuss how students can choose and compare what schools are a best fit for them. We would love for you to join in on the discussion, as they dive into all the important components that go into choosing the right fit school.Visit ISAC's Student Po

Episode 14: Tackling (Boundaries and Expectations)

Feb 21 2024 30 mins  
On today's episode of First Up, our host Brian and Jasmine are joined by returning guest, Brandon Perez -ISAC GearUp Specialist. The three sit down to tackle setting boundaries and fighting off expectations. These are important conversations to have with the people around you, and even with yourself at times. We hope you can take something positive away from this episode.

*Episode 13: Valentine's Day

Feb 14 2024 31 mins  
Happy Valentine's Day to all our listeners! In today's episode, Brian and Jasmine share a list of 20 self-care activities (including tips from our episode on mindfulness) that students can use to alleviate stress. Everyone combats stress differently, but we hope you can incorporate a few of these tips into your daily routine.