Beyond The Classroom

Stan State
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Education
  • Updated Bimonthly

Beyond the Classroom highlights the journeys of Stan State alumni as they share how they launched their careers, navigated life after college, and found their path beyond graduation. Through real stories, advice, and lessons learned, the podcast gives students insight into different career possibilities and the steps they can take now to prepare for what comes next. Focused on inspiration, guidance, and community,  Beyond the Classroom helps connect students to the experiences of alumni who have successfully made the transition from college to the workforce and beyond.   Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

  1. Sep 2

    Create, Connect, Grow: Naomi Carrera on Turning Experience Into Opportunity

    What can happen when the skills you develop in college meet the courage to put yourself out there? Stan State alumna Naomi Carrera ’23 joins Beyond the Classroom to talk about her journey from business administration student and campus content creator to co-founder of 922 Social Management, a social media management business serving organizations throughout the Central Valley. Carrera earned her degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and gained hands-on experience creating content while working with Stan State’s Communications and Marketing team. She credits that experience with strengthening her communication, organization and relationship-building skills — all of which became important tools when she started her own business.  In the episode, Carrera talks about finding opportunities in an emerging industry, approaching potential clients, building customized proposals, networking in the community and learning to move beyond her comfort zone. She also offers practical advice to students interested in content creation or entrepreneurship: start building a portfolio now, attend events and clubs, create with friends, approach local businesses and use accessible tools such as smartphones and Canva to practice your craft.  Most importantly, Carrera reminds aspiring entrepreneurs that building a business requires passion, persistence and a willingness to embrace the ups and downs along the way. In this episode:  Turning campus employment into career experience  Building a portfolio before graduation  Networking when you’re naturally shy  Finding opportunities in emerging industries  Developing relationships with clients  Using social media to support local businesses  Making the leap into entrepreneurship  Finding the right collaborators and support system  Learning by creating, experimenting and doingProduced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

  2. Jul 27

    Finding Your Why: Samantha Johnson on Sociology, Service and Civic Engagement

    In this episode, we welcome Samantha Johnson, a Stan State alumna who graduated in 2021 with a degree in sociology and now works as a field representative for California Assembly District 13. Samantha discusses how her Stan State experience helped her grow personally and professionally, from living in the residence halls and joining the Sociology Club to working at the Warrior Cross Cultural Center and serving as a resident assistant. She also reflects on studying abroad in Spain, navigating college as a first-generation student and learning to step outside her comfort zone. Now working in public service, Samantha serves communities including Tracy, Stockton, French Camp and Mountain House. She talks about the importance of civic engagement, constituent services and helping community members access resources through state agencies. Listeners will hear Samantha’s advice on networking, finding internships, cold messaging professionals, saying yes to meaningful opportunities and identifying the values that can guide a career path. She also shares why sociology prepared her to work with diverse communities and why public service is rooted in empathy, communication and accountability. Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

  3. Jun 3

    Running the Numbers: Isaac McCrimon on Accounting, Internships and Career Pivots

    Stan State alumnus Isaac McCrimon returns to campus for a conversation about career growth, public service and the lessons that happen outside the syllabus. Isaac graduated in 2022 with a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. Today, he works as an administrative analyst in San Francisco, where his role connects human resources, employee support, problem-solving and public service. In this episode, Isaac discusses his path from the Bay Area to Stan State, his experience as a student-athlete, the importance of internships and networking, and how an unexpected layoff became a turning point in his career. He also shares practical advice for students pursuing accounting, business, human resources or public service careers. In this episode:  Why he switched from entrepreneurship to accounting  The internship that helped him realize he was on the right path  How networking led to his first professional opportunity  What he learned from being laid off early in his career  Why campus involvement and faculty relationships matter Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

  4. Apr 6

    From Music to Messaging: Kristina Stamper’s Journey Beyond the Classroom

    What does a music degree prepare you to do? In this episode, Kristina Stamper shows that the answer can be much broader than many students realize. A Stan State alumna and current Director of Communications and Creative Services, Kristina talks about how her experience as a music major helped her develop skills in communication, creativity, empathy and storytelling. She shares how professors and mentors encouraged her to think beyond traditional career paths, and how student employment on campus opened doors to professional opportunities in higher education. Kristina also offers thoughtful advice for students navigating uncertainty, imposter syndrome and pressure to define success too narrowly. From seeking out mentors to saying yes to growth opportunities, she reminds listeners that careers often evolve in unexpected but meaningful ways. In this episode, listeners will hear about:  How mentorship helped shape Kristina’s path  Why career journeys do not have to be linear  The value of student employment and campus involvement  How the arts build transferable career skills  Advice for students on networking, confidence and defining successProduced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

  5. 05/15/2025

    The Heart of Basic Needs: Food, Housing and Care with Alexa Aguirre Sanchez & Leticia Caballero

    In this episode of Taking Care of U, host Lesley Cantu talks with Alexa Aguirre Sanchez and Leticia Caballero from the Basic Needs program at Stan State. Together, they break down the essential services available to students — from food assistance and housing support to wellness workshops and support for parenting students. They share real stories, practical advice, and the driving passion behind the work they do every day to uplift the Warrior community. Resources Mentioned: Warrior Food Pantry (Turlock & Stockton)Warrior Clothing Closet (Turlock)CalFresh Assistance & CalFresh Healthy LivingFood Box Distributions (Turlock)Emergency Grants & Temporary HousingBasic Needs for Little WarriorsStudent Volunteer & Donation OpportunitiesLinks: Learn more: csustan.edu/basic-needsContact Basic Needs: basicneeds@csustan.eduFollow on Instagram: @stanstate_basicneedsProduced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

  6. 02/03/2025

    Unity in Diversity: Empowering Undocumented Students with Guillermo Metelin Bock

    In this episode of "Taking Care of U," host Lesley Cantu dives deep into the services and support available for undocumented students at Stan State. Joined by Guillermo Metelin Bock, the Undocumented Student Services Lead, this episode sheds light on available resources, the personal and professional challenges faced by undocumented students and the initiatives aimed at fostering an inclusive campus environment. The discussion also addresses broader systemic issues such as immigration policies and the American Dream, underscoring the power of community and resilience. Undocumented Student Services website: csustan.edu/undocumented-student-services Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

  7. 11/19/2024

    Housing & Residential Life: Creating Community on Campus with Katie Billiet

    Enjoy this discussion between host Lesley Cantu and our guest Katie Billiet, Communications & Occupancy Management Specialist at Stan State's Residential Life Village. Join the pair as they discuss the pivotal role of on-campus housing plays in enhancing the student experience, how living on-campus offers a range of academic and social benefits, and the importance of fostering a supportive community that nurtures both personal growth and academic excellence. Learn about the unique services and amenities provided at Stan State and discover why students who live on campus often perform better academically and build meaningful relationships that last beyond their college years. Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

  8. 08/28/2024

    The Student Health Center: Navigating Health Services with Taylor Whittington

    Enjoy this discussion between host Lesley Cantu and our guest Taylor Whittington, Ed.D, CPS, Health Educator at Stan State's Student Health Center.    Join the pair as they explore how the Student Health Center supports the overall well-being of students during their college years. From comprehensive primary and specialized care to preventive health measures, the health center ensures students have access to essential healthcare services. This episode dives into the telehealth options, on-site laboratory and pharmacy, and the crucial role these services play in making healthcare easily accessible for students.  This week's guest: Taylor Whittington, Ed.D, CPS: Health Educator  Website: https://www.csustan.edu/student-health-center Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing, edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.

See All (19)

About

Beyond the Classroom highlights the journeys of Stan State alumni as they share how they launched their careers, navigated life after college, and found their path beyond graduation. Through real stories, advice, and lessons learned, the podcast gives students insight into different career possibilities and the steps they can take now to prepare for what comes next. Focused on inspiration, guidance, and community,  Beyond the Classroom helps connect students to the experiences of alumni who have successfully made the transition from college to the workforce and beyond.   Produced by the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Information

  • Creator
    Stan State
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Beyond The Classroom
  • Show Website
    Beyond The Classroom