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# Podcast: Ep. 03 Why not go to college?
- URL: https://rioprogress.org/ep3/
- Published: 2025-09-07T16:59:39.000Z
- Updated: 2025-09-17T00:03:49.000Z
- Description: Episode 3 | RioProgress The Podcast
- Author: Maria Fernanda Martinez
- Tags: Podcast

In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus and Noel Rangel, continues the conversation on what it means to pursue higher education while navigating financial, cultural, and personal challenges. From FAFSA and the hidden costs of college, to learning the “academic language” of higher ed, Maria & Noel reflects on the realities students face and the strategies that can make the journey more sustainable.

Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: [rioprogress.org](https://rioprogress.org/?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com)

**Relevant Links:**  
Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep3

Resources:

- [Apply Yourself… to Higher Ed](https://rioprogress.org/college-prep/?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com) — includes FAFSA support as part of their cohort program
- [Navigating Semester 1: Advice for First-Years](https://rioprogress.org/getting-ready-for-college/?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com) — general guidance on navigating college resources and advising

**Support our work:**  
Donate: [rioprogress.org/donate](https://rioprogress.org/donate)  
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► For partnership inquiries: **info@rioprogress.org**