In this episode, I am delighted to welcome Dr. Mandy Pacheco to the podcast. Crossing paths with Mandy was a huge stroke of luck, thanks to our mutual friend Michelle. Once we connected, I knew I had to have her on the podcast. Mandy’s years of experience in higher education as well as her role as a flex-schooling parent provides her with the perfect blend of insight and expertise from both perspectives. During our conversation, we discuss the importance of experiential learning and why consent in education is critical to the success of our kids. Mandy provides valuable suggestions for parents whose kids aren’t in love with learning. And you won’t want to miss Mandy’s advice for parents of incoming college students. I continue to learn from Mandy every time I speak with her and I’m sure you will learn from her too.
About Dr. Mandy Pacheco
Dr. Mandy Pacheco has made a career of helping people understand themselves and others better. For the past nine years, she has taught for the Interdisciplinary Studies program at the University of Central Florida, an innovative degree that encourages students to develop a unique program of study specific to their interests and future goals. Prior to this role, she served as the Interim Associate Director and instructor for UCF’s Office of Experiential Learning, the Assistant Director of Career Services at Stetson University, and the coordinator of an apprenticeship program for Siemens Corporation. Outside academia, she has founded both a consulting company and a nonprofit organization, served as a corporate recruiter, taught English to children in China, and organized a multitude of community organizations and events. She believes experience can be our greatest teacher and encourages her students to move outside the walls of the classroom to discover and develop their gifts.
Dr. Pacheco holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware, a Master’s degree in Counselor Education from the University of Virginia, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida.
Episode Highlights
- The importance of experiential learning
- The relationship between internship and graduation rates
- Exploring careers through interdisciplinary studies
- Consent in education
- How education takes the fun out of learning
- Ask your kids what THEY want to learn
- Volunteering or a part-time job is a great way to learn outside the classroom
- Informational interviews and shadowing can be helpful
- It’s about taking action, not just mindset
- College experience matters more than college major
- Starting career exploration early is key
- Mandy’s advice for parents of incoming college students