In this episode of TransferTALK, Jay speaks with Dr. Su Jin Jez, CEO of California Competes, about how higher education can better serve underserved college-bound communities.
These include students who are ready and capable of pursuing higher education but remain disconnected from the system due to systemic barriers, lack of access, or institutional blind spots.
Dr. Jez brings both vision and personal insight as a first-generation college student who now leads policy and advocacy for equity in California and beyond.
Supporting the Students Higher Ed Often Misses
This episode is part two in a powerful conversation with Drs. Jez and Bernhard.
They discuss the urgent need to design systems that intentionally serve non-traditional, transfer-ready, and underserved college-bound communities.
These students—often adult learners, working professionals, or students of color—are eager to engage but frequently lack clear pathways or personalized support from institutions.
Jay is encouraged by California Competes’ deep commitment to creating structural change.
Their work is a national model for what’s possible when strategy, policy, and student voice come together to address equity in higher education.
Why the Future of Higher Ed Depends on These Audiences
For colleges and universities facing enrollment challenges, the future lies in expanding access to these often-ignored groups.
Without engaging underserved college-bound communities, institutions risk missing their best opportunity for sustainable enrollment growth.
Dr. Jez provides a clear call to action: colleges must break down silos between the registrar, advising, and enrollment teams, while investing in credit evaluation tools, outreach strategies, and intentional support models.
DegreeSight’s Role in Creating Access and Alignment
At DegreeSight, we help institutions take meaningful action.
Our consulting services and credit evaluation tools are designed to support student-centered processes that empower the very students Dr. Jez advocates for.
Whether you’re working to build a better bridge between enrollment and the registrar, or streamline your transfer pathways, we offer the tools and strategies needed to make real change.
The health and future of higher education depends on a deep understanding of who has been left behind.
Drs. Jez and Bernhard offer an essential blueprint — one every college leader should hear. Tune in, reflect, and commit to creating a more inclusive future for underserved college-bound communities.