Ep. 46 A Student's Journey with Daniel Sestiaga and Ben Richmond

In this episode of A Student’s Journey (ASJ), we explore what it really takes for Tribal College students to transition from their community college to a major university.  A Student’s Journey (ASJ) is a year-long program that includes a five-week, on-campus summer experience at the University of Arizona. Using an experiential, internship-based approach, ASJ helps students navigate the complex process of transferring to a four-year university while providing mentorship, community, and a sense of belonging. Logo of A Student’s Journey program Daniel Sestiaga Jr. is a member of the Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe of Arizona. He is the son of Daniel Sr. and the late Rosie Sestiaga. His paternal grandparents are Carlotta and the late Julio Sestiaga, and his maternal grandparents are Rosie Montoya, the late Tomas Montoya, and the late Virgil Jack. Daniel currently serves as the Assistant Director of the Indigenous Resilience Center (IRes) at the University of Arizona, where he directs the operations of the Center and provides on-site leadership for faculty, professional staff, and student teams. His leadership has contributed to impactful initiatives such as climate and justice symposiums, environmental health forums, student engagement programs, and culturally grounded research collaborations. Beyond his role at IRes, Daniel is an adjunct instructor at Tohono O’odham Community College, where he teaches courses in Community and Public Health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Public Management and Policy and his Master of Public Health from the University of Arizona. Photo of Daniel Sestiaga, IRes Center Assistant Director Ben Richmond serves as the Manager of Undergraduate Education Initiatives in the University of Arizona’s Division of Undergraduate Education in the Office of the Provost. He earned his BS in Public Health and MPH from the University of Arizona and is currently pursuing a PhD in Higher Education. Ben’s research interest is in understanding the social and cultural barriers students face in pursuing higher education and developing higher education pathways for students. With this research focus, Ben has developed programs that target students throughout their academic journey and use culturally anchored curriculum to increase students’ knowledge and skills, improve students’ self-efficacy in pursuing higher education, increase sense of belonging on a university campus, and help students navigate campus systems. Photo of Ben Richmond, Manager of Undergraduate Education Initiatives in the University of Arizona’s Division of Undergraduate Education So, what happens after community college for students from rural and tribal communities? In this episode, we explore the powerful transition from a small, close-knit community college to the fast-paced world of a major university. Through this heartfelt conversation with Daniel and Ben Richmond, we uncover the barriers these students face—financial strain, homesickness, cultural shifts, and academic pressures—and the incredible resilience that carries them through. A Student’s Journey is more than just a program; it’s a lifeline. Designed to guide and support students from rural tribal community colleges, it connects them with mentorship, resources, and belonging as they continue their education. Whether you’re a student preparing for your next step, an educator supporting transfer pathways, or a donor passionate about Native student success, this episode shines a light on how programs like ASJ are changing lives and empowering future leaders from Tribal Colleges across the nation. Graphic created by T. Andrew Here is a brief version of the interview that offers key highlights and insights from the full conversation.