As a first-generation college graduate and experienced educator, I understand that navigating college takes more than just knowing what classes to take. Whether you're preparing for college, finding your footing, or planning your next chapter, I'm here to help you build confidence, access opportunities, and make the most of your college experience.
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Meet Dr. Antonio Martinez Why I do this I'm a first-generation college graduate, educator, and father who believes that every student deserves access to higher education without being overwhelmed by the cost of getting there. I've spent more than a decade helping students navigate college admissions, financial aid, academic challenges, and the transition into adulthood. From serving as a college counselor and Director of Educational Opportunity Programs to coaching first-generation college students, I've dedicated my career to helping young people access opportunities they may not have known existed. I co-founded College Price Check because families deserve more than encouragement to pursue college. They deserve the knowledge, tools, and guidance to make informed financial decisions along the way. I know what it's like to navigate college without a roadmap I grew up in Richmond, California, in a single-parent household, raised by my mother and grandmother, who immigrated from El Salvador. As a first-generation college student, I didn't grow up knowing how college worked, how to navigate financial aid, or how to make sense of the many decisions that come with pursuing a degree. My journey wasn't perfect. I entered college on academic probation, but with the support of educators who believed in me, I eventually earned my bachelor's degree, master's degree, and doctorate. That experience shaped how I approach education today. I know firsthand how transformative college can be when students and families have access to the right information, meaningful relationships, and people who genuinely care about their success. I've been at this for a while Before co-founding College Price Check, I built my career supporting students at nearly every stage of their educational journey. I've served as an Associate Dean of Students, college counselor, Director of Educational Opportunity Programs, and educational leader at California State University, East Bay. Today, I serve as a College Success Coach at Making Waves Education Foundation, where I help students navigate college, develop confidence, build meaningful relationships, and work toward earning their degrees. My work has always centered on one belief: Getting students into college matters, but helping them thrive, graduate, and build meaningful lives afterward matters just as much. Where I went to college I'm a proud three-time California State University graduate. I earned my bachelor's degree in Communication from California State University, East Bay, my master's degree in Education with an emphasis in Multicultural Counseling from San Diego State University, and my Doctorate in Educational Leadership from California State University, East Bay. My educational journey has come full circle. I went from being a first-generation student navigating college to becoming an educator helping the next generation do the same. What I do for fun When I'm not supporting students and families, I'm a proud father of twin daughters who keep me learning, laughing, and growing every day. I'm passionate about fitness and staying active. You'll often find me training Muay Thai, lifting weights, or playing basketball. I also enjoy spending time with my family, exploring restaurants, and finding ways to continue growing personally and professionally.
