In this episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, host David Alvarez, sits down with former California Speaker Emeritus John A. Pérez and U.S. Consul General in Tijuana Christopher Teal to explore the powerful intersection of education, diplomacy, and economic opportunity between California and Mexico. From dual-degree programs to binational workforce development, this conversation highlights how cross-border collaboration is reshaping the future of higher education.

Together, they discuss the importance of supporting first-generation students, expanding access to affordable education, and creating innovative pathways that prepare young people for a global economy.

With stories of resilience, policy insights, and a shared vision for the future, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about education, opportunity, and building stronger U.S.–Mexico ties.

Some notable moments from this episode: 

00:23 – Welcoming Speaker Pérez to the Conversation

01:29 – A New Model: Dual Enrollment and Binational Education

02:55 – Beyond Bridges: Building True Integration Across Borders

05:14 – California’s Higher Education as a Path to Mobility

06:29 – From Study Abroad to Dual Degrees

08:23 – First-Generation Students and Access to Opportunity

11:23 – Geographic Inequality in Higher Education

13:38 – Merced’s Surprising PhD Pipeline

15:47 – The Middle Class Scholarship and Affordability

18:06 – Signing MOUs and Building Momentum for the Future