I've been receiving many messages to go into more detail than I already have, so here's a list of…read morethings to consider before you think about attending CST:
1. Even when diligently reading CST's janky iPad's ten module books (oh yes, you are forced, by CST to buy an iPad, regardless if you already have an iPad or laptop--it is *part of your tuition*), you are still highly unprepared to set foot in a classroom environment.
2. From the very start you are most likely behind in your hours as they are so demanding and your placement is sketchy. You quickly realize: you = free labor = should not be legal = but it is.
3. There are some good "mentors" but most are unclear about the technology that is *required* and do not hold PhDs (as university professors must).
4. There is no "fast way" to get a teaching credential. It's a lot of work, practice, saint-like patience, understanding laws, different districts policies, and how to communicate with administration--all things that are crucial and that CST does NOT prepare you for.
5. I would recommend, if you truly want to get your teaching credential, to inquire at your local university (CST again, is not a university--it just uses the Cal State name because they *rent* an office there). The price is about the same as a university and you are not forced to buy anything (ie. an iPad)
6. This should be #1, but get your CSET MS test passed and out of the way *before* you continue your education (anywhere) to be an educator. The CSET Multiple Subject test consists of three sections, and is crazy intense. If you've been out of school for a bit--it requires a lot of studying and practice. It also may take you multiple attempts. I recommend the Cliff Notes CSET book, study.com, and looking up topics you don't understand on YouTube.
7. I totally get the freedom of taking classes online and CST romanticizes this, but I'm telling you--all of my online classmates and I thought it was a joke/scam, to get you to pay them, only to work for free.
8. If you're still considering it, I would suggest doing as much research as you can on the instructors, head of staff, and searching for honest reviews. Google "CST scam", "CST BBB", etc. CST has paid google to show up first in your search results, so add a negative (or other word behind CST) such as: scam, review, responses, rip off, complaints, etc.
9. Professors at a university (more than likely) will be better mentors than your retired-teacher-side-hustle-advisor. No disrespect to retired teachers, but professors at at university bring an entire wealth of knowledge, activity, and one on one face time IRL, that the CST advisory staff absolutely does not. Especially "Dr. Black". I've never met someone so stand offish, rude, and unhelpful--especially in a main advisory role. Google him as well (or whomever the head of staff is for you) and you will see that CST is just his side-hustle as well.
In his blog (look it up) his complains multiple times about LAUSD, but (again) he will send you there without blinking an eye.
10. You do you. Just like teaching students, there is no one-size-fits-all. I recommend substitute teaching at a district first, to see what grade level(s) you flourish at. As John Dewey said, "You have to learn by doing" BUT this way *you are learning and getting paid*, not paying CST to work and learning what not to do.
11. Finally, in any teaching credential program, you will have to obtain clinical experience hours (ie. working for free). The hours increase as your education progresses. It is not easy, but required by the state of CA.
12. I wish you all the best! Teaching is a calling, purpose, and a special gift. It is one of the noblest professions. You *have to have* a love for wanting to make a difference in student's lives and you have to have a deep understanding that it will be a different experience and challenge every. single. day.