Campus Guide

Dear Chico State Families,

Welcome to Chico, one of the few true college towns in the nation. Your student is embarking on a journey that will include exposure to and involvement in all the elements that make Chico such a special place. We are excited to begin a new school year and we are glad that you and your family will be a part of it.

Dear Chico State Parents and Family Members:

On behalf of the Chico State Parent Advisory Council, I welcome you to California State University, Chico. We are proud to have an active council in which parents can participate and contribute to the education, health, and safety of Chico State students.

Understanding CSU, Chico’s nine graduation requirements is essential for selecting appropriate courses. Advisors in the Office of Advising and Orientation can help students understand the requirements and monitor their academic progress. Here is a brief explanation of each requirement and a few specific tips about how to pick classes (particularly for a student’s first semester).
Note: See page 122 in the 2007-2009 University Catalog for more details.

1. Total Units
   120–124 (BA)
   120–128 (BS)
   132 (BS Engr or BFA)

Mark your calendars for Getting Connected scheduled for Thursday, August 21 – Sunday, August 24, 2008. We are currently busy planning Getting Connected activities.

Getting Connected is a celebration of your presence as a new member of this community. So, mark your calendars and prepare to embark on your Chico experience! Our theme, Getting Connected, is our way of suggesting the importance of making useful and early connections in our community. It is our desire that you connect with the many resources that are available to you:

The counselor for career exploration and planning is available by appointment to assist students and alumni in identifying majors, careers, and graduate programs. Students unclear about their career goals and how to identify them should consider registering for a career assessment prior to talking with a career counselor.

Technology is woven into the fabric of education at CSU, Chico. Students will use computers in many of their classes and are expected to have their own computer (or easy access to a computer) while off campus. The Chico State Connection portal (http://portal.csuchico.edu) provides a single point of access for campus electronic resources, including online registration, grades, e-mail, and the learning management system (Blackboard Vista).

Student life at California State University, Chico doesn’t end in the classroom. Chico State offers 240 student clubs and organizations. By becoming involved in co-curricular activities, students can gain a sense of belonging and better enjoy a well-rounded college experience.

Chico State’s Student Health Service, an outpatient clinic located in the Student Health Center on Warner Street, is staffed by physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Services for enrolled students include treatment of acute conditions, injuries, and illnesses. Student Health also offers a family planning program and has an in-house licensed pharmacy, an x-ray department, and a federally certified, high-complexity laboratory.

Parking
Buying a parking permit is expensive and does not guarantee a spot (we call it a “hunting license”). To avoid some frustration, students can ride a bike or use the Chico Area Transit System, which is free to students. Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the fresh air.

Books
The lines at the A.S. Bookstore seem endless during the first week of school. Students can order textbooks early through Textlink at http://www.asbookstore.com/textbooks.

Housing