Tips for Success

“Tips for Success” will point you in the right direction for your first year - and beyond.

1. Academic Requirements

The first place to start is to have an understanding of CSU, Chico’s academic requirements.

In order to graduate from California State University, Chico you will need to earn a minimum 120 units or up to 132 units depending on your major. These units are comprised of 3 main areas:

1. General Education and other University Course Requirements
2. Major Coursework
3. Electives

The pie chart shows the breakdown of these courses for the average student. These three areas are structured around a framework of nine graduation requirements described in the “Bachelor’s Degree Requirements” section of the University Catalog which are the building blocks of your degree program.

The General Education Program requires students to complete 48 units of coursework spread across several categories. This coursework offers you the opportunity to learn about a wide variety of disciplines and explore potential majors. General Education balances the in-depth study in your major by strengthening your basic skills and increasing your understanding and awareness of issues and aspirations of people throughout the world.

As you plan your program consider those General Education courses which are required for majors of interest. It is possible for one course to meet several requirements— for example some major requirements may be “double counted” with general education requirements. See an advisor for assistance and details.

If you are considering a high-unit major keep in mind that there are modifications to General Education. Please consult with an Academic Advisor for more information.

Other University requirements include:

Cultural Diversity Requirement

The Cultural Diversity Requirement is comprised of two areas of study: An Ethnic Studies course and a Non-Western Studies course. Please note that the Cultural Diversity requirements may be fulfilled (or “double counted”) within General Education.

American Institutions Requirements

The American Institutions Requirements is comprised of two areas of study: U.S. History (HIST 130) and U.S. Constitution and California State and Local Government (POLS 155).

Major

A major is comprised of a group of related course work that focuses on a field of study. Major requirements range from between 30 and 109 units. Your major will allow you to focus on a particular area of interest in order to deepen your knowledge of that field. View the list of majors offered at Chico.

If you’re deciding on a major or would like to change your major you will need to complete the UNDERGRADUATE Declaration or Change of Matriculation form

As a declared student you will increase your opportunity to receive information about new courses offered in the major, changes in schedules, and internships and job opportunities related to your major. Also, you will have the opportunity to participate in student organizations and clubs which include opportunities for leadership, volunteerism, professional development, and socializing with others who have similar career plans.

Electives

The remaining component of your study is referred to as Elective units. This portion of your course work is outside the requirements needed for general education and your major.

This is where you have considerable freedom to select courses which satisfy your individual interests or needs. Some examples include activities in music, physical education, participating in Community Action Volunteers in Education (C.A.V.E.) or including a Minor. Minors may strengthen your undergraduate program, increase employment opportunities, and broaden your intellectual perspectives.

2. Go to Class and Participate!

It is easy to daydream or even skip class all together using such excuses as boredom, lack of relevancy and/or interest.

Well not everything in life is interesting and college is not a matter of you being entertained. Truth is, it’s up to you to find meaning in your classes. The more you engage yourself in a subject, the more interesting it can become.

Communicate in the classroom!

There are no dumb questions concerning subject matter. If you don't know or don't understand something, chances are several of your peers don't either. Learning to ask questions is a real skill and you need to develop it.

If you learn to handle the basics and show a pattern of good attendance and participation, you will develop the essential habits of collegiate success.

Challenge yourself…make the most of your experience!

3. Meet with Professors throughout the semester

Faculty are people and should not be looked upon as the "enemy" or little tin gods. They are the individuals who will evaluate your work, supply references, and guide your intellectual development. Should you develop a bond of friendship, you will find they are invaluable during the rough periods of your academic career.

Utilize professors’ office hours! This is a time where you can discuss ideas generated in class, clarify assignments, review questions missed on exams, and share common enthusiasms with professors. This is not only a time for you to get to know your professors; it is also a time for them to get to know you!

Professors at CSU, Chico are dedicated to students’ success. Fear them not!

4. Meet with an Academic Advisor at least once per semester

Meeting with Academic Advisors at least once per semester will help guide you to formulate your educational plans and to translate your goals, interests, and career aspirations into an effective educational experience.

Your advisor will help you understand the academic requirements that give structure to your study.

Meet with a staff advisor regularly to plan each semester's academic program and to explore how your interests can lead to the choice of a major and even a career. View Get to Know Your Advisor for additional information.

5. Use your time wisely

One of the secrets of being a successful student is good time management skills. Time management doesn’t mean eliminating your social life. However, if you do not learn to plan properly and balance your activities, you run the risk of flunking out. Keep in mind that for every hour you are in the classroom plan on a minimum of 2 hours of studying outside the classroom.

The saying, "I work best under pressure" is a silly excuse for the lethargic at heart. Your lack of foresight is not going to be your advisor's or professor's emergency.

Check out the links below to learn more about managing your time:

• Suggestions to Help You Plan Your Semester
• Student Learning Center: Time Management Workshops.
• http://www.howtostudy.org/resources/proc/index.htm

6. Take advantage of your academic resources

One of the most useful skills you can develop is the ability to ask for help when you need it.

Who You Gonna Call will list some of the offices on campus that are here to help you... all you have to do is ask!

7. Explore Majors

Many students begin their college careers undecided as to what area of study they want to pursue.

It is not uncommon for students to change their major more than once. One way to ensure a successful academic career is to be in a major that matches your interests and career goals. Starting with your first semester, and during each semester thereafter, select and evaluate your courses with the thought in mind that you are exploring your interests and your options.

Visit our Major Exploration (site for tools that will help you explore areas of interest.

8. Become Involved on Campus and in the Community

A successful college career includes participating in activities outside the classroom.

By combining the skills you develop through co-curricular involvement and the knowledge gained in the classroom, you will be much better prepared in exploring and developing your full potential. Whether it is joining a club on campus or volunteering in the community the experience you gain will be with you for the rest of your life!

Check out our Become Involved page for more information.

9. Keep in Touch! Email your parents.

It may sound silly, but your parents can prove to be your best support.

They want to know honestly and truthfully just how you are doing, that your roommate snores, borrows your clothes, your professors want 500 page term papers complete with annotated bibliographies, and that the food sustains life. They may not know how to help other than by listening, but that act alone is essential to your well-being.