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Liberal Studies Advising

General procedures for making an appointment

Academic advisement is generally available Monday through Friday. Walk-in and appointment schedules vary by semester so either call or check the posted schedule outside Tehama 211.

During registration periods

The first week of each semester is by walk-in only so that we may serve students more efficiently. Students who need assistance with long term planning are asked to schedule an appointment during the non-registration periods.

During non-registration periods

Appointments are scheduled for 20-minute sessions. To ensure all students are served in a timely fashion, we ask that students arrive for their appointments on time. Those who are five or more minutes late to their appointment will be asked to reschedule.

Students may meet with any liberal studies advisor. Appointments are made on a first-come/first call basis. Please plan your appointment well in advance and call us if you need to cancel.

Peer Advising for Liberal Studies (PALS)

Knowledgeable peer advisors will be available for walk-ins and general questions throughout the semester. See posted schedule outside Tehama 211.

First-time Freshmen

In the first semester, students will be directed to complete a liberal studies online workshop. Please make an appointment to meet with an advisor during your first or second semester so that we can meet you and provide you with a major academic plan. Please read the advising syllabus (PDF)

Transfer Students:

Transfer students should meet with a liberal studies advisor as soon as their transcripts have been posted. It is important to have your transcripts evaluated for the major early so that you will know which of your courses satisfy our lower division requirements. We recommend that you meet with an advisor prior to registering for your first semester of classes. In addition, students will be directed to complete a liberal studies online workshop during their first semester. Please read the advising syllabus (PDF).

Liberal Studies Advisors

Esther L. Larocco, PhD

Liberal Studies Program Coordinator and Advisor
E-mail: elarocco@csuchico.edu

Esther L. Larocco is a full professor in the College of Communication and Education. She earned her PhD in education from U.C. Davis. At CSU, Chico, she also teaches and coordinates the Bilingual Multiple Subject Professional Preparation Program and is currently the Teacher Recruitment Project director. Her educational focus is on English and Spanish literacy development.

Favorite Quote: “Teaching provides a way to stay young at heart, to maintain a lifetime of active learning … It is in every respect a profession of hope.” (Vito Perrone, a teacher)

Fun Fact: Originally came to Chico as an exchange student from Montclair State University in New Jersey.

Rena Craig

Liberal Studies Program Advisor
E-mail: rjcraig@csuchico.edu

Rena Craig started her career with CSU, Chico in 2004. Her experience includes working in the office of Regional and Continuing Education, student records, and is currently an advisor in the liberal studies office. She is a CSU, Chico graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies and a minor in psychology.

Favorite Quote: A college degree is not a sign that one is a finished product but an indication a person is prepared for life. (Reverend Edward A. Malloy)

Fun fact: She got married on a pirate ship….Arrrrgh!

Pamela Morrell

Liberal Studies Program Advisor
E-mail: pmorrell@csuchico.edu

Pam has been at CSU, Chico since 1998 when she returned to complete her degree. She has worked in University Development & Advancement Services and in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics where she worked with the director of developmental mathematics prior to becoming a liberal studies advisor in 2006. In 2002, Pam earned her Bachelor of Arts in the Liberal Studies Bilingual Pattern with a minor in Latin American studies. She advises the Liberal Studies Student Association and the Student California Teacher’s Association, is a member of the National Academic Advising Association and the CSU, Chico Task Force on Internationalization for integrating international students into the campus and community.

“Advising liberal studies students is the most rewarding and fun job I’ve ever had. It’s exciting to see students fulfill their goals.”

Fun Facts: Pam interned as a third grade English teacher in Mérida, México.

Peer Advisors in Liberal Studies (PALS)

PALS are a group of dedicated and caring liberal studies majors who’ve ‘been there.’

Peer advisors help students complete class schedules, facilitate group advising workshops, make referrals to campus services, and assist the professional staff with programs and presentations.

Who are the PALS?

                           Katy, Nikki, Michelle, Melissa

• Katy Owens is a sophomore at Chico State. She was born and raised in Bakersfield, Ca, but wanted to move up North for her college experience. She is involved in the Student California Teachers Association (SCTA) and holds an officer position. She is also a Peer Mentor for the University 101 class. Katy enjoys helping other students find their way, whether it be personal issues or help with classes. Her office hours are Mondays from 10-11 and Thursdays from 3:30-4:30.
• Nikki Ledo is a senior at Chico State. She is a double major in Liberal Studies and Child Development. She also works in the Liberal Studies Office as the student assistant throughout the week. After receiving her Bachelors Degree, she plans on attending graduate school somewhere down south and getting her Masters in Family and Marriage Therapy. At Chico State, she is a member of The Honors Society of Kappa Delta Pi (KDP), as well as The Honors Society of Phi Kappa Phi, and is the Treasurer for the Child Development Student Association. Nikki loves talking with other students and helping them in any way she can. Her office hours are Wednesdays from 1-3.
• Michelle Bailey is a transfer student from Shasta College in Redding. She has been married for over two years to her best friend. She will graduate this year as a Liberal Studies major. Michelle loves Chico State and the community. She enjoys being involved in the Student California Teachers Association (SCTA) and recommends other students to come check out the program! Children are her passion and she is looking forward to teaching. Michelle's office hours are Tuesdays from 9-10:45 and Thursdays from 9:45-10:45.
• Melissa Hoppa is a sophomore Liberal Studies major at Chico State. She is in the Integrated Teacher Core (ITC) program, in which she will receive her Bachelors Degree in Liberal Studies and her multiple subject credential in four years. Melissa grew up in Livermore, Ca. She is excited to become an elementary school teacher and hopes to teach in the bay area. She loves hanging out with friends and being involved in the many activities that Chico State has to offer. Melissa's office hours are Mondays from 11:30-2:30.

To contact PALs, please call Liberal Studies Advising at (530) 898-5802. We are located in the Liberal Studies Office in Tehema 211. Please come in and see US!!! :)