About Us

FYE connects first-year, Exploratory Studies and transfer students to a community of student-centered courses, campus resources, and student peers who partner in helping students build their academic foundation and make a successful transition to Chico State.

Mission

The mission of the First-Year Experience is to support the successful transition and retention of first-year, transfer, and exploratory studies students at CSU, Chico. Through coordinated curricular and co-curricular experiences, FYE fosters social connection, identity exploration, and the development of academic and civic efficacy.

Community Agreements

1. Engagement and Participation: Come prepared and on time to share your perspectives and engage in lively discussions. Your insights are valuable and your active participation will enhance the learning experience for everyone.
2. Reflective Thinking: Take time to reflect on the material and how it applies to your role. Be ready to discuss practical ways to integrate what we learn into your daily work.
3. Supportive and Kind Environment: Everyone should be encouraged to express their thoughts. Listen actively, respect diverse viewpoints, and offer and accept constructive feedback. Mistakes happen, so be kind.
4. Application of Learning: Our goal is not just to learn concepts, but to apply them. Think about how each topic can be used in your weekly duties and be prepared to discuss and share strategies for practical implementation. Work to put ideas into practice and create a safe environment for learning from our mistakes using a growth mindset.
5. Ask Questions: Be curious, yet respectful. Ask if you need help or support. Be prepared with questions and be open to different forms of support. It’s important to be respectful of how others give support and whether they are ready for support.
6. Purpose and Adaptability: Purpose is the foundation of everything we do in FYE. Keep purpose and adaptability in mind when approaching challenging situations. Reflect on our purpose often so that we create opportunities to adapt and improve.

Program Outcome Goals

1. Increase FYE-supported student retention from the first to second year.
2. Foster a strong sense of student belonging and mattering at Chico State.
3. Support the development of academic identity and purpose in FYE-supported students.
4. Strengthen academic efficacy and confidence in FYE-supported students.
5. Cultivate civic awareness, responsibility, and engagement at Chico State.

Meet the Team

• Sue Peterson, Director
• Dani Fernandez, Program Coordinator
• Steve Brooks, Admin Support Coordinator