Student Services Center, Room 460
530-898-6880
graduatestudies@csuchico.edu

The Office of Graduate Studies
Business Hours
8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Monday–Friday

Mailing Address
Office of Graduate Studies
California State University, Chico
400 W. First St.
Chico, CA 95929–0875

Grad Studies YouTube Channel (@chicostate-gradstudies)

2024-2025 McNair Scholars

I am in my last year of an Exercise Physiology bachelor's program. My educational goal is to pursue a master program in occupational therapy. I am proud that I have been part of College Corps, EOP, the Adelante program and accepted into the McNair's Scholarship. Additionally, I have volunteer for Veteran Affairs Department in San Francisco CA at their health center, I am volunteering at Loma Vista preschool under an Occupational Therapy. Last semester I was added to the Dean list at the Kinesiology department. The latest accomplishment I am at now is a job offer as a Physical Therapist Technician.

Hi! I’m Diana Avila, a senior at California State University, Chico, majoring in Biological Sciences with a focus on Cellular and Molecular Biology. I’m currently involved in Chico State’s Mycology Lab, where I research fungal aerobiota at the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve. After I finish my undergrad, I’m planning to pursue a PhD in Ecology to tackle emerging fungal diseases in mammals that are linked to global warming. With the support of my future advisor, I hope to identify these new diseases and work on developing treatments. My ultimate goal is to start my own biotechnology company to address mental health issues and find innovative cures.

Brooke Cárcamo is a fourth-year student at Chico State majoring in Journalism with an option in Public Relations and a minor in Marketing. After graduation, she hopes to pursue her Master’s degree in Social Sciences. In her free time, she enjoys going on picnics, hiking, and writing.

Hello, my name is Leonel Castillo-Ferreyra and I'm a history major. I'm currently a senior and I hope to start the Grad program at Chico State next fall. I enjoy playing guitar and skateboarding. Currently, I've been focusing on Latin American history and American history particularly local history in Northern California.

I am a mother, sister, daughter, friend, mentor, and human. In social settings, I go by Shannon and in my happiest place Mom. I'm a mother of five beautiful children, ages twenty-one to four. I started my college education twenty years ago with no more than an 8th grade education. I have been off and on for that duration as a result of the obstacles of raising children. It took me approximately fifteen years to find my passion in science. My major in Microbiology with a CLS emphasis , and a minor in Chemistry and biochemistry . With all my credentials, I hope to be a clinical license scientist or obtain a master's and teach at a Junior College.With the support of the McNair program, I hope to explore all the opportunities that are available with my education.

Hi everyone! I'm Karen, a senior in biochemistry. I have been fortunate to conduct biology research alongside my faculty advisor, Dr. Gorman, for the past 3 years. My research has focused on studying the effects of testosterone on medaka fish with idiopathic scoliosis! This year, I serve as the president of the ACS: Student Chapter (the chemistry club). I'm excited to work with my peers to plan engaging events for our community! I also have the role of lead intern organizer for the California State University Employees Union (CSUEU). Where I support student assistants across California fight for better working conditions! I'm thrilled to be a part of this program and find the right grad school for me! :)

My name is Isadora (they/she), and I am an Advanced Manufacturing and Applied Robotics major, and I transferred to Chico State in the spring of 2023. I am a crafter, tinkerer, and artist at heart. I was originally a Photography major when I first went to community college, but after an extended hiatus I decided to switch to engineering as it more closely aligns with my long-term goals. I care deeply about community resiliency, especially in the face of worsening climate change, and I hope to use my education to help find ways to build our communities resiliency, and local environment.

Hello, and welcome to my adventure! I am Alexandra Ewing, a Chico State University senior majoring in animal science at the College of Agriculture. Individualistically, I am a curious person who seeks to see the best in any situation and laughs even at the worst of times. My minimal free time is spent apprenticing as an AI technician at Orland dairies, interning at the Chico State Sheep Unit as a researcher, participating in various committees and clubs on campus, and napping. My academic goal is to continue my studies in graduate school, specializing in animal physiology with a focus on reproduction for production applications and beyond. Ultimately, I hope to pursue a career in sheep or cattle production and return to academia as an Animal Science professor, conducting reproductive research to advance the industry. For me, agriculture and animal science are more than just career paths; they are a lifestyle of hard work, adventure, and innovation for the betterment of the industry and society!

My name is Yesenia Garagarza and I am a senior here at CSU Chico. My major is MCGS with an emphasis on women’s studies and double minor in Chicana/Latinx Studies and QTST minor as well. I am a full-time mom of a 4 y/o son and 2 y/o daughter and currently expecting our 3rd baby, I work full time and in my little bit of free time I love to spend it with my kids, on the beach traveling and sightseeing fun things. My goal is to graduate in May (finally!) after almost 10 years after community college. I'm hoping to continue with my Master's but one step at a time.

Hi! I’m Bobby, a senior majoring in both Physical and Human Geography at Chico State, with plans to graduate in Spring 2025. I’m passionate about exploring the world around me, both in the classroom and out in nature. After graduation, I aim to pursue a PhD in Geography and hope to one day inspire students as a university professor. When I’m not immersed in studies or working on my Honors capstone, you’ll find me riding my Harley Davidson along the coast, attending music festivals, or planning my next outdoor adventure. I’m a proud single father of three, with two already out of school, and I share my home with my awesome cat, who’s my low-maintenance buddy for life. Looking forward to what the future holds—both in academia and beyond!

My name is Damon Gallegos (he/him), and I am honored to be in the inaugural group of McNair Scholars. I am a third year Agricultural Communications and Leadership major with minors in Animal Science and Theatre Arts, and a member of our Honors in GE Program. I have truly immersed myself as a wildcat working in the College of Humanities and Fine Arts, serving as the president for Pride in Agriculture, being a senior member in Agriculture Ambassadors, and being in the NUFP program. Outside of my time as a Wildcat, you can find me performing on stage with the California Regional Theatre/Chico Theatre Company, being a cashier at TJ Maxx, singing, and going outside! My career plans are continuously growing and changing but I currently desire to get a terminal degree in Agricultural Communications and Leadership, while continuing to live a life that is full of hard work and perseverance.

My name is Elaina. I look forward to polishing my skills as a student as well as a scholar! This is my senior year and I'm so excited to see where my education takes me from here.

My name is Sean Jacobs and I am excited to join the inaugural cohort of McNair Scholars and am a member of Project Rebound. I am here at Chico State studying for my BA in Sociology and really enjoy learning about the interactions of society.I am in my late 40s and am a father of two teenagers. I am a member of The Rosicrucian Order AMORC and enjoy learning the Esoteric Arts and philosophy. I am planning to attend graduate school and achieve a master's degree in social work in order to become a therapist and public speaker, working in the addiction treatment community. I spent a lot of my life in active addiction and have a sobriety date of 12/13/18.Returning back to school after 28 years has been an empowering experience and I hope to share that empowerment with as many people as possible.

My name is Miriam Jimenez Cuevas, I am from Santa Maria, CA. I'm a double major in Cellular & Molecular Biological Science and Public Health. During my free time, I enjoy going to the beach, hikes or trails with a good view. I also love thrifting and reading.

Stephen Kodur is a transfer student from Reedley College, pursuing a degree in Organizational Leadership and Psychology with an expected graduation date of May 2025. After graduation, he plans to immediately start his master's program in Leadership or Communications. In addition to his studies, he actively engages in Ultimate Frisbee, Golf, and Softball, flexing his athleticism and developing his teamwork and leadership skills. He has been involved in multiple student leadership and advocacy positions and is most proud of becoming the President of the Student Senate for California Community Colleges where he advocated for Cal Grant reform, basic needs centers, underrepresented student populations, and much more. The McNair's Scholars program has been the educational highlight of his time at Chico State and he looks forward to utilizing his time as a scholar to make a positive impact and become more prepared for graduate school. Along with receiving this scholarship, he was also named Student Leader of the Year in 2020, Commencement Speaker in 2021, and Distinguished Alumni in 2023.

Hello! My name is Cassidy Kuharski, and I am currently a senior here at Chico State. I am an Art Education major with a Minor in Childhood Development. My emphasis in art is ceramics, so I love to make ceramic pieces such as ceramic cakes, mugs, and jewelry holders in the studio. I also enjoy reading, painting, and baking in my free time outside of class.

My name is Callie Lions, and I am currently in my third semester at Chico State. I’m really happy I chose this university! I transferred from Santa Monica College, where I earned my associate's degree in liberal arts. Now, I’m pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Multicultural Gender Studies, with a double minor in Queer and Trans Studies and Women's Studies. I live in Los Angeles and am part of the online program, which is perfect for balancing my responsibilities as a mother. My family and I love spending time in nature, especially in the Redwood Forest and Sequoia National Park. We have a dog named Oreo, and my mother-in-law lives with us as well. I’m involved with a grassroots organization called SGI-USA, where we promote peace, culture, and education based on the inherent dignity of each person's life. As the oldest sibling, I feel it’s my responsibility to pave the way for my entire family in the realm of education. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to pursue higher education, and when I graduate, I want to give back to society and advocate for marginalized and oppressed communities. After graduation, I plan on pursuing my Master’s at Soka University of America Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership and Societal Change. My mentor always says, “Harness the power of education and use it to create hope and value for humankind.” — Daisaku Ikeda, 2014

My name is Chong Lor. I am majoring in Business Administration with my option in Accounting. I am a senior this year and will be graduating Spring 2025 but will be fully done with my bachelor in Fall 2025 since I declare into the major late. A fun fact about me is that I was born in Thailand and lived there for a year until we moved to St. Paul, Mn. On my free time I love to shop, listen to music, and watch anime. I also enjoy doing hands on activities such as crocheting, knitting, and painting. I’m excited to learn more about graduate programs and explore the next steps in my academic journey.

My name is Hannah and I’m a Food and Nutrition Science major in the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) with a minor in Foodservice Administration. I’m second-generation Mexican American from the Central Valley of California. I’m the treasurer for my club Latinas in Action. My goal is to serve marginalized communities as a public health dietitian. I enjoy hiking and studying in the library with friends.

My name is Sergio Palacios Jr., and I am currently pursuing a B.S. in Biochemistry here at Chico State. I grew up in Stockton, CA, where I earned my A.S. in Mathematics from San Joaquin Delta College before transferring to CSU Chico in 2022. I’ll be graduating this spring with a B.S. in Biochemistry and plan to return in the fall to begin my Master's degree in Biology. This past summer I had the opportunity to conduct research through CSC^2 under the mentorship of Dr. Fleming, who inspired me to further my education and pursue a master’s degree. Outside of academia, I enjoy spending time with my family watching movies, playing video and card games, and reading comic books.

Hi, I’m Mandy, a senior psychology major with a criminal justice minor. My goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on forensic psychology and trauma. Once I have my degree I hope to work in the field for a time before returning to Chico State to teach. I love playing volleyball, gardening, and conducting research. I am so excited and proud to be a McNair Scholar!

My name is Tatum Raymond, and I am currently an undergraduate senior with a major in Animal Science/Pre-Vet and a minor in Chemistry, as well as a place in the Honors in General Education Program. I am a first-generation college student originally from Susanville, CA which is about 100 miles northeast of Chico, and I transferred here in the Fall of 2023 after graduating from Lassen Community College with my A.S in Animal Science. My plans after graduation are to attend Colorado State University and be a part of their DVM/Ph.D. in Pathology combined pathway so that I can work as a veterinarian specializing in clinical or anatomical pathology. As of earlier this year, I was hired to work in the Microbes in Agriculture Research Station Lab (M.A.R.S. Lab as we have affectionately named it) where we experiment with and analyze soil microbial populations at various locations and how they are affected by regenerative agricultural practices as compared to conventional agricultural practices. Aside from my research, I love to draw and paint, as well as get out into nature! Art has been my favorite hobby (when I have the time) for about the past 10 years. Overall, I’m so grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given, and excited to see where the future takes me!

My name is Samantha Taylor, and I am honored to have been accepted into the McNair Scholar Program. I am a transfer student from Butte Community College and am very excited to be working towards an EEO Biology degree here at Chico State. I am very family-oriented and love spending time with my son. We enjoy bowling and travel all over the state to compete in tournaments. I like to read, paint, and draw when I have free time. I love being in and near the water, which is what inspired me to continue my higher education. I plan to become a marine biologist with an emphasis on ecological restoration.

First Generation, Junior student in Electrical Engineering, and McNair Scholar. An active member of LTC and IEEE. My hobbies include GYM, ping pong, and light gaming. I Enjoy hiking in nature and studying in coffee shops with great views.