Advising

General Education Advising
Lassen Hall 1013
(916) 278-1000
www.csus.edu/acad

Effective intentional academic advising is essential to accomplishing the University’s instructional mission. Through collaboration and academic guidance, the Academic Advising Center fosters a developmental process of assisting undergraduate students in clarifying and achieving their personal, professional, career and educational goals. Students are encouraged, and in some circumstances, required to meet with a professional or faculty advisor at least once a semester.

Advisors help students:

• Understand the value of the University’s General Education program, and the relationship of this program to individual interests and career objectives;
• Interpret and apply University policies;
• Ensure they are taking the courses for timely progress to degree; and
• Explore educational and career objectives compatible with their interests and abilities.

The ultimate responsibility for academic success rests with the student, who is expected to:

• Be aware of and comply with the University’s academic policies, procedures, and deadlines;
• Be familiar with the My Sac State Student Center including the KEYS to Degree toolbox;
• Meet regularly, at least once each semester, with an advisor in the major and an advisor in the Academic Advising Center.
• Declare/Change their major when appropriate. The form is available online at http://www.csus.edu/registrar/forms/.

Because of the relationship between proactive advising and academic success, first year and transfer students are required to attend New Student Orientation. In addition, first year students are required to complete advising during their first two semesters at Sacramento State. It is recommended that students also meet with advisors in their major. All students on academic probation are required to meet with an advisor in their department and all second-year students on probation are required to meet with the Academic Advising Center. Undeclared and Expressed Interest majors must officially declare a major before earning 60 units.

A complete list of the Academic Advising Center’s programs and services can be found at www.csus.edu/acad

Faculty Advisor

Advisors in the academic departments help students select appropriate major courses each semester and are also helpful in exploring career options specific to their major or concentration.

New Student Orientation

University Union 2230
csus.edu/orientation
(916) 278-7841

Orientation is required for all new first year and transfer students. The program is designed to help students make a successful transition from their previous college or high school to Sac State. During Orientation, student orientation leaders meet with small groups of new students to discuss academic requirements, advising tools and offer helpful tips regarding campus resources and student life.  In addition, new students meet with their major department advisors and register for courses. New fall students attend Orientation during the summer, while new spring students attend Orientation in January. Program details (including the Parent/Guest program) are located on the New Student Orientation website. 

Specific Advisors

Student-Athlete Resource Center

Lassen Hall 3002
www.csus.edu/sarc
(916) 278-5431; (916) 278-7796

The Student-Athlete Resource Center (SARC) is designed to enhance the academic and overall life development experience for NCAA Division I student athletes at Sacramento State. The SARC assists student-athletes in pursuing and successfully completing a college degree while also preparing them for challenges and experiences after college. The Center provides Sacramento State student-athletes with a very comprehensive academic support system.

The SARC provides student-athletes with a variety of academic support and services from the outset of their academic careers at Sacramento State. It provides the student-athletes with opportunities to develop and improve their academic skills, as well as to receive exceptional advising on University policies and procedures, coursework, and career choices. In addition, the Center’s staff monitors the progress of each student-athlete towards completion of their degree in compliance with the academic bylaws mandated by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The SARC provides student-athletes with additional academic support in the forms of computer labs, individual tutoring, and specialized retention advising for student-athletes with additional academic needs. The Center also coordinates all of the activities associated with the NCAA/CHAMPS Life Skills Program. This nationwide program focuses on helping student athletes achieve in all areas of personal, academic, community, career, and athletic development.

The SARC Office and academic computer lab is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Undergraduate Business Advising Center

Tahoe Hall 1030
(916) 278-BIZZ (2499)
www.csus.edu/cba/ubac

The Undergraduate Business Advising Center (UBAC) is part of the Office of Student Engagement in the College of Business. UBAC assists undergraduate business majors, expressed interest in business, and minors with program advising, graduation evaluations, and petitions relating to the major and/or minor.

Teaching Credentials Advising

Eureka Hall 437
(916) 278-6403
www.csus.edu/coe/offices-services/aero/advising

The  Advising, Recruitment, Retention, and Outreach (AERO) Services assists students who are interested in pursuing a career as an elementary, middle/junior high, high school, or special education teacher. The AERO advisors work with students on issues related to state and university requirements for credential programs, support for taking required exams, and information about scholarships and other sources of financial support available to teacher candidates. Students considering teaching as a career should visit this office during their first semester.

Student Service Center

Lassen Hall 1000
(916) 278-1000
www.csus.edu/ssc

The Student Service Center (SSC) is the central hub for student services under Enrollment Management & Student Services. The Center provides multi-faceted assistance to students, alumni, faculty, and staff. The Center provides students with a wide range of information and transactions related to enrollment, registration, financial aid, financial wellness, and more! Additionally, the SSC offers many services on behalf of the university and navigates students through a myriad of other campus resources. They are the primary location for Lost & Found in Lassen Hall.

Their mission is to provide a welcoming and accessible environment that is dedicated to educating, supporting, and developing student success by providing accurate, efficient, and holistic information to the Sacramento State campus community. 

The Student Service Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. during the academic year and 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. in the summer.

Academic Enrichment Programs

The Black Honors College

The Garden Level of the Library
Room 15
www.csus.edu/student-affairs/black-honors-college/

The Black Honors College is an enhanced co-curricular college for students providing specialized coursework, distinctive research opportunities and creative arts, residential living and learning programs, scholarships, and distinguished recognition.
The Black Honors College is designed for students who are interested in Black history, life, culture, and contributions. All incoming students who have a GPA of 3.5 or higher are encouraged to apply. The College is open to incoming first-year students each fall, and to transfer students and Sacramento State students each spring who have completed general education. Transfer students and Sacramento State students who have completed general education requirements are required to complete a Minor in Leadership.  New cohorts are admitted annually.

BHC Experience

• Accelerated, specialized coursework with a general education pathway
• Bi-weekly seminars on economic empowerment, self-determination, and courageous leadership
• Weekly study hours
• Paid internships
• Distinctive research opportunities and creative arts
• Specialized residential living and learning program

First Year Experience Programs

ARC 4002
(916) 278-2804
www.csus.edu/fye

The First Year Experience Program

The mission of the First Year Experience Program (FYE) at Sacramento State is to improve the retention and graduation rates of native students, a goal that is directly aligned with the CSU system wide Graduation Initiative.  FYE consists of:

1. the First Year Seminar course and University Learning Community course "clusters"
2. co-curricular activities embedded in the courses, that are designed to increase student engagement with the campus, community, faculty, and peers
3. Peer Mentors who attend courses with first year students, and provide personal, academic, and advising support
4. The FYE Space - #LIB3520 provides a space for first year college students to study, work in groups, meet their peer mentor, and find support.  Students get support from peer mentors called the Go To Crew in the FYE Space

Enrollment in the University Learning Community Program (LCOM) and/or First Year Seminar Courses (FYS) occurs during New Student Orientation and during spring registration.

First Year Seminars

First Year Seminars provide students with an introduction to the nature and meaning of higher education and to the functions and resources of the University. Students in the class gain insights and develop tools that allow them to get the most out of their university education at Sacramento State. The seminars also provide students with the opportunity to interact with fellow students and the seminar leader, building a community of academic and personal support. Students who have taken the course do better academically than the general student population.

This introductory course satisfies the Area E General Education requirement. The course is listed under individual department names with the added designation of 21. For example, COMS 21 (Communication Studies) is a First Year Seminar, with specific information relevant to each major covered in more detail. Some of the First Year Seminars are stand-alone courses while others are part of a learning community.

The First Year Seminar is a 3 unit General Education (GE) Area E course where students explore the requirements and responsibilities of becoming a university educated person. Most FYS were paired with another course in the Learning Community, while the rest of FYS were “stand alone” (i.e. not paired with another course in a learning community).

Each First Year Seminar course shares the following characteristics:

• Small class sizes (capped at 30; lower cap for certain sections) to meet the needs of incoming first year students
• Use of the campus One Book for a common intellectual experience, common course description and learning goals, common class activities, assignments, and assessments aligned with Baccalaureate Learning Goals and GE Area E requirement
• Support for faculty to implement effective curricular activities (assignment descriptions, guest speaker lists, assessments, rubrics, all available online on SacCT/Blackboard)
• Opportunities for faculty professional development around teaching, learning and FYE programmatic research through an annual Convocation, annual curriculum workshop, and periodic faculty interest groups
• Support for embedding co-curricular activities (funding, coordination), including High Impact Practices
• Taught by both faculty and student affairs professionals, indicating the collaborative cross-divisional nature of the program
• Students learn how to access academic & personal support resources

The FYE Library Space

A designated academic location in Library 3520 (3rd floor) that is available primarily for first time college students called “The FYE Space.” Events are often held in the Space to introduce information to students, as well as celebrate achievements (“May One is Done.”) Students visit the Space to study, connect with faculty, meet with the FYE librarian, check-in with a Go To Crew peer mentor, or get support between classes. Workshops on writing, leadership, and major advising are offered throughout the semester. It was established to develop a space where First Year students could always connect with a community on campus.

Learning Communities

The Learning Communities program establishes connections between courses in different subject areas with General Education curricula. Each Learning Community consists of two to three classes, with faculty who try to link course topics, coordinating readings and assignments. Students who join a Learning Community are linked to other students enrolled in the same classes, helping students form connections with professors and other students that strengthen their networks of social and academic support. Learning Communities may also have a peer mentor to help students navigate the transition from high school to college.

Students admitted to Sacramento State do not need to meet any other admission criteria to join a Learning Community. New communities are formed each fall, and information about the semester's Learning Community offerings is shared at summer First Year Student Orientation. More information is available on the First Year Experience website at http://www.csus.edu/fye

Honors Program

ARC 4002
(916) 278-2804

The General Education Honors Program at California State University, Sacramento offers qualified and highly motivated students an opportunity to have a challenging, innovative, and stimulating learning experience. Through small class sizes (around 25 students), students experience intimate classroom settings which promote discussion, integrative learning and a global perspective. The Program is open to incoming freshmen. We do not accept transfer students.

The Honors Program academic experience is composed of 45 units of Honors courses (36 lower division and 9 upper division). Honors students take at least 12 units per semester. During their freshman and sophomore years, Honors students will take three Honors courses per semester and the remaining course(s) can be filled with other courses required in their major or pre-major. Three upper division courses taken during their junior and senior year conclude the Honors experience. Completion of all Honors courses will fulfill Sacramento State General Education requirements for graduation with the exception of the lab science and freshman composition.

The core of the lower division curriculum is a three-semester Honors seminar in which students read some of the great books of world civilizations, analyze the writings of world thinkers and writers, and improve their skills in critical thinking and writing. The three upper division Honors courses are organized around the theme of learning and acting for the public good.

Honors students at Sacramento State experience individualized attention from dedicated professors, special seminars in their academic programs, extracurricular activities in the form of cultural events, various Honors Colloquia and interaction with faculty members and their fellow Honors students in and out of class. Students are strongly encouraged to study abroad through either short term programs developed specifically for the Honors Program, or semester or year long programs created for Sacramento State, and the CSU. They are also encouraged to complete an internship and an undergraduate research experience. A variety of Scholarships are available to support study abroad and other academic pursuits.

For further information and application instructions, visit the Honors Web site at www.csus.edu/honorsprogram.

Graduate Preparation Academy (GPA)

River Front Center 203
(916) 278-3834
E-mail: graddiversity@csus.edu
http://www.csus.edu/graddiv/

The Graduate Preparation Academy (GPA) is designed to prepare undergraduate students for admission and study at the graduate level. The GPA provides undergraduate students interested in pursuing a graduate degree with intensive graduate school preparation.  Students selected to participate in the graduate school preparation academy will be provided with information and resources about participating in academic research, engaging with faculty mentors, preparing academically for graduate school, assistance with scholarship and fellowship opportunities, and graduate education entrance examinations through interactive speakers, panels, and workshops.

We offer a rigorous academic program that prepares students for the opportunities and challenges that face them in post-baccalaureate education. Participants are connected with a faculty member who will offer mentoring throughout the graduate school application process, feedback on essays, and other application materials. Participants are encouraged to participate in regional and national academic conferences to present their academic research.

McNair Scholars Program

River Front Center 203
(916) 278-5118
E-mail: Mcnair@csus.edu
www.csus.edu/mcnair

The Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program is a federally funded program designed to prepare selected Sacramento State undergraduate students for admission and study at the doctoral level. Each year, 24 McNair Scholars participate in both academic year and summer activities.

Students who have obtained 45 units or more, have a GPA of 2.8 or higher and are low income and first in their family to attend college, or students who are considered underrepresented in their major (as defined by federal regulations) can gain research skills, knowledge, and information needed to complete doctoral degrees in their fields of study.

The academic components include: a three-unit research methodology course, meetings with the McNair Program staff and the faculty mentors to assess personal needs and review academic progress, and preparation for a summer research project. For students who have completed 60 units or more, the summer component includes enrolling in a one unit supervised research course and travel to select McNair Symposiums where students have the opportunity to present their research findings. Scholars receive additional guidance from the McNair Faculty Coordinator and a faculty mentor in completing a published research article. Senior McNair scholars complete a 3-unit senior seminar which provides assistance with selecting, applying, and financing graduate studies.

Stipends for travel to doctoral institutions and research conferences to present research papers are granted to students who complete their research projects. McNair scholars also receive a stipend as part of their participation in the summer research experience. Scholars are encouraged to participate in statewide and national conferences to present their research findings.

Business Based Educational Equity Program (BEEP)

Tahoe Hall 1006
(916) 278-5875
http://csus.edu/cba/biz/index.html

The Business Educational Equity Program (BEEP) encourages and supports all students who major in business. BEEP, also known as the Business Tutoring & Study Center, provides peer-assisted tutoring and a place to study where one-on-one and group assistance is available for business students seeking academic support in numerous lower and upper division business courses. Tutoring is provided on a drop-in basis for business students, and at no charge. All business students interested in the program should contact the College of Business, Office of Student Engagement at (916) 278-5875 or visit the office in Tahoe Hall 1030.

Cooper-Woodson College

Enhancement Program (CWC)
Amador Hall 460
Director: Dr. Boatamo Mosupyoe
(916) 278-5363
www.csus.edu/cooper

Cooper-Woodson College Enhancement Program (CWC) emphasizes scholarship, leadership, and service by creating a supportive and nurturing learning environment that is responsive to the needs of students. Although the program is patterned after traditional relationships between students and faculty at historically Black colleges and universities, it serves students from all backgrounds. Faculty, staff, and community members assume the responsibility for shaping and guiding students through the college experience. Key objectives of CWC are the retention of students and the development of leaders.

CWC scholars, staff, faculty, and members of the community organize and participate in the following activities/events: Faculty/Staff Mentoring Program, African-American History Month rally and lectures, the annual Anna J. Cooper and Carter G. Wood lectures, and the annual African-American graduation celebration ceremony.

MESA Engineering Program (MEP)

Santa Clara Hall 1213
(916) 278-6699

Participation in the MESA Engineering (MEP) increases the probability that students will be successful in their engineering college studies. Focusing on the recruitment, retention, and graduation of highly motivated students from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds, MEP emphasizes participation by students from communities with low rates of enrollment in engineering majors.

The MEP program provides an on-campus home for its members with a large 24 hours-a-day study center that encourages study groups. MEP provides professional development, a freshman orientation course, and personal-academic advising. It assists in the coordination of tutoring services for all students in the College of Engineering.

Science Educational Equity (SEE)

Sequoia Hall 315
(916) 278-6519
www.csus.edu/nsm/see

The Science Educational Equity (SEE) program is a comprehensive academic support program designed for students who face social, economic, or educational barriers that limit access to careers in the sciences and health professions. Students are encouraged to form study groups for both lower and upper division coursework. Science faculty provide academic and pre-professional advising for each student and are available for career guidance and assistance with course material. Students attend professional conferences, participate in academic workshops and seminars, and are encouraged to attend summer enrichment programs at other universities and laboratories. The program provides assistance with applications to graduate programs, health professional schools, and summer enrichment programs. SEE also provides students the opportunity to meet and interact with faculty, community members, and other students.

All students interested in becoming a part of the SEE program are expected to demonstrate a commitment to the community through service to SEE, the University, and/or the Sacramento community. Upon entry to the program, each student is required to meet with an academic/major advisor to develop a comprehensive academic plan; it is the student’s responsibility to schedule an advising appointment each semester thereafter to update the academic plan.

Center for College and Career Readiness (CCR)

http://www.csus.edu/ccr

The Center for College & Career Readiness (CCR), a division of Academic Affairs, is the principle campus resource for everything “College and Career Ready.” Our success comes from building and developing intersegmental educational partnerships throughout the greater Sacramento Region.  Using a collective impact infrastructure, CCR focuses on establishing a continuous pipeline from preschool to bachelor’s degree; ensures that high school graduates enter Sacramento State better academically prepared to succeed at the university level; and, provides readily available resources and timely interventions for current and future students.

Programs within the Center for College and Career Readiness include:

• The Early Assessment Program (EAP) serves as an ‘early readiness signal’ allowing for the placement of students in corresponding K-12 courses to fortify the academic and metacognitive skills needed for transition success. The EAP is responsible for the development of intersegmental curriculum in mathematics and English, as well as teacher professional development.
• The EAP Senior Year Mathematics (ESM) Course is the result of a regional partnership involving teams of mathematics faculty from higher education, high school teachers, and county offices of education.  This course is designed to strengthen students’ mathematical foundation, and deepen their conceptual understanding of mathematical theory, skills and strategies.
• The Expository Reading and Writing Course (ERWC) prepares college-bound seniors for the literacy demands of higher education.  Students in this yearlong, rhetoric-based course develop advanced proficiencies in expository, analytical, and argumentative reading and writing.  Students will be expected to increase their awareness of the rhetorical strategies employed by authors, and to apply those strategies in their own writing. 

The CCR works closely with local middle schools, high schools, and community colleges to create opportunities for students to gain the life and academic skills necessary for college success and future career aspirations.  We strive to engage with each of the 215 high schools in our service area. Our programs include:

• Middle School Outreach: provides sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students the opportunity for early self-identification as a college student or career professional.
• CCR Summer Boot Camp: provides incoming high school juniors the opportunity to explore college and career readiness skill sets from both a metacognitive and academic perspective.
• CCR High School Outreach: provides onsite workshops, presentations, and campus visits for high school students, informing them of the importance of using their junior and senior years proactively, tips for choosing a college and a major, and how to avoid remediation.
• Transition to Success Program (TSP): assists incoming freshman in making a smooth transition to Sacramento State by providing customized mentoring, social emotional support, and a ‘home base’ until graduation.
• TSP Peer Coaches: provide current TSP students with the opportunity to serve as peer coaches to high school sophomores; coaches receive a stipend and professional development.

Centers for Student Support

Student Academic Success and Educational Equity Programs (SASEEP)

The Student Academic Success and Educational Equity Programs are committed to fostering diversity and equity while promoting a campus learning environment that encourages and supports all students in persisting toward their educational goal by increasing their retention and graduation rates. This is accomplished through the unified effort of the following programs: the  College Based Educational Equity Programs (CBEEP), the Dedicated to Educating, Graduating, and Retaining Educational Equity Students (DEGREES) Project, the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), the Summer Bridge Academies, the Project HMONG, the Executive Trainers Program (ETP), Faculty Student Mentor Program (FSMP), the Guardian Scholars Program (GSP), the Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholars Program (MLK), the Male Empowerment Collaborative (MEC), the Parents and Families Program (P&F), the Paving Excellence, Retention, and Success in Student Trajectories (PERSIST) Program, the Peer and Academic Resource Center (PARC), the First Generation Student Institute (FGI), U-Mentor, Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT), the Native Scholars Transition Program, and Partnerships for Advancing the Value of Education (PAVE). These programs and services are designed to build upon the dreams and aspirations of our campus community – our students, faculty, and staff, our alumni, and the people of our region.

The Student Academic Success and Educational Equity Programs are guided by the following primary goals:

1. Access and Equity
   To provide underrepresented students with access to a higher education and supportive services that are designed to enable them to persist through the college experience.
2. Recruitment and Transition
   To aid students in their transition to college life through pre-college equity services and assistance in navigating the higher education experience.
3. Retention and Graduation
   To provide a comprehensive range of retention and progress to degree services (e.g., academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, coaching, & counseling, etc.) to underrepresented students in the Unit to facilitate their graduation.

The Parents & Families Program

Lassen 2205
Haley.Myers@csus.edu; parentsfamilies@csus.edu
916-278-4353
Family Helpline: 916-278-3399

The Parents & Families Program supports pregnant and parenting students, as well as parents and family members of enrolled students. Communications, events and customer service inform and involve students and families, and generate support and goodwill for the campus community and beyond.

Highlights of the program include monthly Town Hall Zooms for parents and the Parent Ambassadors, a group of specially-trained parent volunteers; expanded support services for students-with-children, including advising for student-parents and pregnant students, and the Hornet Family Study Care Grant, which pays half of Pell-eligible student-parents’ out-of-pocket childcare costs. See www.csus.edu/parents for more information.

College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP)

River Front Center 1
(916) 278-7241

Director: Eric Perez
www.csus.edu/camp

CAMP is a unique federally funded educational program that helps students from migrant and seasonal farmworker backgrounds succeed at Sacramento State. CAMP facilitates the transition from high school to college and offers first-year support services to develop the skills necessary to persist and graduate from college. CAMP strives to be "a home away from home" for its students.

CAMP offers:

• Early outreach and recruitment services
• Personal, academic and career counseling
• Tutoring and academic skill building instruction and assistance
• Assistance with special admissions
• Health services
• Assistance in obtaining student financial aid
• Housing support for students living in institutional facilities and commuting students
• Exposure to cultural events, academic programs, and other educational/cultural activities not available to migrant youth
• Internships
• A “home away from home” environment
• Follow-up services for students after they have completed their first year of college

To be eligible for CAMP, students must reflect an agricultural background, meaning they or their parent(s) or guardian(s) must have engaged in migrant or seasonal farm work labor for a minimum of 75 days within the last 24 months.

Degrees Project

Lassen 2006
Director: Dr. Marcellene Watson-Derbigny
http://www.csus.edu/degreesproject

The Dedicated to Educating, Graduating, and Retaining Educational Equity Students (DEGREES) Project seeks to provide enhanced services to undergraduate students to make timely progress to their degrees and to reduce the achievement gap. Services provided by the DEGREES Project include: access to DEGREES Project Coaches to ensure students are connected to resources, on campus mentorship made available through the “U” Mentor Program, faculty advising in the Colleges, 24/7 tutoring available through Smarthinking, and an overall comprehensive and integrated menu of academic and student support services designed to foster student success. Targeted interventions reach particular populations to assist high-unit seniors to graduate, boost second-year persistence, promote the writing proficiency exam for juniors, assist with helping students to identify a major, and increase the utilization of high impact practices on campus.

Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars Center

Lassen Hall 2201
(916) 278-2MLK (2655)
http://csus.edu/saseep/mlk/

The Sacramento State Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars Program, which opened in November 2015, is a university-wide effort to promote the cultural and historical legacies of Black and African-American Students. The program is set by the backdrop of a mission to support and ensure the success of Black and African American students and those with an interest in African American heritage in their quest toward a degree at Sacramento State. The vision of the MLK Jr. Center is to foster an ethos of success that permeates the scholarly experience, the community and the world by setting a tone of change and lifelong improvement that inspires and fulfills the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Center for First-Generation Student Initiatives

Lassen Hall 2205
(916) 278-6183
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/first-generation-students/

The Center for First-Generation Student Initiatives mission is to collaboratively build a collegial network of faculty, staff, students, and alumni who identify as first-generation and their supporters to promote, support, and advance first-generation student success while ensuring first-generation personal, professional, academic, and social college experiences are woven into the culture and climate of the university.

To guide this mission, the Center for First-Generation Student Initiatives maintains intra and inter institutional connections between vital campus community partners with each of the following outcome goals:

• Goal #1. Empower first-generation students with the skills and knowledge to improve retention, persistence and graduation rate
• Goal #2. Equip first-generation students with the skills and knowledge to create meaningful mentorships and connections to advance their academic and career aspirations.
• Goal #3. Engage first-generation students with the skills and knowledge to make positive decisions to improve their holistic development.

Sacramento State is designated as a First Forward institution, an initiative of NASPA and The Suder Foundation that nationally recognize higher education institution committed to first-generation student success.  

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Center

Lassen Hall 2200

(916) 278-6183
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/asian-pacific-islander-desi-american-student-center/

Mission Statement

The Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Center’s mission is to facilitate APIDA students’ academic and personal success and affirm their diverse experiences through community leadership, student engagement, and mentorship.

Vision Statement

To serve as a resource hub and to advocate for the needs of APIDA students.

Objectives

Across Sacramento State, we strive to:

•Promote student equity, inclusivity, and cultural awareness

•Collaborate with students, staff, faculty, alumni, and the community

•Raise awareness of the unique and diverse needs of APIDA students

Project HMONG (Helping Mentor Our Next Generation)

Lassen Hall 2205
(916) 278-6183
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/retention-academic-success/project-hmong.html

Project HMONG’s mission is to ensure the health, retention, persistence, and graduation success for Southeast Asian students, including but not limited to Hmong, Mien, Laotian, Cambodian, Thai and other underrepresented students. Committed to build a positive and supportive community of mentors and peers through mentoring and networking with support, guidance, and encouragement while promoting positive character development, Project HMONG’s focus is on student leadership, professional development and campus/community engagement through a cultural lens that incorporates the students’ experiences.

Students can be involved in the Peer to Peer Program  to cultivate their own leadership skills and abilities in the context of their culture and college experience while learning about the role of mentorship.

Partnerships To Advance the Value of Education (PAVE)

Lassen Hall 2205

(916) 278-6183

https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/pave/

The PAVE program is the flagship K-12 tutoring/mentoring program in the Division of Student Affairs in the Unit, Student Academic Success and Educational Equity Programs at Sacramento State. Devoted to improving the educational opportunities for K-12 scholars and helping them achieve college, career and life success, the PAVE program works collaboratively with regional K-12 school districts to offer tutoring, mentoring, and college preparedness.

The PAVE program’s extensive K-12 partnership is an important mechanism for achieving the university’s goal as an Anchor University in the region to improve neighborhoods and local school communities. Since its inception, PAVE tutors continues to provide tutoring and mentoring as a supplemental educational service to support our district partners, school sites, students and their families. 

As academic tutors and college role models, student tutors experience a meaningful and structured experiential learning opportunity in which they apply the skills, knowledge, and experiences they gained in their college classroom. Student tutors are trained to support differentiated learning styles and subject matter tutoring in Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts/Literacy, Mathematics and/or the Sciences, as a supplement to teacher instruction and student learning.

Program Goals

• Goal #1. Engage K-12 partners to ensure student’s college preparedness upon admission
• Goal #2. Strengthen existing teacher preparation pipeline as a possible career pathway
• Goal #3. Provide a reflective service learning experience for student academic tutors

The ultimate goal of PAVE is to improve the educational opportunities for K-12 scholars and help them achieve college, career and life success through a positive experiential learning experience from Sacramento State academic tutors.

PAVE is nationally accredited by the National Tutoring Association.

Executive Trainers Program (ETP)

Lassen Hall 2205

(916) 278-6183

https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/executive-trainers-program.html

The Executive Trainers Program is led by a mission of service, activism in day-to-day student success activities, and is designed to promote retention, student persistence, and timely to graduation through executive-level peer leadership programming and interventions that strive to support college degree attainment.

Each semester, in collaboration with faculty members and Office of Graduate Studies, Executive Trainers Program hosts the “Thinking about Graduate School” six-part workshop series that are designed to equip students to evaluate and prepare for the range of post-baccalaureate academic and career options. These workshops are introductory topics of conversation for undergraduates and graduate students alike. 

Speak to Lead 

Lassen Hall 2205

(916) 278-6183
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/retention-academic-success/speak-lead.html

Looking to improve your public speaking and leadership skills? Gain the confidence to speak up? Come and learn with "Speak to Lead" The vast majority of people (75%) rank the fear of public speaking as their number one anxiety –according to the National Institutes of Mental Health. For some people, this means fear of speaking to large groups. For others, it means speaking to even a single person if that person has the power to evaluate you, as in a supervisor, interviewer, or professor giving an oral exam. “Speak to Lead” is a Public Speaking and Leadership Program that provides experiential workshops and practical opportunities for students to radiate confidence in their own communication and leadership skills for personal growth and social intelligence in a variety of speaking situations.

Program benefits

• Practice with a mentor/peer on strategies to improve your communication abilities with others and in a variety of speaking situations.
• Provided with public speaking and communication tips and knowledge that will help reduce your anxiety and improve your overall social performance.
• Participate in an experience with your peers and lead group discussions or meetings guided by a mentor/experts. 

Serna Center

River Front Center 1022
(916) 278-7241

Dr. Viridiana Diaz

Email: viridiaz@csus.edu
http://www.csus.edu/sernacenter

The mission of the Serna Center is to promote, foster, and enhance leadership, empowerment, self-advocacy, and civic engagement among Chicanx/Latinx students, but also, students from other underrepresented backgrounds at Sacramento State. The Center established a strong foundation that enriches cultural identity and develops a sense of familia within the campus.

Dreamer Resource Center (DRC)

River Front Center 1022
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/dreamer-resource-center/

The mission of the Dreamer Resource Center is to make the dream of a college degree a reality for undocumented students and students with mixed-status families at Sacramento State. Services provided by the DRC include free immigration legal consultations, financial aid guidance, scholarship resources, ally trainings, a peer-mentoring program, a support group, and a seminar designed to help undocumented and mixed-status students navigate college. The goals of the DRC are to: (1) provide access to higher education opportunities to undocumented high school, transfer, and graduate students, and those with mixed-status families; (2) provide support to help alleviate the uncertainty that comes from a lack of immigration status; (3) create a campus culture of knowledge and sensitivity to the issues faced by undocumented and mixed-status students; and (4) increase the retention and graduation of undocumented students and students with mixed-status families.

The High School Equivalency Program (HEP)

River Front Center 1022
(916) 278-7241
Director: Andres Enriquez
Email: hep@csus.edu

The High School Equivalency Program (HEP) is a federally funded program that helps migrant and seasonal farmworkers who are 18 years of age or older and not currently enrolled in school to obtain the equivalent to a high school diploma (HSE) and gain employment, go to an institution of higher education, the military, other postsecondary education or vocational training. HEP provides:

• Courses in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies
• Instructors and tutors to help participants make progress in the classroom and prepare them to pass the HSE exam
• Career professionals to assist participants in finding opportunities, post-HSE, to improve their quality of life
• Courses offered in English and Spanish

Migrant Student Leadership Institute (MSLI)

River Front Center 1022
(916) 278-7241
Director: Dr. Viridiana Diaz,

Email: viridiaz@csus.edu

The Migrant Leadership Institute (MSLI) is a residential two-week program for migrant high school students from various regions throughout the state of California. Students are housed on campus providing them an authentic campus life experience; while being mentor by college students, staff, and faculty.

The mission of MSLI is to recruit and prepare students from migrant backgrounds to become college ready, competitive candidates for admission to a four-year institutions and ultimately future leaders in their communities.

The Institute provides students a safe and supportive environment that maximizes learning and allows for self-exploration, reflection, and transformation. Students also earn three-units of college credit upon successfully completing the academic coursework with a grade of C or better. 

Male Empowerment Collaborative (MEC)

Lassen Hall 2205

(916) 278-6183
http://www.csus.edu/saseep/mec
 

"The Male Empowerment Collaborative" (MEC) is committed to addressing the gap between the academic successes of males compared to females. It is committed to the intellectual, spiritual, and economic development of young men in higher education. Like many other universities across the country, retention and graduation rates of males are significantly lower than females. Sacramento State through the MEC has worked for several years to increase the successful passage of males in higher education.

Using a program of support services including events, workshops, and personal advising, the Male Empowerment Collaborative at Sacramento State provides:

• Academic Advocacy
• Educational Empowerment
• Leadership Cultivation
• Academic Advising
• One-on-One and Group Mentorship
• Generalized support in a variety of contexts

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)

Lassen Hall 2205
(916) 278-6183
www.csus.edu/eop

The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) is one of the primary vehicles implemented by the CSU system to increase the access, academic success and retention of educationally and economically disadvantaged students. EOP strives to provide the necessary economic and educational resources to help students realize their academic potential. Students can apply to the EOP Program via the Cal-State Application (for the fall semester only).

The EOP program, enacted by law in 1969, is a state-mandated program that serves First-Time Freshmen and Transfer students. EOP students are California residents from low-income, educationally disadvantaged communities who may not have had the opportunity to prepare adequately for admissions to a four-year college. AB-540/Dream Act students are eligible for EOP services.

The EOP Program provides retention services to all Sacramento State students including; academic advising, career counseling, personal counseling, professional development, educational workshops, social/cultural programing, and peer-mentoring advising. Admitted EOP students who have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $1,500 or less and enroll in 15 units per semester may qualify to receive the EOP Grant. The Financial Aid Office will identify and award the EOP Grant to students.

Admitted EOP First-Time Freshmen students are required to attend a mandatory six-week Summer Bridge Academy Program from (early July through early August). Summer Bridge allows students for a smooth transition into the institution, earn college units, network with peers, meet EOP staff, professors and learn leadership skills.

As part of the First-Year Experience (FYE) First-Time Freshmen & Transfer students are required to enroll in an EOP Learning Community. The Learning Communities are cohort-base and student receive support from their professors, EOP counselor and Instructor Student Assistant. The Learning Communities allow students to navigate the campus, learn about other departments, and enhance their leadership and professional development skills.

General and Continuing Services for current & prospective Students:

• Early Outreach to schools, communities and individuals
• Campus Tours & EOP Presentations
• Assistance with the CSU & EOP Application Process
• EOP New Student Orientation (for admitted students)
• Summer Bridge Academy Program (freshmen only)
• Fall Learning Communities (for incoming students)
• Financial Aid Advising
• EOP Grant
• Professional Development & Career Services
• Academic Success Workshops
• Learning and Study Strategies Workshops
• Student Retention Peer-Graduate Advisors
• Strategic Advising and Retention Services to all class levels (Freshmen through Senior)
• Provide Recommendations/Referrals to other Support Services
• EOP Graduation Ceremony

For EOP Admissions Criteria and Application Process, please click on the following link below;

Fall 2022 - EOP Income Eligibility Criteria (csus.edu)

¹

 See Admission and General Support Programs/Summer Bridge Academy below.

Guardian Scholars Program (GSP)

Lassen Hall 2302
(916) 278-6680
www.csus.edu/gsp

The Guardian Scholars Program (GSP) is a student support service for current and former foster youth. The program office was established in 2006 to assist students in their pursuit of academic and career success. Program components consist of one-unit college strategies courses, one-on-one advising, counseling, financial assistance, workshops, social events, professional mentoring, priority registration, and direct referrals to other programs on-campus.

GSP is open to all Sacramento State students who have been in foster care, kinship care, or homeless situations and are considered “independent” by federal financial aid guidelines. We review applications throughout the year, so there is no deadline to apply. Our staff is committed to helping Guardian Scholars succeed and overcome obstacles to graduating.

All eligible students are encouraged to learn more about and apply to the Guardian Scholars Program by contacting our staff or visiting the Guardian Scholars website at www.csus.edu/gsp.

Summer Bridge Academy (pre-college program)

Lassen Hall 2205
(916) 278-6183
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/educational-opportunity-program/

The Summer Bridge Academy is an educational equity project administered through the Educational Opportunity Program. Summer Bridge is a mandatory six-week intensive academic preparation and college orientation program designed strictly for incoming EOP first-year student to help them make a smooth transition from high school to college. EOP serves economically disadvantaged, first-generation college students.

College level General Education classes are offered in the Academy. Students may complete up to two college courses, including an in-depth Leadership Development course. Summer Bridge also meets Early Start requirements. There is no cost to students.

Successful completion of the courses students may earn 3-5 units of credit. To be considered for the Summer Bridge Academy, students must be admitted to Sacramento State and to EOP. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to apply to the EOP program, via Cal State Apply, during the CSU Application cycle (Oct. 1^st – Nov. 30^th). Students must meet all admission deadlines, as established by the Admissions & Outreach Office to gain admission to EOP and Summer Bridge.

Note: EOP also provides Summer Bridge programming for upper-class level including sophomores and transfer students. 

To learn more about the Summer Bridge Academy, visit or call the EOP office (916) 278-6183 or visit the Academy website at www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/educational-opportunity-program/summer-transitional-programs.html

Faculty/Student Mentor Program (FSMP)

Lassen Hall 2205
(916) 278-6183
www.csus.edu/fsmp

The Faculty Student Mentor Program (FSMP) is an educational equity program designed to offer academic and personal support to students from traditionally low-income communities and selected students who have requested services due to challenges experienced in their education. The Faculty Student Mentor Program’s goals are to increase the retention rates of students by helping them develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to complete their academic goals, introduce the students to a discipline, build communities, and promote excellence.

Faculty and Peer Mentors are key elements to goal attainment. Program participants’ integration into campus life is facilitated by the development of discipline-based faculty and peer mentor teams. The FSMP matches the faculty peer mentor teams with program participants. These teams may organize study sessions, workshops and tutorials in the seven colleges. In addition, the mentors give personal, career and academic advice, and provide referrals to advisors within the departments and other on-campus resources. The teams also plan activities supportive of the students’ interests and needs.

For more information, please call or visit our office.

Peer and Academic Resource Center (PARC)

Lassen Hall 2200
(916) 278-6010
www.csus.edu/parc

The Peer and Academic Resource Center (PARC) is a centralized academic support hub where students are united for common goals of excellence and student success through peer-led and student-driven services. The mission of PARC is to promote the scholastic achievements of students through enriched and supportive academic peer-to-peer learning opportunities that aid students along the pathway to degree attainment. We offer four programs - Supplemental Instruction (SI), Supplemental Instruction (SI) Plus, the Peer-Led Advising for College Experience (PLACE) Program, and the Workshops & Individual Tutorials (WIT) Program.

* Supplemental Instruction (SI) is an international certified academic support program for students who are enrolled in historically-challenging general education (GE) courses. SI provides students credit (1 unit) to learn how to implement transferable academic learning skills and strategies to increase grades in difficult university courses.

* Supplemental Instruction (SI) Plus provides free academic review and test preparation sessions for students enrolled in large lecture courses. These sessions are connected to the SI classes offered by PARC, however, they are open to all students in the class, not just those enrolled in the SI program.

* Peer-Led Advising for College Experience (PLACE) is led by students who are familiar with campus life and resources. This program provides peer-led supplemental advising services for all students on campus. One of the well-known student-advising programs, the Government Odyssey Program, is also housed in the PARC.

* Workshops & Individual Tutorials (WIT) is a free tutoring service (group and individual tutorials) open to all students on campus. The tutorials are taught by trained tutors who are familiar with materials in historically-difficult courses. In addition to helping students develop academic strategies to better understand challenging course materials, WIT has also successfully presented many Academic Support workshops in collaboration with the Academic Advising Center​, the Career Center, and First Year Experience (FYE)​, and Residential Life. Some workshop topics included Time Management, Study Skills, Self-Care, among other topics. We also offer workshops on culturally inclusive behavior and intercultural communication skills.

All of these programs assist students in collaboratively learning about how to be a successful student and how to successfully navigate the demands of the academic community. Our motto embodies who we are as a Center: Successful students promoting student success!

Disability Access Center (DAC)

Lassen Hall 1008
(916) 278-6955 (voice) or (916) 278-7239 (TDD only), (916) 278-7825 (fax)

https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/disability-access-center/ (web)
dac@csus.edu (Email)
DAC services are located in three different buildings. The Access Coordinators and ASL/CART services are housed in 1008 Lassen. The Assistive Technology Lab as well as the Disability Cultural Center (DCC), with Sensory Room are located in 2011 AIRS, and the Academic Testing Center (TC) is housed in the lower level of the Library. Regular hours for all three areas are 8am-5pm M-F while classes are in session. During the summer hours, the hours for all three areas are 7:30am- 4pm.

To be eligible for DAC disability-related academic accommodation services, applicants must submit a completed DAC application along with current medical documentation verifying disability and functional limitations. Accommodations are not in effect until approved. Sac State students must submit approved accommodation letters to faculty EACH semester accommodations will be required. Accommodations are not retroactive, so students are encouraged to get their letters to faculty as early as possible each semester.

DAC serves all matriculated Sacramento State students including international. All DAC students are served under the CSU Policy for the Provision of Accommodations and Support Services to Students with Disabilities.

Assistive Technology Lab (ATL)
The Assistive Technology Lab ensures DAC students, with print disabilities, have equal access to instructional materials. The ATL staff convert books and required course information into accessible formats. DAC students are encouraged to use the computer lab, where assistive hardware and software is available to qualified students, based on referrals from DAC Access Coordinators. This space also is shared with the Disability Cultural Center (DCC). To learn more about qualification criteria and services for ATL, contact dac@csus.edu.

Disability Cultural Center (DCC) 
The Disability Cultural Center provides a welcoming and safe space for DAC students and their allies to study, socialize, and to engage in social and educational events that provide students the opportunity to meet each other, learn more about disability rights, disability history and disability identity, and strategies for enhancing personal, social, academic and career success while also managing personal disability conditions. Also located in the DCC is the Sensory Room, equipped with adjustable lights, rocking chair, tactile equipment and other materials to be used while in the space. The DCC shares space with the Assistive Technology Lab (ATL).

Academic Testing Center (ATC)

Lower-Level Library, Room 14
(916) 278-6296
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/testing-center/

The Academic Testing Center (ATC) currently oversees the administration of classroom exams on behalf of Sacramento State instructors for individual and/or small groups of students requiring a reduced-distraction environment and additional testing accommodations. Furthermore, the ATC accommodates students in need of make-up exams or enrolled in correspondence courses, along with community members undergoing licensure or certification exams requiring proctoring.

Students seeking disability-related accommodations must apply to Disability Access Center (DAC) to determine eligibility for this service. Tests are conducted in lower-distraction classrooms, equipped with adjustable height tables, and essential assistive technology.

In addition to its core services, the Academic Testing Center offers proctoring services for make-up tests at a fee. Sacramento State students, with instructor permission, can schedule appointments for classroom exams, including those with class conflicts. The ATC also provides proctoring services, at a fee, for individuals needing to take tests for other universities, colleges, or agencies.

As a Pearson VUE Authorized Testing Center, the ATC facilitates licensure/certification tests such as CBEST, RICA, CSET, and various IT exams for students, community members, and faculty/staff. It also serves as an ATI TEAS test site, enabling students to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam, an entrance exam for Nursing and Allied Health schools.
For comprehensive information about the diverse services offered by the Academic Testing Center, please refer to their website.

For more information on the various Academic Testing Center services, please visit their website. 

Crisis Assistance and Resource Education Support (CARES) Office

CARES Office suite is located in University Union Suite1260 / Business Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-4pm

 (916) 278-5138

cares@csus.edu

https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/crisis-assistance-resource-education-support/

The Sacramento State CARES  Office provides assistance to students who are in crisis or experiencing unique challenges to their education.

CARES Case Managers can coordinate referrals to campus and community resources, and offer follow-up support to address a variety of issues including, but not limited to:

• Housing displacement
• Transportation barriers
• Financial Emergencies
• Food insecurity
• Mental health and wellness
• Physical health and wellness
• Transition back to campus following a hospitalization

Additional Services and Support:

• Assistance with CalFresh applications
• Student Emergency Housing on campus
• Student Emergency Fund
• Low-Income Student Housing (Rapid Rehousing)
• Advocacy (for accessing resources)
• Faculty and staff workshops on working with students in distress

Basic Needs Initiative

Division of Student Affairs
(916) 278-6060
http://csus.edu/basicneeds/

The Basic Needs Initiative provides a variety of resources to meet the housing, food, and financial needs of students. Basic Needs are the minimum necessary elements that people need in order to succeed in their goals; these include food, clothing, shelter, safety. If you are experiencing challenges with food access, housing, or finances, Sacramento State wants to ensure you have resources available to you in your time of need.

We know that Basic Needs security is essential to academic success. We encourage you to leverage your resources and utilize the options on the Basic Needs Website.

Throughout the website, you will see tips on how to use these resources in order to address Basic Needs Challenges. We hope that you leverage all your resources creatively and in a way that works for you, we know that there are many ways to be a student (full-time vs. part-time, students with children, students with disabilities, students without parental support, students without FAFSA aid, etc.) so, creating a plan unique to your needs is important.

If you have any questions or need assistance creating your Basic Needs Support plan, please contact our CARES Office cares@csus.edu or 916-278-5138.

Project Rebound

Aaron Greene

Division of Student Affairs

Lassen Hall 2104
(916) 278-6794
https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/project-rebound/

Project Rebound (PR) is a growing collaboration of college support programs uniquely equipped to help formerly incarcerated people access and navigate higher education at California State Universities.  Founded in 1967 at San Francisco State (SFSU) by Dr. John Irwin, who had been incarcerated before earning his Ph.D., he became a tenured professor at SFSU for 26 years and cultivated PR's philosophy for others to implement.  In 2015, Project Rebound moved beyond the confines of SFSU onto eight other California State University (CSU) campuses, including Sacramento State; currently. Project Rebound can be found on 14 CSU campuses, with several other campuses developing programs.   

Project Rebound is a program to assist formerly incarcerated students in preparing for, applying to, enrolling in, and graduating with a high-quality degree from Sacramento State.  Project Rebound supports each student to ensure their optimal success at the University.  The program offers academic and financial counseling, referrals, peer mentoring, tutoring, and career development.  The program addresses students' basic needs, enabling them to focus on their studies and achieve educational and personal empowerment.