Published 2013-04-02T15:02:00Z”/>
Nicole Santos
On my walk to my classes in the Performing Arts Center I’ve witnessed moms laying on the lawn area in front of Kendall Hall watching their children chase each other, an elderly couple embracing one another under the trees by Trinity Hall and a dad and his son on the stairs in front of the Marketplace Cafe enjoying quality time over snacks.
Over the past three weeks, I’ve noticed a large family presence on our campus.
This is my second year at Chico State and after taking into account the families and older couples I’ve seen, it’s evident that something about our campus is inviting and provides a comforting atmosphere for families to enjoy.
I think our campus is beautiful with the creek flowing through the heart of the school, the shaded lawn areas provided by the trees and the rose garden located not too far from the outdoor patio of Selvester’s Cafe-by-the-Creek.
I could go on and on, but my point is: who wouldn’t want to experience the beauty of our campus? Whether you’re a student, parent, young child or senior citizen, the Chico State grounds are a beautiful place to enjoy many different activities.
Groups of families enjoying the scenery represent a closeness that the university shares with the Chico community and I think this presents our school in a positive light.
It’s as if our university is a symbol for uniting people together no matter their age.
I think family presence is important to have on a college campus and for students to witness because I believe family and unity are two necessities to a fulfilling life.
I find the presence of families heartwarming.
Every time I catch a glimpse of a mom and her daughter it makes me question, “Have I connected with my own family recently?”
It’s easy to forget to call your family to let them know that you’re in fact alive and school’s going well.
Seeing families on campus remind me to connect with my own even if it’s a just quick phone call between classes.
I’m always curious as to whether the mothers, fathers and elderly couples are alumni of Chico State or just locals passing through and wanting to take a break.
Perhaps some of the women are wives of some of our male professors bringing the kids by to see their dads on a break. I know the wife of my Acappella choir professor enjoys bringing their son in every once in a while to hear us sing.
Although it’s obvious that a family presence is visible at Chico State during the week, it’s even more apparent during the weekend.
If you’re walking to the ATM to grab some cash or heading back to the dorms with roommates after grabbing a bite downtown, you’ve probably observed wedding parties gathered outside Kendall Hall and Laxson Auditorium preparing to take photos of the newlyweds and their families.
With Bidwell Presbyterian church right next door to campus, our university provides the perfect outdoor backdrop for wedding photos, even family portraits.
You’ve probably also seen my favorite family encounter, where families take group photos with their children, who are most likely Chico State students, at the brick sign that displays our university’s name on Kendall Hall lawn.
I feel fortunate to attend a university where not only the students, but families and members of the Chico community are creating memories on our campus that are sure to last a lifetime.
When I have children of my own, I can’t wait to show them the university campus their mom graduated from.
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<strong>Nicole Santos can be reached at</strong> <a href=”mailto:[email protected]”><em>[email protected]</em></a>
