Path to enlightenment

“The essence of education is self-discovery.”
—Chico State President Paul Zingg in his 2007 commencement address

Welcome to college, Chico style! (If you’ve been here before, welcome back!)

Yes, indeed, college years mark a time for self-discovery. You’re on your own now, freshmen— responsible for yourself, for better or worse. How you live is up to you.

We’re probably not telling you anything new here. And you’ve probably already heard that many lessons in life have to be learned the hard way.

Not necessarily so!

Sure, you’ll learn to go over a contract after you sign your life away for a rundown apartment with a leaky roof and rabid rats. You’ll learn your designer clothes can cost as little as a latte … if you know where you buy. And you’ll learn, contrary to what you may read, that Blood of Cain is a way better metal band than The Makai.

But isn’t it better to avoid mistakes before they bite you?

For centuries, gurus have helped disciples on the path to enlightenment. So, for our annual orientation issue, we decided to pick some transcendent mentors to guide you through our rarified city. Some are writers and editors from

the CN&R. Others are outside experts, such as Martin Roland, who knows adventure when he sees it.

From room and board to work and play, we’ve got you covered.

“In the kingdom of the blind, the one-eyed man is king.” (Yet another proverb.) Read through Goin’ Chico, look for the Chico News & Review each Thursday, and you’ll see just where to go.