About This Episode

Season 7. Episode 7.

In this episode of Education Insight, we explore the powerful intersection of rural identity, higher education, and belonging with Dr. Karen Schreder, Professor of Education at Chico State University and founder of the North State Student Ambassadors Program.

Serving one of the largest rural regions in California, Chico State enrolls students whose home communities are often small, tight-knit, and geographically isolated. Dr. Schreder explains that while rural students bring resilience, deep community ties, and a strong work ethic to campus, they can also face challenges that are not always visible… feelings of isolation, cultural misunderstandings, and the pressure of leaving home to pursue opportunity.

The North State Student Ambassadors Program was created in response to those challenges. Through leadership development, structured conversations with campus leaders, and outreach back to rural high schools, the program helps students see their backgrounds not as barriers, but as strengths. Participants gain confidence, build community on campus, and return to their hometowns as visible examples of what is possible.

Dr. Schreder shares how simple yet intentional elements, such as creating a physical gathering space or hosting “Power Hours” with university administrators, can significantly change a student’s sense of belonging. She also addresses common misconceptions about rural students, challenging the assumption that they fit a single mold or pursue only certain majors.

Ultimately, this episode highlights what happens when institutions recognize that access to college is only the first step. True success requires belonging, visibility, and leadership opportunities that honor where students come from while helping them move forward.

Featured Guest

Dr. Karen Schreder

Regional Faculty Fellow, California State University

Biography

Dr. Karen Schreder is the Regional Faculty Fellow at California State University. Karen is an assistant professor in the School of Educator, specializing in special education, and has been a resident of Butte County for 28 years. Dr. Schreder taught in Tehama County as a special educator, working in rural schools for most of her teaching career. As the Regional Faculty Fellow at Chico State, Karen works with Student Ambassadors from rural regions. The Student Ambassador’s activities include community asset mapping and connecting with local high school students and community partners. The students also engage in undergraduate research, focusing on topics that touch rural communities. Karen and the student ambassadors connect with their communities, conduct relevant research, and work to advocate for, and amplify the richness and diversity of our north state region.