First-Year Leadership Opportunity (FLO) is an Associated Student program designed specifically for first-year students looking for ways to get involved with the Chico State campus and community. Each month one member is chosen by their fellow FLO members and peers as the person who has stood out and shown FLO’s core values. This month's FLO representative is Patrick Mulligan.
What inspired you to get involved with FLO, and how long have you been a member?
I have been a member since the start of the fall 2023 semester. I was inspired to join because throughout most of my life, I have enjoyed leadership, and I wanted to get a head start my freshman year.
How has FLO affected or influenced your experiences here at Chico State?
It has made the experience much easier. Going into college for the first time can be a little scary, but the community that we have in FLO makes it much easier and really gives you the opportunity to connect with more students. It has helped me feel more at home here at Chico State.
How has your involvement with FLO impacted your personal and professional life?
It has impacted my professional life by making me more aware of the opportunities that lie around campus. It allows me to better plan for the future on what I will be doing around campus in the coming years.
In your opinion, what role does recognition and appreciation play in building a strong and supportive community like FLO?
It motivates students to be more proactive in their communities. Recognizing the hard work a student does encourages them to do more of it, and we want to encourage the best in our fellow students. The more supported they feel, the more likely they are to be supportive of others. Building that friendly community will make a big difference in the lives of every college student here.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with FLO or a similar program?
I would say get involved with the campus as early as possible. You will gain some much valuable experience and friends from it. The difference it will make on your college experience is tremendous. JUST GET INVOLVED and contribute to the community and those around you.
What are your goals and aspirations for the rest of your time here at Chico State?
I plan to get more involved with the business organizations on campus, like Phi Chi Theta and the CEO club, as well as grow my abilities as a student. Most importantly, I want to have a profound and positive impact on the culture here at Chico State and motivate more students to be the best they can be.
Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for your continued involvement in FLO and the Associated Students, and how do you see this achievement fitting into that vision?
My goals are to continue participating in FLO as an active member and help motivate everyone around me. I want to build up my involvement and leadership within the student community and help Chico State grow to be the best it has ever been.
My name is Patrick Mulligan. I am originally from Lodi, California, and I am studying Business Administration here at Chico State. With my passion for leadership and community, one of my goals would be to start a company someday.
