ASU Local graduate turns passion for history into a path toward reimagining education
First-generation college student Lily Chalais graduates this spring with a bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in geography. Photo by Matt Palanca
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable
By Maira Hernandez
For Lily Chalais, earning a college degree required balancing ambition with responsibility. As a first-generation college student, she worked two jobs while attending school full-time, building a schedule that demanded discipline, resilience and careful time management.
This spring, Chalais graduates from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in geography after helping shape ASU Local – Long Beach during its inaugural year.
She attended ASU via ASU Local, a hybrid program pairing online coursework with in-person coaching and mentorship.
The flexibility of ASU Local allowed Chalais to continue progressing toward her degree while maintaining steady employment. During college, she worked with California State Parks and at the San Juan Capistrano Mission, where she shared her passion for history with visitors and guests.
Her days often stretched late into the evening as she commuted from Orange County to participate in ASU Local’s programming and community events in Long Beach after work.
Balancing two jobs alongside a full course load was not always easy, but the experience strengthened her ability to manage competing priorities while remaining focused on her long-term goals.
As part of ASU Local – Long Beach’s first cohort, Chalais experienced the launch of a new educational model designed for students balancing careers, financial responsibilities and other commitments outside the classroom. The program’s flexibility and evening programming created an opportunity for her to continue building momentum toward graduation without stepping away from work.
Outside the classroom, Chalais’ interest in history extended directly into her professional experiences. Her work with California State Parks and the San Juan Capistrano Mission deepened her appreciation for public history, preservation and education.
Looking ahead, Chalais is considering returning to school to pursue a master’s degree. She is exploring future opportunities in teaching, while also developing an interest in the intersection of entrepreneurship and education and how innovative approaches can help reshape learning experiences for future students.
Learn more about ASU Local at asulocal.asu.edu.
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