Chingla Thao

Chingla Thao headshot

Student services advisor

360 Education Sciences Building
For appointments, call 612-625-3339 or schedule online.
Direct: 612-625-4960
thao0938@umn.edu

About me

I am excited to return to CEHD! I started at the University of Minnesota in 2020, but took a brief absence to focus on self-care and family needs. By taking a step back and reflecting on the world we live in now, I was able to gain a much better perspective and appreciation for all the things that we often take for granted in life.

An important milestone in my life journey was attending and graduating from Gustavus Adolphus College in 2005. As a first-generation college student, this achievement was significant for myself and my family because I was the first to do it.

Since 2007, I have devoted myself to working in education by serving a wide range of students from kindergarten to higher education. I had opportunities to work in different education systems, and in various roles, which taught me a great deal about student challenges, triumphs, advocacy and relationship building.

In 2018, I earned my Master’s Degree in School Counseling from the University of Wisconsin, River Falls. During this period of my life, I really had my work cut out for me trying to balance graduate school, work and raising a family. However, seeing my kids at my graduation was one of the most rewarding moments of my life. What got me through that phase was the mantra that tough times don't last, tough people do.

Currently, I keep a pretty busy schedule with 7 kids - all ages ranging from high school to elementary. When I am away from the office, there is a good chance that I am tricking my kids into learning, road tripping or fishing. As a native Minnesotan, I enjoy the 10,000+ lakes that our state has to offer for some quality bass fishing. You can catch me sometimes behind the EdSci building on the Mississippi bank below. Tight lines! Stay calm and fish on!

Drop-in advising

Drop-in advising is available over Zoom. Check with your advisor for their weekly availability.

Drop-in advising is usually limited to a 10 to 15 minute session. Students needing more time should schedule a 30 minute appointment by calling Student Services at 612-625-3339.

Example of issues for drop-in advising

  • Review of classes and class schedule
  • APAS review and updates
  • Petition discussions
  • Signatures for academic forms
  • Short Q&A
  • General discussion
  • Non-academic topics (such as time management, connecting on campus, etc.)