Neglected Stars: The Promise of Transfer Students

When I graduated high school, I was thrilled to start my college journey at Stony Brook University. However, after my first year, it became clear that Stony Brook was not the right fit for me. The excitement and anticipation I had felt turned into frustration and uncertainty as I considered my options. In the end, I decided to transfer to CUNY Brooklyn College, hoping to find a better environment for my academic and personal growth.

Transferring, however, was no easy feat. The process was cumbersome and overwhelming. I had to navigate the intricate system of getting my transfer credits approved, ensuring I stayed on track to graduate within four years. The experience required persistence, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the transfer process – something that wasn't readily available. Had I not taken the initiative to manage my transfer credits meticulously - in some moments by having a department head review my syllabi in person - my undergraduate degree would have taken longer to complete, costing me more time and money.

My experience is not unique. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, about 38% of college students will transfer at least once within six years. Transfer students are less likely to complete their degrees within six years compared to those who start and finish at the same institution. Research indicates that transfer students often face challenges with credit transfer, with about 43% of their credits being lost during the transfer process. In fact, only 16% of community college students that transfer earn a bachelor's degree. Sixteen percent!

I have confirmed these experiences through multiple roles I’ve had in higher education. As a student, I know firsthand the difficulties of transferring. At CUNY and NYU, I was heavily involved in the transfer credit evaluation process. My research on student loan repayment also highlights that transfer students are among the most disadvantaged and often struggle to repay student loans. This struggle is likely due to the complexities of transferring, which can delay graduation and increase costs, preventing students from obtaining the credentials necessary for higher-paying jobs.

Given these insights, it's clear that both colleges and mainstream media should pay more attention to transfer students in their marketing and media reporting. Colleges need to highlight the resources and support available to transfer students to attract this committed and diverse group. Similarly, mainstream media should bring more visibility to the challenges and successes of transfer students, helping to normalize their experiences and encourage institutions to address their unique needs.

The Benefits of Targeting Transfer Students:

1. Committed to Completion: Transfer students have already invested in their education, demonstrating a strong commitment to completing their degrees. This drive can result in higher retention and graduation rates for universities.

2. Experience and Maturity: Having experienced college life, transfer students often have better-developed study habits and a clearer understanding of their academic and career goals. This maturity can positively impact their academic performance and engagement.

3. Boosting Enrollment: With many colleges facing declining enrollments, transfer students offer a valuable opportunity to fill seats in various programs. Departments with dwindling enrollment can benefit significantly from an influx of transfer students.

4. Diverse Perspectives: Transfer students bring diverse experiences and perspectives to the campus community, enriching classroom discussions and contributing to a more inclusive academic environment.

5. Efficient Use of Resources: Since transfer students typically have completed general education requirements, they can focus on upper-division courses, making efficient use of institutional resources and potentially graduating more quickly.

6. Strategic Partnerships: By forming articulation agreements with community colleges and other institutions, universities can create clear pathways for transfer students, enhancing their appeal to this demographic and streamlining the admissions process.

Policymakers should recognize the unique challenges faced by transfer students and work to create policies that facilitate smoother transitions between institutions. This could include standardizing credit transfer processes, increasing funding for transfer student support services, and incentivizing colleges to develop articulation agreements. By supporting transfer students, policymakers can help reduce student loan default rates and ensure a more educated workforce.

Recognizing these challenges and potential solutions, it's also crucial to provide prospective transfer students with practical advice to navigate their own journeys successfully. Here are some tips to help transfer students make the most of their experience:

Tips for Prospective Transfer Students:

1. Collect Syllabi Early: If you know you will be transferring before you leave your current school, start collecting the syllabi from all your classes. These documents are invaluable when applying for transfer credit at your new institution. They provide detailed descriptions of course content, which can help the new school determine if your credits can be accepted.

2. Reach Out Directly: Don’t be afraid to contact the admissions offices and academic departments at the school you’re transferring to. Establishing a direct line of communication can provide clarity and expedite the transfer process. Ask specific questions about credit transfer policies and any additional documentation you might need.

3. Understand Transfer Agreements: Some colleges have articulation agreements with other institutions, which outline a pathway for credits to be transferred seamlessly. Research whether your current school has such agreements with the schools you’re interested in transferring to.

4. Stay Organized: Keep detailed records of all your academic documents, including transcripts, syllabi, and communication with admissions offices. Being organized can help you quickly provide any information that might be requested during the transfer process.

5. Seek Support: Utilize the resources available at your current and prospective schools. Academic advisors, transfer coordinators, and peer mentors can provide guidance and support throughout your transition.

Transfer students deserve more attention and support within the admissions process. By acknowledging their unique challenges and providing the necessary resources, institutions can help transfer students achieve their educational goals and see a return on their investment. Targeting transfer students can also bring significant benefits to universities, from boosting enrollment to enhancing the diversity and maturity of the student body. Additionally, policymakers have a crucial role to play in creating an educational landscape that supports the success of transfer students, ultimately contributing to a more robust and equitable higher education system.

If you’re a transfer student seeking guidance or an institution looking to better support your transfer population, ClarifyEd is here to help. Our dedicated team provides personalized coaching and strategic insights to ensure a smooth and successful transfer experience. Visit ClarifyEd to learn more and start your journey with confidence. Dr. Minott