Transfer Tactics: It's a Whole New U!
How do you determine what college is right for you?
It's never too early to start planning when it comes to transferring to a four-year college. There are many factors to consider when searching for the ideal college that will best complement your needs. The more time you invest in researching the transfer process, the more time you will have to enjoy a smooth transition and an exciting college experience!
- Meet with an advisor or academic counselor at your community college to review your academic goals and obtain information about transferring. Enroll in courses that will satisfy the specific requirements for your degree including prerequisites and recommended courses.
- Determine which college characteristics are important factors in making your selection. Things to consider include degree programs, size, cost, location, academic organizations, work study internships, athletics, housing, diversity, childcare and healthcare services, campus environment and accessibility, study abroad programs, tutoring, mentoring, counseling, and transportation.
- Attend college transfer fairs on your campus. College fairs provide an excellent opportunity to ask questions and pick up information about the application process and course requirements. Check catalogs of several colleges for their transfer and course requirements before making your final decision.
- Visit colleges you're interested in. This is a great way to see if a college is a good fit for you. If possible, visit a class in your department, stop by the career center, grab a meal in the student union, and tour the city where the college is located. Be sure to schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor, academic advisor and financial aid/ scholarship officer while you are there.
- Can't make it to the campus? Surf the college website! Many colleges have extensive websites that allow you to virtually tour the campus and access admission information online. Get a feel for campus happenings by browsing the student newspaper online and visit links that provide information about student organizations.
- Find out about scholarships, grants or financial assistance you are eligible to receive. Make sure all documents are submitted well in advance of the deadline. You need to fill out the Federal Application for Student Aid at www.fafsa.ed.gov between January 1 and March 1.
- Start making contacts! Once you have decided which college best complements your personal and academic requirements, contact the office of admissions to start the application process. Keep in touch with the admission and outreach counselors, who can provide you important dates and deadline information.
- Have an alternative plan. If you have done your research, then you should feel confident of your chances to be admitted at any given school. You should still have "alternatives" if everything doesn't happen exactly as planned.
The transfer process doesn't have to be an overwhelming one. Once you find a few colleges that you like, you'll be well on your way to finding the college that's right for you!
Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarships
Phi Theta Kappa works with four-year colleges and universities to secure new transfer scholarships for Phi Theta Kappa members. Currently more than 600 colleges and universities offer scholarships totaling $36 million annually.
Complete information on all designated transfer scholarships is available in the eScholarship Directory at www.ptk.org/schol/ schol_dir.htm.
The eScholarship Directory was recently updated for the coming academic year. A total of 30 new scholarships for Phi Theta Kappa members have been established during the 2006 calendar year.
