Students choose to transfer colleges for many reasons, including cost-effectiveness, proximity to home, pursuing a new major, or seeking a better campus experience.

Whatever the reason, transferring colleges is more common, normal, and easier than ever before.

However, one common concern among transfer students is access to the academic transfer resources needed to succeed at their new institution. This article will unpack the college transfer resources students should look for when settling into a new school.

When should students transfer?

Transferring colleges is an important and personal decision that students should not take lightly. Students should assess their current situation carefully and honestly by asking themselves questions like:

• Credit acceptance: Will my current credits transfer towards my desired degree program at the new school?
• Cost: Can I afford the transfer, including tuition, living expenses, and potential additional credits?
• Future success: Does the potential institution offer the resources and programs necessary for future success?
• Target school: Which college or university aligns best with my academic needs, interests, and goals?
• Transfer timing: When would transferring be most beneficial?

Students should not feel as though they have to make this monumental decision alone. For guidance and feedback, it’s important to talk to family, mentors, and academic advisors at their current institution and the institution students want to transfer to.

What college transfer resources are available?

Every college and university’s transfer resources vary, so students should research and talk with a school’s transfer admissions team to help them throughout the transfer application and enrollment process.

These advisors are often the most critical resource a student has, as they can guide you through the application and enrollment process, including understanding credit transfer procedures and selecting an academic program.

At University of Bridgeport, the academic transfer resources are part of the Heckman Center. Whatever institution you consider, look for similar resources to support your transfer process.

Tutoring services

Tutoring services provide personalized academic support by helping students develop effective study strategies, improve critical thinking skills, and master challenging course content. This is especially helpful for transfer students adjusting to a new academic environment.

For example, UB’s Tutoring Learning Center (TLC) supports undergraduate and graduate classroom instruction by providing academic assistance to students through tutoring, workshops, study groups, and supplemental instruction.

Academic advising

Academic advisors serve as guides and sounding boards throughout a student’s academic journey.

At University of Bridgeport, this takes place in our Academic Advising Center (AAC), where all undergraduate students, primarily first-year and transfer students, foster academic excellence, personal responsibility, and commitment to service.

Our advisors guide students in developing an academic program that aligns with their goals and strengths while exploring their interests, values, skills, and abilities inside and outside the classroom.

Transfer students should look for the following academic advising transfer resources:

• Academic advisement: Experienced academic advisors provide personalized guidance for transfer students by evaluating transferred credits and determining whether they will apply correctly to their desired degree program. They can also help identify any gaps in coursework and recommend additional courses to fulfill degree requirements.
• Academic coaching: Coaches work with students to develop study habits, time management skills, and organizational strategies. They also serve as a source of encouragement and support for transfer students adjusting to new academic environments.
• Connecting to other campus resources: Advisors help students connect with other campus resources, including writing centers, disability services, student clubs and organizations, and mental health counseling services, depending on individual needs.
• Major and career exploration: Academic advisors provide students with information about different majors and career options. Not to mention, that they make sure a student’s academic choices match their future goals.
• Schedule building and class selection: Students work with their advisors to create a balanced schedule by considering their credits, prerequisites, graduation requirements, and learning preferences.
• Success strategies: Students should look for support in interpreting course syllabi, utilizing online learning platforms, participating actively in class discussions, and managing their workload.

Plan your transition: Schedule your UB tour!

Counselors

Many schools and universities offer counseling services to address and further strengthen their students’ emotional and mental well-being. This support is also beneficial for transfer students who are often moving to a new location and undergoing other significant life changes.

For example, at University of Bridgeport, the Student Support Services Program (SSS), funded by the Federal TRIO programs, helps students through:

• ExCEL Peer Mentor programs: This program pairs first-year and new transfer students with upper-level students who provide support and guidance that promotes social and academic success.
• Personal advising: Our advisors identify the options and resources available to help students resolve issues and reduce stress.
• Workshops and seminars: These events cover topics such as note-taking, time management, developing good study habits, overcoming test anxiety, stress management, learning styles, financial literacy, career planning, and applying to graduate schools. These events are provided throughout the semester.

Library resources

Libraries on college campuses offer a variety of resources essential for academic success, including access to databases, journals, eBooks, and streaming video content. Librarians can also provide additional support and assistance in using these resources and conducting effective research.

The Wahlstrom Library at University of Bridgeport offers comfortable, open, and varied spaces for study, collaboration, computing, reflection, and relaxation. It is staffed by professional librarians seven days a week and offers sixty-eight PCs and over one hundred docking stations.

Plus, the Wahlstrom Library Platform is always available and acts as a one-stop delivery mechanism for information. It is accessible from anywhere worldwide, and no additional logins or passwords are needed for students on and off campus.

Transferring to University of Bridgeport

While the transferring process and being a transfer student can feel daunting, college transfer resources can make sure you have a seamless transition and positive experience at your new school.

By researching available resources at your chosen institution, utilizing support services like tutoring and advising, and connecting with helpful individuals like librarians and advisors, you can set yourself up for personal and academic success at your new school.

Our admissions team at University of Bridgeport is here to help you find the program that best fits your personal and professional goals and guide you through the transfer admissions process from start to finish.

Start your application today and join the Purple Knight family!