Transfer students are a population often lost in the cracks of college life. Because she/he is viewed as a mature student who knows the ropes of college life, advisors may be quick to dismiss subtle signs of distress.
Transfer students may be reluctant to reach out to advisors for assistance as they feel they should be able to manage college life. In reality, most transfer students are used to the style of services offered at their previous institution. These students may feel like "a fish out of water" and become quickly discouraged. The first meeting is crucial.
Transfer students:
Need quick placement into an "academic home."
Want to experience a warm welcome from advisor.
Have as great of a need for information on academic policies and general campus information as new students.
Want to be treated as a mature student while still receiving the information deemed pertinent to a new student.
Will have a need for substantial contact during the first term.
Will have a need to review transfer hours.
May have misinformation or a preconceived notion regarding transfer hours.
May need to be briefed about transfer policies (i.e. GPA, transfer credit evaluations)
Advisors may:
Request that Registrar’s office evaluate transfer work.
Initiate interaction with other students in similar major.
Create a working knowledge of general "transfer pitfalls" in their department.
