Tip #1: Start thinking about transfer RIGHT NOW!

 

The transfer process is a long and demanding process.  As a community college student, you should starting thinking about your post-Associate's degree options the first day you step foot on campus.  You have such a short period of time (2 years) at LaGuardia that you have to take advantage of every opportunity, from your course selection to extracurricular activities.  Then there is writing the personal statement, which takes much thought and time.  It never hurts to start early.  Don’t let procrastination bite you!

 

Tip #2: Get involved!

 

If you are reading this, then you have taken initiative to increase your chances and improve.  Whether you are considering transferring or not, becoming involved in volunteer opportunities and/or extracurricular activities not only looks great on your resume, but also allows you to network and gain experience.  There are so many clubs and student organizations at LaGuardia, but becoming an active member of HSAC (the Honors Student Advisory Committee) had a major impact on my LaGuardia experience.  I was also able to take advantage of helping my professors with their research, forming a Fed Challenge team, and being part of the President's Society.  All of these extracurricular activities helped me develop academically and personally, and they put my name out there amongst the students, faculty, and college administration!

 

Tip #3: Have a support team

 

Behind every successful person, there is always a person or a group of people that made a significant contribution to that success.   Having a support team during your transfer process will serve as a strong moral booster when things look tough. Make sure to have a team that will provide insightful perspectives and suggestions.  There isn’t any better support system than HSAC, so feel free to talk to HSAC members at the Honors House (M-222), to your friends, mentors, or professors.

 

Tip #4: Don’t take things for granted

 

Whenever we get comfortable, we run the risk of taking things for granted, and thus lose out on great opportunities.  Always be alert because you never know when you can assist someone or take advantage of a great opportunity.  Sometimes it is about being at the right place at the right time, but a major part of success is taking personal responsibility and action.  Make sure that you are on top of deadlines, documents, and so forth.  Always keep copies of documents you send out to admissions offices and always follow-up.

 

Tip #5: Making the Decision

 

Unfortunately, I won’t be able to provide you with an exact formula for choosing which college/university to attend because there isn’t one.  What I will tell you is that there are a lot of factors to take into consideration, and they are basically the same ones that led you apply to the respective college/university in the first place.  Those factors include: academics, location, campus life, affordability, and etc.  One thing I will recommend is to not rush, but to take the time to consider all of the options. Talk to your professors, mentors, and people who have attended the college/university.

 

Now that you took some time to read this short list of tips, I hope you have been inspired and motivated to tackle the juggernaut of the transfer process.  Stay connected with the Honors Program and HSAC, and best of luck!  HOYA SAXA!  Si Se Puede!