Transfer Students

I have been working with a few students who are looking to transfer to a different college/university.  When you have made the decision to transfer from your current university it is very important to take time to really research where you want to complete your college education.  Requirements for transfer students are different than for freshman admission.  Take Seattle University....which admits students on a rolling basis (meaning they assess and admit you as soon as they receive all your documentation).  If you are looking to transfer to Seattle University with fewer than 45 college credits, you will need to send in your high school transcript.  And, while you do not need a college instructor evaluation, you can send in letters of recommendation that the admissions committee with take into consideration.  And, they do not require a SAT/ACT if you have over 45 credits.  Also, if you have taken a break from college it is important to include a statement on what activities you have done while on your break.  Seattle University requires a minimum of a 2.75 for transfer students but last year their average transfers' GPA was 3.34.  I really like the way Seattle University has an easy on-line way to check on which of your courses will transfer to Seattle U.  It is always a big concern that you have a lot of credits but most colleges will not take all of them.  And, for heaven's sake, contact the admissions officer.  They are your best friends. Let them know you want to transfer to their university. 

Another important facet of transferring is to really look at your choice of a major.  You have had at least one year of college under your belt, SO the big question is, "What do you want to major in?" What kind of career do you want to have?"  While most freshman don't need to know, definitively, their major, as an upper classman you will be concentrating on your major.  A lot of my clients talk about wanting to major in business.  Well, if that is the case, you really need to look at your chosen college's majors.  For example, Seattle University doesn't have a business degree.  What they have are degrees in:  Accounting, International Business, Economics, Business Economics, International Economic Development, Management, Marketing, Finance and E-commerce/information systems.  So you can see why asking for a "business major" really is not specific enough.  To help you make your decision, scan the university course selection.  See what courses are required in each major.  Do any of them "ring a bell" for you?  Do any of them intrique you?  Have you worked in any jobs that included marketing, management, information systems?  Did you like that job?  Did you thrive in that job?  Spend some time asking family, neighbors and friends why they like their career. 

So, you have made your decision to transfer, you know your major and really researched your schools.  Don't waste time!  Send that application in.