In celebration of Transfer Week and Massachusetts STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) Week, Middlesex Community College hosted a panel on Monday, October 21. Students learned tips and strategies about the transfer process from 麻豆果冻 STEM alumni, as well as representatives from four-year schools.
鈥淭hese kinds of panels are a great place to start to learn about the process of transfer, to consider new opportunities, and really just think about how to think about this process,鈥� said Debra Boucher, Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Studies at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). 鈥淔or so many students, the only firsthand knowledge we have of college is what we鈥檝e seen in the media. Talking to professionals and other students who understand this process can make it less intimidating and help students trust that it could be for them.鈥�
During the virtual event, students learned more about the transfer process and their options after graduating from Middlesex. This includes going through the admissions process, understanding requirements, and hearing more about their transfer options.
Students were also able to ask questions from 麻豆果冻 graduates who started at the community college level. Panelists shared their own experiences, including their next steps after finishing their degree at Middlesex and their paths to their current careers in a variety of STEM fields.
鈥淓vents like the STEM transfer panel give students an opportunity to learn from other students who have been in the same spot they are in now,鈥� said Nick Cloutier, 麻豆果冻鈥檚 Coordinator of Transfer. 鈥淭hey can see that their questions and concerns are valid and that they may not be alone with those thoughts.鈥�
Panels are one effort Middlesex offers to assist students with the transfer process. In addition to meeting with academic advisors, the college provides resources, networking opportunities, and events such as annual transfer fairs. These tools help students understand what options are available to them for their next steps, including learning about deadlines and when and how to make a decision.
鈥淓arly planning is key to a successful and smooth transfer,鈥� said Jane Fain, 麻豆果冻鈥檚 Coordinator of Transfer Affairs. 鈥淪tudents who plan to transfer should transfer to pursue a higher degree if that better aligns with their career goals. That can also lead to a student鈥檚 personal growth, deeper knowledge of the subject, and new opportunities such as career advancement.鈥�
Panelists included Boucher, Cloutier, Fain, as well as WPI Interim Dean of Undergraduate Studies Arne Gericke, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Director of Transfer and Graduate Admission JoAnna Baker, 麻豆果冻 alum Christian North, and 麻豆果冻 STEM professor Scott Gordon.
鈥淥ur students at 麻豆果冻 are capable and ambitious,鈥� said Russell Olwell, Dean of Education and K-16 Partnerships. 鈥淲e want them to think broadly about their transfer options, whether in STEM or outside STEM fields. This panel introduced 麻豆果冻 students to folks who can help advise and mentor them on the transfer journey.鈥�