Major: Environment
Hometown: Stevensville, Michigan
Where did you transfer from?
Michigan State University
Why did you choose to transfer to the University of Michigan?
Truth be told, Michigan has always been my dream school. It’s academically challenging, has a diverse group of people and ideas, and values excellence. However, as amazing as that is, Michigan is also very intimidating. The professors and students are the best of the best. The facilities are amazing and the alumni achievements are recognized around the world. And when I was about to go to college the thought that haunted me was, “What if I’m not good enough?”. Fear is an infection that when untreated can control you. Instead of following my heart, my dreams, and ambitions, I decided to go to a safe school- Michigan State. It was a fine experience. I have many friends there who love and value that school. But, for me, I wasn’t challenged. I had to live with this constant ache and regret of not pushing myself to do better, to be better. I spent the year of 2020 proving to myself that, yes, I am good enough. I worked hard in my classes, I balanced life and school, I took care of my mental and physical health. It was a year of proving to me that I could handle college and anything it threw my way. And with this new found confidence in myself, and the support of my friends and family I applied, and cried, and was accepted into The University of Michigan.
Based on your personal experience, what is the one thing you want to tell new transfer students?
You are not less-than! You are just at the same university, taking the same classes, and doing the same things as people who were here their freshman year. If anything, you add to this campus and it’s diversity. Take pride in that fact, and that you made it. You did it.
How did you make friends and meet other students on campus?
I was unapologetically a loud mouth. I talked to everyone! I said hello and asked about their day. I asked people tough questions like ‘pancakes or waffles?’. I wore slippers to the transfer student center and asked people to name my left and right foot. I utilized my extroverted-theater kid super powers. But, if that’s not your style, a good place to start is classes and study groups. Doing homework AND making friends? Sounds like a win to me.
What is your favorite part about being an LSA transfer student?
As a transfer student, there are a lot of things that I had, and have, to go through and process that are different from the things that traditional students have to go through. Having the transfer community, an instant on-campus real-life connection with a big group of people made me feel not so alone.
What do you know now that you wished you knew before transferring to the University of Michigan?
One thing that I wish I knew before transferring to University of Michigan is the workload is intense, but manageable. I’ve come to realize that good grades are 98% time management. Learning how to manage your time to get quality work done is a valuable skill.
Why did you choose your specific major(s)?
Economics is such a diverse subject. I’m a math geek, but I wanted to apply math in a way that made a social impact. Environment is also something that I love. I love snakes and bugs and lizards. I’m the designated spider catcher at my house. I want to learn value and take care of my planet, and help build an economy that does too.
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