Major: Psychology and Organizational Studies

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Where did you transfer from? DePaul University 

Why did you choose to transfer to the University of Michigan? I chose to transfer to the University of Michigan because of the opportunities and welcoming environment I experienced throughout the application process. From the beginning, I felt that Michigan was a place where students were encouraged to grow, both personally and academically. Hearing about the experiences of other students and how much they enjoyed being part of the Michigan community made me even more excited about the possibility of attending.

Coming from Chicago, I was also looking for a change of scenery and wanted to experience a different kind of college environment. Ann Arbor gave me that opportunity while still providing the energy, diversity, and opportunities of a large university. Ultimately, I chose Michigan because I felt that it was a community where I could challenge myself, grow, and take advantage of opportunities that would shape my college experience.

Based on your personal experience, what is the one thing you want to tell new transfer students? The one thing I would tell new transfer students is to not compare your experience at Michigan to anyone else’s. Everyone is on their own timeline, and there is no one “right” way to experience U-M. You may come in thinking you have everything figured out, only to discover a new interest, opportunity, or community that changes your direction and that is completely okay. College is a time to explore, and Michigan has so many opportunities to help you do that.

My biggest piece of advice is to put yourself out there and take advantage of as many opportunities as you can. Try something new, meet people outside of your usual circles, and don’t be afraid to change your path if you find something that excites you. You don’t have to have everything figured out when you get here. Give yourself the freedom to explore, try new things, and see where they take you.

How did you make friends and meet other students on campus? I met a lot of people through transfer events, especially Transfer Connections, which gave me the opportunity to meet other transfer students while also learning about the resources Michigan has to offer. I also met people through student organizations, classes, and simply putting myself out there and talking to people around campus.

One thing I learned is that making friends in college takes some intentionality. Everyone has different schedules with classes, work, and other commitments, so it’s important to follow up with the people you meet and actually make plans to see each other. Whether it’s someone you meet in a class, at a student organization, or just around campus, taking the initiative to stay in touch can turn a quick interaction into a meaningful friendship.

What is your favorite part about being an LSA transfer student? My favorite part about being an LSA transfer student is the sense of community. Before coming to Michigan, I was nervous about finding other transfer students, but I quickly realized how many transfers there are and how many opportunities there are to connect with them. I also appreciate the resources available to help make the transition easier, along with the many opportunities to get involved and gain leadership experience.

What do you know now that you wish you’d known before transferring to the University of Michigan? I wish I had known just how many resources are available to students at Michigan. I knew there were a lot, but I didn’t realize how many opportunities there are to explore different interests and goals, from study abroad to internships and beyond. No matter what you’re interested in pursuing, there are resources and people here to help you make it happen.

Why did you choose your specific major(s)? I chose Psychology because I’ve always been interested in how people think and how human behavior can influence the way organizations function. I’m fascinated by the connection between individuals and the environments they’re a part of.

I discovered Organizational Studies during my first semester at Michigan and immediately connected with the major. I loved how flexible the curriculum is and how it allows you to explore your interests while developing skills that align with your goals. As a transfer student, I was also looking for a sense of community, and OS gave me that. It’s a close-knit community where students, faculty, and alumni are genuinely invested in one another. What I love most is that OS gives you the freedom to build your own path. Whether it’s studying abroad, pursuing internships, or taking classes across different areas, you can really shape the major around what you want to explore. As someone who is still figuring out my next steps, I find that flexibility really empowering.