Major: Political Science
Minor: Spanish
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan
Where did you transfer from? Grand Rapids Community College

Why did you choose to transfer to the University of Michigan? I am a self-supporting non-traditional student. During my final year of high school, which was spent online due to COVID, I struggled to identify my future aspirations and felt unprepared financially and emotionally to commit to a large university. After two years at community college, I regained my confidence as a student and discovered my desired field of study. The highly ranked Political Science program at the University of Michigan offers numerous opportunities for campus involvement, and the Transfer Bridges program made the process of learning about and applying to the university much more accessible for me.

Based on your personal experience, what is the one thing you want to tell new transfer students? Your experience at the University of Michigan is what you make of it. The more involved you are on campus, the more enjoyable the experience will be for you. I found so much joy in my transfer experience once I started joining different clubs and attending other social events on campus.

How did you make friends and meet other students on campus? I consider myself lucky because I quickly became best friends with my roommates, which gave me an immediate support system. Beyond that, I actively sought out student organizations that aligned with my interests, which helped me meet people and get involved in campus life. Making friends in my classes was also important for building connections.

What is your favorite part about being an LSA transfer student? My favorite part about being an LSA transfer student is knowing that, even though my educational path is slightly different from that of my peers, I am fully supported and have access to resources that are designed to help me succeed. The strong sense of community within the transfer network reassures me that I’m not navigating this journey alone.

What do you know now that you wished you knew before transferring to the University of Michigan? Professors, GSIs, and other faculty are here to help you! Do not be afraid to connect with professors, advisors, or university provided services such as CAPS, TSC, or Sweetland Writing Center. Support is everywhere!

Why did you choose your specific major(s)? I developed a love for politics through my participation in policy debate during high school, which sparked my interest in foreign and domestic policy and the impact these policies have on society. While at GRCC, I discovered classes that aligned with my passions, leading me to explore these areas in greater depth which solidified my decision to pursue a political science major.