The Hidden Challenges of Transferring 

There are about eight million students across the country enrolled in community colleges. About a third of those students will transfer to a four-year university. 

Beginning the process of transferring can cause a lot of stress. From personal experience, the journey from community college to a four-year university comes with many challenges that can test any student’s mental strength. Not only do you have to decide where you are transferring to, but also you have to take into account how and what credits will transfer.

I had this idea that having an Associate’s degree meant I was halfway done with a bachelor’s degree, only to find out that some of my credits won’t transfer or are not congruent with my major. I have spent countless hours in advising offices, at both schools, figuring out how my credits will transfer. 

This realization was disheartening, especially after the hard work I put into my associate’s degree. The non-transferable credits meant potentially spending extra semesters to complete my bachelor’s degree, which is both a financial and emotional burden.

On top of this hurdle, the administrative aspects of transferring can also be daunting. Deadlines for applications, financial aid, and registration differ between institutions and require a lot of attention to detail. Missing a deadline can delay your transfer, disqualify you for scholarships and cause a lot of stress. 

I have found that organization is the only way to deal with the stress. Using a calendar with all the important dates and deadlines has been extremely helpful in this process. Despite the stress and setbacks, the journey from community college to a four-year university is a worthwhile challenge. With the right organization and mindset, the hurdles can be overcome, and the payoff will be worth the effort.

Emily Cotton is a Clearwater sophomore studying political science. Email her at thehutchinsoncollegian@gmail.com.

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