Transferring from 4C’s and where to start
by Giana Pollock
Are you thinking about transferring from Cape Cod Community College (4C’s) to get your bachelor’s degree? As busy students, especially during remote classes, it can be difficult to start the transferring process. Christine McCarey, Dean of Enrollment Management and Advising Services, and Colleen Coughlin, STEM Academic Coordinator, have provided the MainSheet with everything students need to know about the process of transferring.
Transferring to another school can be nerve racking, but McCarey said to not worry. “It can be an easy process,” said McCarey. “I recommend that students start talking to their advisor early. It’s never too early to talk about transferring, and in fact, it helps with your academic plan and allows you to ask questions, and research career and major options at other institutions.”
Coughlin agreed with McCarey, explaining how trouble-free the process can really be. “If you are looking to transfer within the State of Mass system, it can be a rather easy process,” said Coughlin. “The step by step app information can be found right on the Mass transfer website and you can explore degrees to transfer into from 4C’s directly. If you are unsure what you want to major in but know what state College or University, you want to go to this is a great tool to use to explore your degree options for a more “seamless” transfer.
Image: Colleen Coughlin, STEM Academic Coordinator
Talking to an advisor could be the most important part to the transfer process. Advisors are there to help, so talk to them first. “First, talk to your advisor. Second, begin to research schools that you are interested in and that have the major/career option that you’d like to pursue. If you are not sure how to do that, our advising center can help you. We have tools to help you explore career options,” said McCarey.
Setting up virtual meetings with an advisor is a great way to receive help with the process of transferring. “To make your meeting time with your advisor helpful, bring a list of questions and some career areas and majors that you are interested in,” said McCarey, noting that advisors can be reached at [email protected].
4C’s also has many different programs in place for the transfer process. “We have statewide articulation agreements with all 29 public institutions, including community colleges, state universities and the Umass system,” said McCarey. “You can maximize savings and time to degree completion with the MassTransfer program, Commonwealth Commitment program and other transfer options. You can look these up at mass.edu/masstransfer.”
Coughlin provides great information with how to figure out exactly what school is best for the student to be transferring to.
“Google it and Explore,” said Coughlin. “First step is to explore the websites of the College’s they are looking to transfer to as well as the specific programs they would like to enroll in. Contact the admissions department at that school for further information and clarification beyond what is on their website. Narrow it down and discuss options, courses as well as next steps with your assigned advisor. The students should ask themselves if they see themselves at that school or what do they want out of their 4-year education. What type of activities, campus life, academics or faculty research do they want to engage with? Explore faculty members academic pages and reach out to them to find out more. There may be opportunities for research funding or other scholarships for transfer students in specific departments.”
As for deadlines, that completely depends on the institution the student chooses. “Deadlines are important to take note of, so it is important to check admissions and financial aid deadlines to help you stay on track,” said McCarey.
Coughlin adds that the Mass transfer website does, however, provide general deadlines for students. “Mass transfer has a preferred deadline of: Fall Enrollment: March 1, and Spring Enrollment: October 15,” said Coughlin.
McCarey and Coughlin end off the interview with some great advice: take advantage, reach out, and start early. “Have a plan,” said Coughlin. “Start early! Don’t think because it is a private school you can’t afford it. You may be surprised at the financial aid packages private colleges and universities are offering. Reach out to your assigned advisor!”
“Take advantage of talking with you professors, advisors and other staff at 4Cs to ask questions about careers, majors, and options that pique your interest,” said McCarey. “We are here to help you keep your powerful future going, so reach out! And remember to start the conversation about transfer early so that you can have an academic plan in place that fits your needs and helps you stay on track.”
Talk to your advisor about transferring today!
https://www.mass.edu/masstransfer/home.asp
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