Preparing for Transfer
by Olivia Ogonowsky
Cape Cod Community College (4C’s) offers many benefits, such as the Mass Transfer program, internship opportunities, and the NETA Transfer Fair, to help students navigate transferring and preparing for their futures at other universities.
“Starting your educational career at a community college and transferring to a 4-year school is a great idea for a lot of reasons.” said Arthur Esposito, director of advising and counseling at 4C’s. “Each successive degree you add to your resume (associates degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, etc.) increases your earning potential in the world of work. Also, earning credits at a community college usually saves you money—our fees can be as much as half of what you would pay at a 4-year institution.”
During the Virtual Transfer fair, which was held on October 21st, 2021, students were able to discover financial aid and scholarship options, meet with advisors at other schools, and talk to other students around Massachusetts. “There are many colleges that have specific course requirements both within their programs, and that would need to be completed for a student to be admitted.” Said Brendan Stamm, NETA president. Being aware of all the necessary information before it comes time to transfer benefits students immensely. It may also help reduce last minute stress weighing students down.
“Due to COVID,” said Stamm, “most community colleges have put a hold on holding large, in-person events, so the New England Transfer Association (NETA) board got together to brainstorm how we could support both students and our members.” The NETA membership is available to transfer professionals at community colleges, 4-year institutions, or anyone eligible for the transfer process. Stamm announced that over 300 students registered for the transfer fair.
The Mass Transfer program which offers endless advantages to students. The program allows students that receive an Associate’s Degree or Certificate at a Massachusetts community college to transfer to any Massachusetts Public College or University while saving money. The program also allows students guaranteed admission, guaranteed credit transfer, and free tuition if graduating with at least a 3.0 GPA. Although tuition may be waived, the fees are not. Unfortunately, fees are fairly pricey on their own.
“Programs like Mass Transfer,” Said Esposito, “allow you to save more money and increase the benefits of the time you spend here if you complete your associate’s degree prior to transferring.”
To learn more, visit the NETA transfer website: https://www.newenglandtransfer.org/home and https://www.uaspire.org/ for more information on how to apply for scholarships and financial aid support. Additionally, visiting the 4C’s Advising Center can help students find their destined path for career and/or education.
Photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash
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