SU Celebrates Transfer Students

By Alex Malanoski

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – The Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs hosted a night of painting succulent pots and eating delicious snacks to celebrate the accomplishments of spring transfer students.

This event held at the Women’s Building field as a part of Transfer Appreciation Week allowed students to explore their creative side while connecting with others. Audrey Hixon, a Newhouse master’s student, said she is grateful for the opportunity to speak with students from a similar background.

“Just to get to meet new people as a transfer student is a little difficult coming in if you’re not here as a freshman to really make friends with people your age,” Hixon said. “The transfer program is a really great way to interact with other students that are kind of in the same boat as you.”

The transition to a new college comes with plenty of challenges both academically and socially. However, Maggie D’Amaro, a Transfer Transition Leader and transfer student herself, said she is happy with how these struggles have shaped her as a person.

“There’s definitely a bit more pressure because you’re dealing with less credits before you graduate. It’s a little bit harder to transfer in and out of colleges and different programs,” D’Amaro said. “Sometimes you’re held back an entire year because of it, but it’s a great talking point and a great place to invite change and growth into your life.”

Finding a welcoming community is often essential to enjoying the college experience. Garrett Hinge, a sophomore who transferred to SU during a strange fall semester, said he encourages transfer students to step out of their comfort zone and try new things.

“Just get involved. Find activities that you love or activities that you’ve always wanted to try, whether it’s clubs, organizations, sports, arts, Greek life, throw yourself into it,” Hinge said. “That’s the only way you’re going to meet people.”