The transferring process is a turning point for students that brings challenges, adjustments and overall feelings that they have to deal with in order to take their education to a further level.

Moorpark College student, Mallory Gilmore, is one of the many students on their way to transferring to California State University Northridge. Gilmore said that starting a new life and adapting to it is going to be the biggest issue for her.

“For me, it is the fact that I have a job at Moorpark College so once I transfer, I won’t have a job anymore,” said Gilmore. “Also, I have been here for two years so I got really comfortable because I know the campus and people.”

One of the first steps recommended for students is to visit a counselor from both schools before the process starts. Their advice will help students know what to do before transferring and their new school’s system, especially scheduling classes since it will be severely impacted by budget cuts. Also, it is recommended to do some research about on-campus housing in order to save money and time.

Judi Gould, career center counselor at MC, considers the most exciting moment for a transfer student is when they find out they’re admitted.

“The most stressful part is waiting for the college decisions and then dealing with whatever the decision is,” said Gould. “Once students get in it’s like a new beginning and a new journey.”

Bernadette Medina, a psychology major at Ventura College, said that even though it is useful to talk to counselors, she recommends keeping an eye on everything related to the units needed in order to transfer.

“I was supposed to transfer in Spring 2011, but the counselor of VC actually messed up and missed 0.5 units,” said Medina. “I was unable to graduate and it sent me back, which was really, really frustrating.”

Lori McDonald, the coordinator of student recruitment programming and admissions for California State University Channel Islands, recommends students to be organized and be aware of the application’s deadline.

“Don’t wait until the last minute,” said Mc Donald. “Be prepared and plan ahead are three basic steps I suggest students to be successful and don’t fall behind during the transferring process.”

A change does not necessarily mean that something is over. It’s just about being prepared and ready to accept new challenges and keep moving forward.