A Message for Transfer Students: You Belong
When I received word that I was accepted into the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, I think my head swelled three times its size. However, once I started classes there I soon realized that what I had expected as a transfer student was not at all what I was faced with. I was in over my head. Reality slapped me right in the face. What little social life I had went straight down the drain. The complexity of the work felt overwhelming. I could not seem to “get ahead” the way I previously did at community college. I began to have self-doubt in my capabilities.
Earning a place
Luckily, I already had a support network in place. I was contacted by the Provost’s office and asked to come in to talk. He shared that the application process was stringent and noted that I had earned a place among the others on campus. He assured me I had all the tools I needed to become successful and stated I was a true Wolverine. This helped to set my mind at ease and I gained the confidence I needed to complete my school work.
Becoming a part of the community
Being a nontraditional student has its ups and downs. Fitting in to the campus community is part of it. Most people who live in Michigan have gone to a Wolverine football game at the Big House in the heart of Ann Arbor. I have not. It was just something I had never gotten around to do. I thought I wouldn’t fit in due to my age. When I became a student at the University, I continued to make excuses not to go. My school pride started off rather slowly, however each day I have spent as a Michigan Wolverine has brought me a feeling of hope and accomplishment. I am beginning to know what it feels like to be a part of something so grand. I have managed to accomplish a great feat, and I hope I can continue to follow this path I am heading down. This year, I plan to be among the Wolverines’ at the “Big House” cheering on our team. No more holding back. When I hear the Wolverine fight song, my eyes fill with tears of pride. I belong.
Victoria plans to attend a Wolverine football game with her granddaughter.
Persevere to accomplish great things
My word to all the students out here, especially transfer students: YOU belong! You deserve the recognition, the pride, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with being a college student. You deserve to feel like you’re a part of the campus community. Classes might be hard, and homework might be tedious. But through perseverance you will accomplish great things – and that is something you ought to be proud of.
About the author
Victoria Bankowski
Victoria is the first in her family to go to college and has earned Associate of Science and Associate of Arts degrees at Wayne County Community College. In addition to serving as an officer with Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, she graduated at the top of her class in 2015 and was the Special Recognition Award Recipient. Victoria currently attends the University of Michigan where she is pursuing a career in Environmental Sustainability. She is an officer of Tri Beta Biological Honor Society. She continues to build her leadership skills by working closely with the Detroit/Windsor chapter of Executive Women International (EWI). Outside of the classroom, she enjoys quality time with her granddaughters.
Victoria is a Pearson Student Insider. To learn more about the program and apply, click here.
