Transfer students reflect on their move to Auburn

Navigating through college is already a challenge, but for transfer students, the adjustment process can pose its own unique challenges.

The number of transfer students at Auburn University has increased in recent years, as there were 979 new transfers in 2019 and 1,221 as 2023. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center said the number of transfers going into a new institution increased 5.3 percent in 2023 compared to 2022.

Sophi Hardman, senior in communications, began her undergraduate at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, Alabama. While she was accepted into the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Hardman said a few aspects of Auburn stood out to her.

"Auburn was the first [campus] I toured, and I immediately fell in love with it," Hardman said. "I heard about the Auburn Circle, and I knew I wanted to go into an editorial job, and that is what really pulled me in. I knew the environment of Auburn was much more homey and comfortable than UAB." 

Her mother, a UAB alumna, influenced her decision, as she said that Auburn had a better campus and looked more comfortable for new students.

Entering her last semester in college, Hardman said that her decision to attend the university was the right one, as she found it was a great fit for her. Meeting some of her closest friends is just one factor that solidified her decision — realizing the opportunities she had was another.

"I got a job at the Auburn Rec, and it taught me so much and helped get me the internship I have. I do not think I would have had the same opportunities had I went to UAB, but I do not really worry about it because my life at Auburn is so good." Hardman said.

Coming to Auburn, Hardman did not know anyone and found it difficult to adjust without her parents or friends close by. She attended Wallace State during the pandemic where she took online classes and transferred to Auburn where she took classes in person, which made her transition more difficult.

"When you're a junior coming in, it's like 'I'm new here and I'm gonna be leaving soon,'" Hardman said. "It's kinda weird to adjust and find your place and feel like you're at home here, but eventually, you will."

Hardman's favorite memories since attending Auburn remain the ones she made while working at The Rec, where she was able to learn and heighten her experience. One moment that stands out to her was being able to share her knowledge on being a transfer student.

"I was asked to speak at the first Transfer Day Event, which meant a lot to me because I was able to share some of my experiences that I know would have helped me, had I learned about them coming in," Hardman said.

Speaking to other students considering transferring to Auburn, Hardman shared her best piece of advice.

"When you are a transfer going in, you are more than likely going into your core classes for your degree, so it can be easy to feel like everyone already knows each other but, do not let that stop you from trying to talk to people and make new friends," Hardman said.

Cahleb Gray, sophomore in electrical engineering, transferred from Jefferson State Community College to get an engineering degree. 

While Georgia Tech was an option on Gray's list, he said choosing Auburn was the right path for him.

"[Auburn has] the best engineering program and everyone is so supportive of others around campus. Also, It has a good environment around campus," Gray said.

While the first week was an adjustment period for him, Gray said once he adapted, he began studying more and participating in activities to meet new people. Meeting new people and networking with others in ROTC is the part about Auburn that has made his journey so memorable for him. 

Giving advice to others transferring to Auburn, Gray encourages students to stay focused and to not be tempted by distractions. 

"Stay on top of your work, slacking for even a day could put you back with a lot of work. So, keep your goal ahead and stay motivated so you won’t stress about later on down the road," Gray said.

Anna Grace Brown, senior in microbiology, previously attended the University of South Alabama and transferred due to a change in her major. 

While she was accepted into several opportunities, Brown's decision to attend Auburn was guided by her brother.

"My brother who had graduated the previous year, spoke highly of its academics, student life, and abundance of opportunities. My brother and I are very close and similar, and I knew he loved his time here," Brown said.

Reflecting on why Auburn was a more suitable choice for her than South Alabama, Brown shared what she appreciates about Auburn.

"This was definitely the right decision for me. I love the kind and family atmosphere here," Brown said. "Auburn’s mission to reach out and create community among its students, to provide its students with opportunities that will aid us beyond graduation, and to give us higher level learning encourages me to engage in my studies and student life."

While the academic side of Auburn proved to be more challenging than her previous institution, Brown shared the many ways the university accommodates its students.

"It was definitely an adjustment academically. Despite this, Auburn presented a lot of different ways to aid me in this area through welcoming professors, free tutoring services, teaching assistants, and SI sessions! I also love that many of the students here are quick to help outside of class and have guided me a lot in what classes I should take and how best to prepare for them," Brown said.

The way that Auburn operates was a noticeable difference compared to South Alabama, Brown said, as far as communication and involvement.

"Auburn does an excellent job sending out information and providing fun and accessible ways for its students to get involved socially, in serving the community, in achieving our academic goals and in supporting its athletics," Brown said.

Making friends through study groups has been the highlight of Brown's time here at Auburn, as they have helped her get through tough sections in class with laughter and relatable conversation. Brown wishes there was more availability for science courses because of the growing number of Auburn students, and she had to adjust to the scheduling side of her classes.

"Meeting other students in COSAM, was the most helpful way for me to learn how to arrange my classes each semester. I struggled my first year learning the different ways in which courses were available to me and when best to arrange them for my personal timeline. The more I got involved and met other students the more I learned about my courses and scheduling," Brown said.

Finally figuring out a routine that best fits her, Brown offered encouragement to fellow transfer students at Auburn.

"Introducing yourself to your professors and others students opens so many doors to the many opportunities Auburn University provides," Brown said. "I learned so much through other students and staff about not only academics but different organizations and jobs as well."