Mikela Jennings

What advice would you give to new transfer students coming to CSUSB?

Don't hesitate to do what you feel is right for you. If that means taking longer than two years to finish your degree so that you can expand in other areas of your life, do that. If that means taking a break altogether, do that. Protect your peace. Take the steps you want to take. No one else is working to get your degree but you. Keep your mind and spirit strong because you will be tested. The greatest tests will come from outside the classroom, believe me. Be kind to yourself. I wish you all of you all in the world as you all embark on this new journey.

Why are you proud to be a transfer student? Provide highlights of your college career so far.

My journey towards higher education has been a difficult, complex one. I will be the first person in my immediate family to graduate with a college degree. Despite not having an prior information about college, I have earned my Associate's degree while working two jobs to support myself. During that journey, I won a scholarship for my endeavors and have met incredible that have aided in my successes.

What was the most challenging part of being a transfer student? How did you overcome it?

Before graduating from my community college, I had anxiety over completing my Bachelor's degree. My anxiety was also fueled by the fact that I would be leaving the institution that I had grown so much in and come to love behind to grow even further in a place that permits it. It was rough during the beginning of my first quarter because I had no friends from my previous college transfer in with me. The way I overcame this was putting all my negative feelings into my school work. I have worked tirelessly in my classes in order to be the student that I feel is deserving of being in my position as a student at CSUSB.

What were your reasons for transferring? Have you achieved your objectives?

I transferred so that I could receive my B.A. degree in psychology and pursue my graduate studies here as well. I am happy to say that I will be graduating with that degree in December after many years of hard work!

How has CSUSB helped you attain your academic and personal goals as a transfer student?

This campus, faculty, and students has a welcoming energy about it that has made my everyday struggles as a student much more easier. Coming from a campus with a bigger population of students, the laid back nature of CSUSB has made it easier for me to relax and enjoy the college experience entirely. One personal goal I have obtained since transferring is having the opportunity to work on campus as a Student Assistant at the College of Extended and Global Education. The experience helped me gain experience in working in an educational environment.

What is the best part of being a transfer student? What makes transfer students special?

The best part about being a transfer student is having an understanding of what you want and who you plan on becoming. There are a lot of student who are in limbo mode regarding their future career. Transfer students have the ability to mentor other students on finding their way to their purpose.