Transfer Ambassadors
Although college is not an entirely new experience for transfer students, adjusting to a different environment may bring challenges and questions. At UW–Madison, nearly one-quarter of the undergraduate population comes from one or more other institutions. To smooth the transition to campus, the Transfer Transition Program acts as both an advocate and a resource.
Jessica Regan, advisor for the Transfer Transitions Program, believes that “a successful transition requires ‘unlearning’ some of what students thought they had known about college and relearning it in the context of UW–Madison.”
An exciting feature of the program is the team of Transfer Ambassadors (TAs), current undergraduate students who previously transferred to UW–Madison. As peer mentors, these students answer questions, offer social events and educational programming, and help facilitate involvement opportunities for transfer students.
“The Wisconsin Experience is all about our students connecting their learning to the world beyond the classroom,” says Regan. “The TAs are here to help new transfer students get off to a good start as they settle in and discover the range of opportunities on campus.”
TAs are well trained and enthusiastic Badgers who want to make each student’s transition successful. The program serves as a safety net for transfer students, as well as a resource and a community. Last semester, for example, TAs hosted a bowling night; private tours of the Capitol building and Camp Randall Stadium; a trip to a local apple orchard; study nights; and educational workshops about housing, financial aid, and the academic transition to UW–Madison.
Transfer Ambassadors routinely meet one-on-one with students who want to talk to someone about their transition experience, and the program provides a “low key and easy way to find some answers on campus,” says TA Alex Kuehn.
“We know firsthand what the transition can be like, and we’re here as peers to help students get the most out of their Wisconsin Experience,” adds TA Jay Stapp.