3 Questions with a Transfer Student
Transferring to Chatham from a different college is a crucial decision for many students, and whether the choice is based on academics, finances, or location, Chatham excels at making the process as seamless and direct as possible. Ava Meyers, an International Studies major, transferred to Chatham after completing her associate degree at the Community College of Allegheny County. In our latest 3 Questions piece, Ava outlines some of the factors that played a role in her decision to transfer to Chatham, what transfer students can expect, and her favorite aspects of Chatham life. Check it out—
Transfer student, Ava Meyers
How did you decide to transfer to Chatham and what did that process look like for you?
Ava Meyers: There were several schools that were on my radar, but Chatham stood out right from the application process. [Chatham was] responsive, helpful, and welcoming from the very first email I sent to the admissions office, and I have seen that same environment reflected in the school as a whole. When it came to financial aid, Chatham helped me throughout the application process and offered me scholarships as well. In addition to my need-based aid, I received several merit-based scholarships, including a scholarship for being a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) member. I don’t know how the Office of Financial Aid was able to do it, but the fact that they made my education so affordable is just another example of the personalized effort that you receive when choosing Chatham.
What have been the highlights of your Chatham experience thus far?
AM: When looking at schools to transfer to for an International Studies major, Chatham was one of the few universities that seemed to give this major due attention. As its own, stand-alone major housed within the School of Arts, Science, and Business, I never feel like my program is being pushed aside or forgotten about. We have plenty of resources, some of which are put in place to help address the specific needs that come from my program, such as study abroad opportunities and connections with other institutions. Chatham takes pride in its global focus, which provides even more chances for me to explore opportunities related to my major. It is such a privilege to feel like my school pays attention to all programs equally, and to know that I don’t have to compete with other departments for resources.
From my first day as a student, I was matched with an advisor from my department who I can reach out to with any questions or concerns. In addition to that, every student completes a self-designed research project to earn their degree, something that I never thought I would get the chance to do in undergrad. Your advisor serves as a resource in designing and completing this project, giving you both freedom and support. All of my professors know me by name and are more than willing to help students in any way they can. Chatham offers smaller class sizes that foster personal connections between students and faculty. I feel as though my professors and advisors really care about my success and are willing to bend over backwards to give me opportunities that fit my needs exactly. Being here makes me feel like I have a whole team behind me who are eager to get me to where I want to be.
“At Chatham, I really feel like I am at home and I have found the best place for me. I have learned more in my first semester than I ever could have imagined, and more importantly, I have found a place where I belong. ”
Students participate in a masked-up petting zoo.
Our Shadyside campus is beautiful, with tons of green, woodsy areas that are perfect for studying, hanging out with friends, relaxing in nature, and participating in school events. We have activities going on every single week, ranging from concerts to petting zoos to voter registration to magic shows. Getting involved is encouraged, and my orientation leaders did a great job of getting me acquainted with the area and my peers. There are numerous student lounges on our walkable campus. Access to the surrounding neighborhood campuses is made easy through public transportation, but there are plenty of local hot spots well within walking distance of campus. Shadyside is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, and I love the fact that I am just up the street from restaurants and stores while still being tucked away in our own little community.
How would you recommend other potential transfer students get involved on campus?
There are numerous clubs and organizations available for students to join. If your hobby doesn’t have a club already, you can start one. Chatham is very supportive of students exploring all areas of interests. Even if you are not a student athlete, you can still become very involved and well-connected on campus. This is an environment where I feel comfortable sharing my own passions and exploring new interests I may not have otherwise discovered.
This content was initially written by Ava Meyers as a Phi Theta Kappa Endorsement Essay. Thank you to Ava and the Office of Admissions for sharing with us. If you are interested in transferring to Chatham, click here.
