Transfer Center Ambassadors are dedicated student staff who are excited to support other students as they transition into and through the University of Washington! These students are current UW students who are excited to share their experience and support other transfer students by providing connections to resources and community building opportinties. Transfer Center Ambassadors will provide:
Winter Quarter: Wednesdays and Thursdays
12:30 p.m - 3:30 p.m.
UW Transfer Center (MGH 141)
I grew up and began my higher education on the east coast. Years later, I moved to Seattle and began taking courses at Bellevue College within their Physics department. At UW, I decided to obtain a double degree in Physics and Comparative History of Ideas. I've participated in research projects and programs through BC and UW involving experimental design in optical physics, marine sciences at Friday Harbor Labs, and Jewish diaspora studies in Ecuador. Returning to higher education, I've become practiced in advocating for myself and others-- especially fellow transfer students who are disabled, low-income or otherwise marginalized.
Your time at UW will be unique, but may move quickly. There are at least a million ways up a mountain- rush the shortest path and opportunities could be avalanched, or you could lose your breath. Take time to build relations and strengthen them as you reach your goals. In doing so, consider a "big picture" perspective beyond your major, class or career.
If you're up early (or late), watching the sunrise by the ASUW Shell House is a real treat.
My transfer journey has been wonderfully non-traditional. I started at Washington State University studying Chemical Engineering but was initially academically unprepared. Through an academic advisor, I learned about the TRIO program, which I joined after leaving WSU for Bellevue College. There, I attended workshops that improved my time management and helped me create a better course plan with my advisor. This structure helped me stay on top of my work while balancing a part-time job. Through TRIO I was lucky to learn about Path to UW and attend its Introduction Seminar. This opened my eyes to the world of nanomaterials and the field of Materials Science, influencing me to change course once again! I’m happy to now be at a school where I’m learning more than ever and enjoying being a part of a lively academic community!
I would reach out to peers to build a community in your classes and major, as discussing concepts with others can clear up confusion and reinforce learning. There also are many fun clubs that can help you feel more at home on campus. Don’t hesitate to utilize your resources, whether it is Undergrad Advising or Research, Career and Internship center or something else!
The IEB
My journey started at Green River College, where I joined the High School Completion Program - similar to Running Start, but for international students. After completing my AS degree, I transferred to the UW, majoring in CFRM: DS. When I first got here, I was honestly overwhelmed. The classes were huge, the grading felt completely different, and the campus itself was massive. I remember feeling a little lost in that sea of students. But over time, I started to find my place. I went to more events, got involved with the community, and met so many amazing people from all over the world. Slowly, the big, intimidating campus started to feel more like my second home.
Say yes to opportunities! UW can feel big at first, but every event, fair, or conversation is a chance to find your community. Hence, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, go to events, join activities, and connect with other peers. As a UW student, you have a lot of opportunities, and you never know what or who might inspire you.
Hi! I’m Anthony, a Public Health Global Health major who transferred from South Seattle College. I chose UW because of its strong focus on equity, community, and the wide range of opportunities to grow both academically and personally. For anyone thinking about transferring to UW, I encourage you to explore the many resources available there’s a supportive community here that truly wants to see you thrive.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help or put yourself out there, UW has so many resources and communities waiting to support you! I really appreciate how many communities and support systems are available for students from all kinds of backgrounds. I’ve felt genuinely welcomed and supported through programs, mentors, and peers who want to see each other succeed. It’s a big campus, but there’s always a space to feel seen, heard, and connected.
One of my favorite places to hang out is the Hans Rosling Center for Population Health, it has quiet study spaces, beautiful views of campus.
My path to UW was unconventional. I wasn’t able to attend college right after high school and didn’t return to school until after my daughter was born. I began taking classes part-time at community college while balancing work and parenting. It took a lot of dedication to get here, but it’s been worth it. Since starting at UW, I’ve met lots of amazing people who have helped me get into incredible opportunities including spending a quarter at the Friday Harbor marine labs and gaining hands-on research experience.
Put yourself out there! Don’t be afraid to pursue opportunities just because you feel underqualified. Most people on campus are supportive and want to help you grow and gain experience while you’re here.
The greenhouse in the Life Sciences Building
After being discharged from the Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, I spent some time figuring out my next step, I decided to not return to medicine and try my hand at helping the environmental cause. UW provides some of the best opportunities in the environmental space and my family and I moved to Seattle for that reason. We have since fallen in love with the area and look forward to what the future holds for us.
No one cares about your success more than you. Your teachers, advisors, TAs, friends, and family all want you to succeed, but you must want it the most. You can show that by going to all of the office hours, participating in class, and being quick to take on a research opportunity should it arise. These will help you become successful in your ability to learn the material and allow you to not focus solely on the letter grade.
Across from Anderson Hall there is a grove opposite the Sylvan Grove...best nap spot is on a bench in the light rain (the cedar tree above keeps you pretty dry)
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