Transfer Student Advisory Board (TSAB)

Although a domestic student, I’ve never considered myself so. I’ve always been in the middle of the spectrum of being international or domestic due to moving back and forth between India and the US during my childhood. It has definitely made it harder to adapt to one environment but also given me insight on both sides of the spectrum and greatly affected my thought process to be able to view things differently. I transferred to Foster from Green River Community College. I was confident of not experiencing as much of a change because of having been through a lot of transitions already. But I felt overwhelmed, the idea of perfect grades was driving me crazy.

Even after studying for an entire day, it was getting harder to achieve my academic goals. What I didn’t realize was that what I needed was a step back to breathe and take time for myself. Once I started setting this goal in my weekly goals list, I wasn’t far away from being named in the dean’s list for three consecutive quarters. I believe there is no single approach that works for everyone. Either a domestic or international student, I want to relate to you and help you out through your journey at Foster. Always remember not to confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.

I transferred to Foster from South Seattle College (Go Otters!). Prior to starting my first quarter in the Fall of 2019 I spent time researching available resources, registering on Handshake and searching for upcoming events. Albeit preparation was taken, nothing could have prepared me more for my first quarter better than just starting classes and getting into the flow. My first quarter at Foster I had a hard time adjusting to the workload and speed of classes, especially four classes and working a part-time job. I am also a very social person and finding community is important to me. I learned the importance of getting involved from an early age.

I identify as a non-traditional First Generation student, former Student Body President, a TRiO student and peer mentor, tutor, and unfaltering advocate to my LGBT community and all diverse communities. After the Foster RSO fair in the fall, I found it easier to connect with others, and learn ways of continuing to get involved. It takes time to find your clutch crew, trust me they are there! Be curious, ask questions, and PLEASE create a schedule that is manageable for yourself – trust me, you’ll need it!

I have learned a great deal as a transfer student at Foster, and I want to support you on your undergrad journey! Your courses here at Foster may or may not be the easiest – but know that you are not alone. We transfer students bring a depth of experience and life skills that lend to the melting pot making Foster’s students who they are. I know it’s not always easy, but know that you are not alone. Please reach out if you are looking to meet fellow transfer students or have questions about the transfer experience – I am here to support you!

Hello! I’m a current commuter transfer student from Cascadia Community College that participated in the running start program. The most difficult challenges I encountered throughout my first two quarters were dealing with imposter syndrome and finding a trusted community. By joining various RSOs and befriending other transfer students I was able to discover a sense of security. When times are difficult I like to remind myself that “you belong here and were admitted for a reason.” My advice to incoming students is: take risks, learn from failures, celebrate successes, and surround yourself with people who will encourage you. The transfer experience can be difficult but I’m here to provide support in any way possible.

Hello!! My name is Lesly G Duran, & I’m a transfer student from Grays Harbor College! As an incoming student at UW Foster, I was very intimidated in going through another higher education system by myself. Due to my parents living in another country. However, this led me to becoming self-motivated in everything I do. Now, I can proudly state that I have been very involved in RSO’s within both schools such as; ASUW. TRiO, BEA, FGBL, ALPFA & many more to come for the upcoming school year!

Before my first quarter in Foster I didn’t know how I would be able to keep myself accountable for balancing everything out! However, I recommend staying involved in making connections, creating friendships, and meeting with your advisors, faculty, and staff! Foster has so much to offer, and if I could go back, I would have taken action sooner in reaching out to clubs that sparked my interest.

Overall, you decide who you surround yourself with, so take control now and pick wisely! Creating your future in becoming that successful business person! I’m here for anything you may need on your way to thriving! Please contact me anytime! I look forward to meeting you!!

I transferred to Foster from Pierce Community College in the Fall of 2019. As a newly admitted transfer student, there is a lot to get up to speed with. With the increased rigor, intense fall recruitment season, and searching for a new community – it can be a bit overwhelming. Just know that myself, TSAB, and the broader Foster community are here to support you at every step of the way. As you navigate the exciting opportunities and challenges at Foster, I implore you to engage and seek out every opportunity available to you. What you put into your experience as a Foster student is what you will get out of it. While challenging at times, it will provide you with the tools and opportunities to shape your future. If you have any questions or concerns, hit me up on LinkedIn or via email – I’d love to chat. We’re excited to have you here at Foster with us!

I am a proud Foster transfer student from Bellevue College. My first quarter at Foster was everything but smooth sailing. Going into Foster as a transfer student, I was expected to have the knowledge and know-all of a UW junior. The first few weeks at Foster was a struggle for me – having to keep up with the many events and fairs on top of fast-paced classes. Being an international student made it twice as difficult to adapt to the overwhelming changes. My experiences have led me to become enthusiastic about wanting to help incoming Foster transfer students pave their undergrad journey. I am here to support you as a mentor and ambassador, but most importantly, I am here to support your journey at Foster as a friend that you can count on! Please reach out if you are looking to meet fellow transfer students or have questions about the transfer experience!

I am a junior at Foster majoring in Finance. I transferred from North Seattle College in Fall 2019. I moved out on my own very young and couldn’t go to college at the traditional age. Now I am in my 30s, making me a nontraditional student (at least as far as Foster goes). I believe my path has given me a very unique perspective on college life and how to navigate it, and I am passionate about sharing my experiences with other transfer students. Transferring into Foster from a community college is like to being thrown into the middle of the ocean and told to swim after you just learned to doggy paddle; there are challenges and pitfalls you’ll expect (I assumed it would be harder) and some you may not see coming (hello, cutthroat curve). My goal is to be a resource and a friend to any transfer student, whether that means sharing advice, providing resources, or just listening when you need to vent.

I moved to the United States from China in 2015. I transferred to the Foster School of Business in Fall 2019 from Seattle Central College. As a non-traditional student, I seize every opportunity for growth and I am fully committed to making my academic journey a fulfilling and meaningful one. I have been involved in two case competitions through the American Marketing Association and the International Studies in Business program. I am completing a certificate in the Husky Leadership Program this May. In my first quarter at Foster, there were times when I felt overwhelmed, but embracing a growth mindset and learning to prioritize, helped me to stay motivated and connected with the campus community.