Unlocking success: from community college to university

Kristy Kazzi

Staff Writer

Transferring from a community college to a university can serve as a strategic pathway toward obtaining a bachelor’s degree. This route offers financial savings, and proves to be an intelligent choice, fostering valuable connections along the academic journey. 

Kelley Holcomb, the transfer & articulation coordinator at WCC, emphasizes the importance of one-on-one consultations with academic advisers at WCC and the desired university. 

Holcomb suggests exploring scholarships specifically tailored for associate degrees, a valuable resource many students may be unaware of. 

“We are creating and allowing more transfer pathways from a lot more of our associate degree and certificate program,” said Holcomb. 

She also said that there are more opportunities for associate degree programs where there is interest.

Supporting this perspective, the American Association of Community Colleges, in an article, underscores the collaborative efforts between community colleges and universities.

“Community colleges and universities are expanding and strengthening partnerships to meet the needs of both students and employers,” said the American Association of Community Colleges.

Some WCC students have their eyes set on the University of Michigan. For those considering the School of Literature, Science, and Arts, Justin Villanueva, the Transfer Recruiting Coordinator for the College of LSA at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, recommends participation in the Transfer Bridges program.

Villanueva sheds light on the significance of this program in aiding students through the transfer process and application procedures.

 According to Villanueva, the admittance rate for first-year students in LSA was 17.9%, whereas it significantly increased to 44.1% for transfers. 

Emphasizing equality in the evaluation process, Villanueva notes that the office of undergraduate admissions evaluates every application, from first to last, ensuring a comprehensive review.

Villanueva further directs students to the wealth of information available on the LSA website. 

“Everything that a WCC student needs to know about the transfer process is on this [LSA] website,” said Villanueva. 

He reassures students that there are individuals like him, eager to assist and navigate the complexities of the entire transfer process. 

Villanueva said, “You are at the best place you can be at right now, at Washtenaw Community College.” 

For those seeking guidance from Justin Villanueva, he extends an invitation to contact him at javil@umich.edu for any inquiries.

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