Change can be tough. Transferring to a large university like UNC-Chapel Hill is a big change for many students and can include challenges that are not typical of the traditional college student. But these challenges also provide an opportunity for growth.
The Other First Years: Stories of Transfer Students at UNC-Chapel Hill is a short documentary about five UNC students who took a less traditional path to become Tar Heels.
- LaChaun Anderson graduated from high school with a 1.8 GPA thinking college wasn’t an option for her. But she eventually gained admission to Carolina through the C-STEP program and went on to become a Phillips Ambassador.
- When Johnny Voter arrived at UNC, it was his first time being away from his hometown of Fayetteville.
- Jacob Riske spent five years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps before transferring to Carolina in 2010.
- Angelique Ryan started her college career right after high school but eventually dropped out. Now, almost 10 years later, she has transferred to Carolina to finish her education, working hard as a full-time student and a full-time mom.
- Awa Jagne has lived in Africa almost her entire life. Three years ago, she came to the United States to continue her education and has now transferred to UNC to major in global studies.
In this video, UNC transfer students share their frustrations and anxieties, as well as their passion and excitement about completing their degree at Carolina.
[ by Mary Lide Parker ’10]
