Willamette is celebrating National Student Transfer Week, which runs Oct. 17-21, by highlighting a few students and sharing their reasons for transferring here.
We spoke to Amaya Latuszek ’23, an English major; Fernando Bitelli ’24, an exercise and health science major; and Limei Lai '22, a painting major at Pacific Northwest College of Art.
Why did you choose Willamette and where did you transfer from?
Latuszek: I transferred from Grossmont Community College in San Diego, California. I chose Willamette because I needed a tight-knit community feel. I wanted to build connections with my professors, peers and other faculty, and I felt that I wouldn't find those opportunities at the other schools I applied to. I felt supported here and I have continued to feel that support ever since.
Bitelli: I chose Willamette because I loved the campus, the exercise and health science program was exactly what I was looking for, and the soccer team was a perfect fit for me. I transferred from Lane Community College in Eugene.
Lai: A friend who studied at PNCA encouraged me to apply and the school gave me a decent scholarship. I transferred from Portland Community College. This is my last semester. I should graduate in December.
What has the transfer process been like for you? What’s been helpful as you made the transition?
Latuszek: Transferring can be a nerve-wracking process. You're changing up your life's course a little bit, but that doesn't mean it's a bad thing. Going the nontraditional route has been the best decision I've ever made. Finding connections with other nontraditional students has helped me find my confidence and we support each other.
Bitelli: The transfer process has been smooth. Both the soccer team and the Exercise and Health Science department have been extremely supportive and welcoming. They have truly helped me throughout this process.
Lai: The transfer process was rather easy in terms of paperwork. PNCA instructors are very supportive.
Have you had any surprising or memorable experiences, or is there anything you’d like to share?
Latuszek: My favorite thing about being a transfer student at Willamette is being able to prove that going on a nontraditional route can hold the same opportunities for growth and success. It's about finding the right support system, and I definitely found that at Willamette.
Bitelli: What surprised me the most about WU is the amount of resources available to help me succeed. There is a resource for everything I could possibly need. One of the many memorable experiences I've had so far was getting to work with cadavers in the Human Anatomy Laboratory.
Lai: There are many things about PNCA that surprised me. School is different each year, especially after the merger.
I love school, enjoy studying, I am enthusiastic about the work and I appreciate the supportive instructors. PNCA also has equipment you can’t find at a non-art school and a community that will last your lifetime.