Students get a chance to explore potential transfer institutions
Garrett College students had the opportunity to talk with representatives of 14 colleges and universities from three states on Monday during Transfer Day 2026.
Frostburg State University, West Virginia University, and the University of Maryland Global Campus were just some of the institutions represented at Transfer Day.
“This is a pretty good event,” said Garrett College sophomore Lucas Alonso Garcia, who is hoping to play soccer and study mechanical engineering at his next institution. “You have a lot of options to explore in one place.”
Freshman Brady Spotts agreed.
“I’m glad there are a lot of options here,” said Spotts, who said the event was helping in thinking about “what I want to do, where I want to go, and what’s the best fit.”
Sean Aurigemma, Frostburg State University’s assistant director of admissions, said he emphasizes the value of FSU’s Associate Degree Scholarship. That scholarship is only available to Maryland community college students who complete an associate’s degree.
“It entices students to finish their degree rather than transfer early,” observed Aurigemma.
Aaron Boner, associate director of admissions for University of Maryland Global Campus, highlighted a similar plan at UMGC called the Completion Scholarship for students seeking to complete a bachelor’s degree online.
“If a student has an associate’s degree, they will pay no more than $199 per credit for up to 60 credits at UMGC,” said Boner, who also noted UMGC accepts up to 70 credits in transfer. “It’s a very generous transfer credit program.”
Parker Mihelic, associate director of transfer recruitment at Harrisburg (PA) University of Science and Technology, was also emphasizing value.
“We’re letting students know we are here as a low-cost option,” said Mihelic. “Our average tuition for last academic year was $3,407, and our Financial Aid Office works hard to try to make college as affordable as possible.”
Jake Zadjura, regional recruiter for West Virginia University, said WVU has made increasing its transfer student population a priority. WVU offers in-state tuition to Garrett County residents who complete an associate’s degree at Garrett College.
“We’re committed to growing our number of transfer students – and you can only do that if you’re transfer-friendly,” said Zadjura, adding WVU works closely with the region’s community colleges on articulation transfer agreements.
Dr. Ashley Ruby, Garrett College’s director of the learning commons and academic success, said Transfer Day is focused on assisting students in reviewing their transfer options.
“It’s a good opportunity for our students to talk face-to-face with representatives from four-year institutions about scholarships and transfer options,” said Ruby. “These interactions also help boost students’ confidence about being able to make informed transfer decisions.”
