National Transfer Student Week is October 21-25, 2019. To celebrate, News@Wilkes met with Colonels across campus that have transferred to Wilkes.
Meet junior nursing student Mark Chester.
What’s your hometown?
Jersey City, N.J.
What was the transfer process like?
The transfer process through admissions was very welcoming and helpful, whether it would be a last-minute tour of campus or weekly phone calls with your admissions counselor. I frequently called with questions and they were quick to answer and provided me with resources throughout the campus.
Why did you decide to transfer here?
I decided to transfer to Wilkes because of the unique nursing program they have to offer. Clinicals start early in the program which offered me the opportunity and more time to practice and become confident with my clinicals skills. Also when I took my tour, the community I felt on campus was something I wanted to be a part of…. I saw a close community between students and professors. Another big part was the resources they offer to (help me) excel in my classes: the many styles of tutoring and additional supplemental instruction along with the support of the writing center.
What are you involved with on campus?
I am a Resident Assistant in one of the mansions we offer on campus for upperclassmen. I am a junior (2021) president of the Nursing Student Organization, where I have the opportunity to represent Wilkes Passan School of Nursing at conferences. I am a first-year E-mentor which helps first-year students transition into college and get involved in the university. Also, I am a Student Ambassador where I answer phone calls in the admissions office as well as give tours.
Biggest piece of advice for completing the transfer process?
Visit the campus. There is nothing like the community at Wilkes — and don’t be afraid to reach out. I was a little hesitant to reach out sometimes but the admissions office was always there and really provided me with the resources I need to make my decision.
Was it easy to adjust to the Wilkes campus community?
Transferring into the university and having a transfer mentor made it easy to reach resources to get involved or get help. Having a small student body with a big campus feel made it easy to create relationships with professors and make new friends, with also having enough space to be myself.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
There are many places, whether it be taking a run by the waterfront or grabbing a coffee at Starbucks before class. One of my favorite places is to study for a test in the Cohen (Science Center) study area that overlooks the Greenway.
