Nine Rappahannock Community College students recently toured Virginia Commonwealth University on its Transfer Information Day. In addition to gathering information about available instructional programs, they observed VCU campus life.
“We feel that it is important for students to be able to physically see college campuses that they are interested in, to truly see if it is the right fit for them,” said RCC Student Support Services (SSS) counselor Tanya Oliver.
The tour started with a presentation at the VCU Transfer Center, describing its programs for prospective students. This includes providing information and support to transfer students which will enable them, first, to establish a strong academic foundation for third and fourth year work, and then to make a smooth transition and progress steadily toward graduation. Available services include pre-admission, transition advising, evaluation of transfer credits and advocacy that assists in connecting new students to the campus community. The visiting students were encouraged to ask questions.
After a guided tour and lunch, the group attended a panel of four current VCU students who provided information about student activities, programs of study, ways to overcome homesickness and the transitions from their previous schools.
The tour was set up by Dr. Chimene Boone, director of the SSS program at VCU, who formerly served as a counselor with RCC’s SSS program.
The trip was organized by the SSS office at RCC. Those who participate “get a perspective of what it is to be a student on that campus,” said SSS counselor Joseph Coleman.
Hearing others speak about their experiences helps students to decide where to transfer after completing an RCC associate degree, said Coleman.
“VCU is my first choice,” declared student Isabella Cashin after hearing the presentations.
“The panel was great,” added Tiffany Wilson.
