When Annabelle transferred to The University of Akron in fall 2026, she was looking for a fresh start. The Navarre, Ohio, native chose Akron to study marketing and quickly discovered how getting involved in the College of Business could open doors to career opportunities, professional connections and a welcoming community.

After playing two years of collegiate volleyball, Annabelle made the difficult decision to medically retire following multiple concussions. Ready for a new chapter, she applied to Akron after hearing positive things about the university and its College of Business from graduates.

Since arriving on campus, Annabelle has embraced opportunities to explore her interests beyond the classroom. She visited corporate partner Palmer Holland through the Fisher Institute for Professional Selling and attended the Fisher Sales Career Fair, where companies pitch opportunities to students in a speed-dating-style format.

She also attended the Marketing Career Fair and collaborated with other students on promotional materials showcasing university labs. Within weeks of attending the career fairs, Annabelle secured a summer 2027 sales internship with Cintas.

“These experiences have allowed me to connect with professionals, learn more about potential career paths, and gain valuable experience before graduation,” Annabelle said.

Although sales was not an available major at her previous institution, she is now considering adding it as a second major.

Finding community and support

Annabelle credits the people she has met at Akron with helping her make the most of her first semester. Lisa Littlejohn, assistant director of the Fisher Institute for Direct Selling; Dr. Vanja Djuric-Zoric, chair of the Department of Marketing; Bill Kroll, director of the Fisher Institute and associate professor of practice; and her professors have encouraged her to get involved and pursue opportunities for growth.

Her classmates have also helped her feel at home.

“I appreciate being surrounded by people who encourage one another to succeed,” she said. “We learn from each other just as much as we learn from our professors, and those relationships have helped me feel connected to the university and more confident in my future.”

That support has challenged Annabelle’s expectations of attending a larger university.

“My favorite thing about the University of Akron and the College of Business is how much the faculty genuinely cares about students’ success,” she said. “Before transferring, I worried that attending a larger university would mean becoming just another name on a class roster. I could not have been more wrong.”

Annabelle also appreciated that all her previous college credits transferred to Akron. Credits that did not apply directly to her major counted as electives, helping make her transition smoother.

Advice for future transfer students

Annabelle encourages students considering a transfer to embrace change and explore opportunities beyond their comfort zones.

“I know it can be difficult to leave a place where you feel comfortable, especially when it is all you have known,” she said. “However, being willing to step outside your comfort zone can lead you to places and opportunities you never knew existed. Transferring to Akron has shown me how much can happen when you are willing to take that first step and say yes to new experiences.”

Considering a transfer? Explore degree programs and transfer resources through The University of Akron College of Business to discover your next opportunity. Schedule a time to meet with the College of Business Undergraduate Advising team by clicking here.