The University of Akron (UA) is proud to celebrate the success and resiliency of transfer students during National Transfer Student Week, which is being held this year from Monday, Oct. 19 to Friday, Oct. 23.

Transfer students, who make up around 12.2% of the UA student population, bring a special perspective to campus and an appreciation for the University. For the fall 2026 class, UA’s transfer student population grew 5.3% over fall 2025.

The University will host an event for transfer students on Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Jean Hower Taber Student Union, Room 312. Information tables will be staffed with representatives from UA’s colleges, along with staff from the offices of Exploratory Advising and Academic Support, Admissions, Adult Focus, ZipAssist, and Mentorship and Student Development.

There will also be an opportunity for students to swap T-shirts from their previous schools or from a different higher learning institution for UA gear. Games, drinks and Zippy cookies will also be available.

The top majors and departments for students transferring to UA were allied health, nursing, management, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, social work, biology and computer science. Most students transfer from higher education institutions in Ohio.

National Transfer Student Week is an annual, nationwide movement that celebrates transfer students and the supporters who champion their success. NTSW empowers campuses across the country to create more welcoming spaces where transfer students do more than just arrive, they thrive.

Several UA students and one alumnus – University of Akron President R.J. Nemer ’90 ’95 – transferred to UA from other institutions share their success stories below.

"I’m more connected now and feel much less isolated."

Name: Miriam Duhamel 
Hometown: Shaker Heights, Ohio
Major: Psychology

What factors were most important to you when deciding to transfer? What were the academic programs, opportunities or resources you were looking for?

Location was a huge factor for me. I wanted a defined campus but to still have easy access to the city. UA is perfect for that. The campus is lovely and even being actively improved, and within walking distance of downtown Akron. I was also thrilled to discover that UA’s psychology program is really strong. The psychology department is truly wonderful, and I’ve had the opportunity to take some fascinating electives with incredible professors.

How did you find UA and what led you to transfer here?

I worked at a summer camp between sophomore and junior year. One of my coworkers attended UA and absolutely raved about it! That’s why, when I needed to move back to Ohio, UA was the first school I thought of in my search.

How has the University met your needs or expectations?

The University of Akron has really been wonderful for me from the start. The transfer office helped me sort out all of my credits, even from high school and obscure courses. The Office of Accessibility in particular has provided me with all the resources I could need.

What helped you feel like you belonged at UA?

I already had a few friends here, but that circle of friends grew far more quickly than I could have expected. From day one, people were reaching out to help me get settled and involved on campus. From classmates to administrators, I met so many people who were genuinely interested in what I had to say. You don’t get lost in the crowd here like you might at other schools of similar sizes.

How would you describe your experience as a transfer student?

I worried at first that I would feel underprepared or that as a transfer I wouldn’t get the same orientation opportunities. But that wasn’t true! I had all the same Welcome Week opportunities as incoming freshmen, plus transfer events. My transfer counselor was super supportive and helpful, and always got back to me quickly when I had questions. Now that I’m here and in my second year, I would say my experience is the same as other students.

What opportunities have you taken advantage of since arriving?

This semester, I have the opportunity to take an [Un]class through the EX[L] Center for Community Engaged Learning. [Un]classes are hands-on, real-world projects in the Akron community that also provide college credit. I’m working on a project with the UA Archives this semester. It's been an incredible experience so far! I have also joined some clubs on campus. So far, I have been in the Urban Agriculture and Beekeeping Club, and I am a student leader for Akron Hillel.

How have your relationships with professors, advisors, classmates or other students shaped your experience?

Before coming to Akron, I was focused entirely on academics. I didn’t get involved at all. But here, my classmates and advisors have really pulled me into the fold. I’m more connected now and feel much less isolated. Knowing that the Akron community has my back has made me more willing to try new things. I’ve taken classes I never would have before and taken leadership positions I never thought I could. Because my classmates and professors have been so supportive, I’ve developed much more confidence in myself and my abilities.

What advice would you give to a student who is considering transferring?

Don’t let overwhelm stop you from transferring. The whole process is easier than you might think, and transfer counselors are incredibly friendly and helpful. Transferring really isn’t so scary or challenging!

"The faculty has gone above and beyond to support my career development."

Name: Annabelle Kegley
Hometown: Navarre, Ohio
Major: Marketing with an interest in adding a double major in sales

What factors were most important to you when deciding to transfer? What were the academic programs, opportunities or resources you were looking for?

When deciding to transfer, it was important to me to find a university that would invest in my career development and provide opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. I wanted to be somewhere where faculty members genuinely cared about their students and wanted to see them succeed. I was especially looking for a strong business program that would help me build connections, gain real-world experience and prepare for my future career.

How did you find UA and what led you to transfer here?

Living only 40 minutes from Akron, I had always known UA was an option. However, my decision to transfer came after I had to medically retire from athletics at my previous university. Leaving a school where I had been a student-athlete was difficult, but it also gave me the opportunity to find a university that better aligned with my academic and career goals. I knew several people who attended UA and had great things to say about it, especially the College of Business. Hearing about their experiences made me confident that Akron would be a great fit for me.

How has The University of Akron met your needs or expectations?

The University of Akron has not only met my expectations but exceeded them. The faculty has gone above and beyond to support my career development and help me take advantage of opportunities outside the classroom. I have never experienced this level of encouragement and investment in students before. It is clear that the faculty genuinely wants students to make the most of their college experience and graduate feeling prepared for their careers.

What helped you feel like you belonged at The University of Akron?

The faculty and staff in the Fisher Institute for Professional Selling, including Professor (William) Kroll and assistant director Lisa Littlejohn, and Vanja Djuric, the chair of the Department of Marketing, have played a tremendous role in helping me feel comfortable and welcomed at The University of Akron. Lisa introduced me to students involved in the institute, which helped me begin building connections and getting involved. From that point on, I have continued to experience support and encouragement from both the faculty and students. Having people who genuinely want to see me succeed has made a huge difference in helping me feel like I belong.

How would you describe your experience as a transfer student?

My experience as a transfer student has been better than I could have imagined. The opportunities available here have helped me grow, build connections and gain a clearer understanding of my career goals. Transferring was a big step, but I truly feel like I have found a place where I belong and where I am encouraged to reach my full potential.

What opportunities have you taken advantage of since arriving?

Since arriving at The University of Akron, I have taken advantage of several opportunities through the College of Business and the Fisher Institute. I participated in a field trip to Palmer Holland, one of Fisher's corporate partners, where I had the opportunity to learn more about the company and its workplace. I also attended the Fisher Sales Career Fair, which offers a unique format where companies pitch their opportunities to students in a speed-dating style before students connect with the businesses that interest them most. I later attended the Marketing Career Fair, and just a few weeks after these events, I secured a sales internship with Cintas for the summer of 2027. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work with a few other students on promotional materials showcasing some of the University's labs. These experiences have allowed me to connect with professionals, learn more about potential career paths, and gain valuable experience before graduation. I am grateful for how many opportunities I have been able to pursue in such a short time.

How have your relationships with professors, advisors, classmates or other students shaped your experience?

The relationships I have built with professors, advisors and other students have been a huge part of my experience this semester. Lisa Littlejohn, the assistant director of the Fisher Institute for Direct Selling, Vanja Djuric, the Department of Marketing chair, Professor Bill Kroll, the Fisher Institute director, and my professors have encouraged me to get involved and take advantage of opportunities that will help me grow. My classmates and other students have also been incredibly welcoming. I appreciate being surrounded by people who encourage one another to succeed. 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.

What advice would you give to a student who is considering transferring?

My advice would be to take the step, even if it feels uncomfortable. Leaving a school where you have established relationships and a familiar routine can be difficult, but pushing myself outside my comfort zone was one of the best decisions I could have made. Once you get to Akron, I would encourage you to say yes to opportunities, meet new people and get involved. The University's message, "The World Needs More Yes," has really come to life through my experience. Saying yes to one opportunity can lead to connections and experiences you never expected. Taking that chance can help you grow, discover new possibilities and become better prepared for the career you want to pursue after graduation.

"Transferring has helped me grow not only as a student but also as an individual."

Name: Winsten Lomax
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Major: Mechanical engineering, math minor

What factors were most important to you when deciding to transfer? What were the academic programs, opportunities or resources you were looking for?

I was looking for a university where I could continue growing as a student and pursue academic opportunities that weren't as accessible at my previous institution. I was particularly interested in undergraduate research, becoming involved with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), and finding a strong mechanical engineering program that would challenge me academically and professionally.

How did you find The University of Akron and what led you to transfer here?

Both of my sisters attended The University of Akron, so I had been familiar with the campus from a young age. Growing up, whenever I thought about college, Akron was one of the first universities that came to mind. That familiarity, combined with the academic and extracurricular opportunities available, ultimately influenced my decision to transfer.

How has The University of Akron met your needs or expectations?

The University of Akron has far exceeded my expectations by providing opportunities for me to challenge myself and grow in nearly every area of my education. One thing I truly appreciate is that whenever I express interest in something, there are resources and people willing to help me pursue it. For example, my interest in research led me to become involved in hands-on engineering projects and eventually conduct research internationally in Japan. Akron has allowed me to explore my interests beyond the classroom and turn them into meaningful experiences.

What helped you feel like you belonged at The University of Akron?

The welcoming culture and the people I met played a major role in helping me feel like I belonged. I encountered many students who were open to building friendships, including me in activities, and introducing me to new people. Those interactions allowed me to explore different social circles and eventually find a community of friends who shared my interests and values.

How would you describe your experience as a transfer student?

I would describe my experience as a transfer student as both exciting and eye-opening. Entering a new environment surrounded by new people gave me the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, build meaningful relationships, and experience things I might not have otherwise. Transferring has helped me grow not only as a student but also as an individual.

What opportunities have you taken advantage of since arriving?

Since arriving at The University of Akron, I've become heavily involved in undergraduate research, which has been one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience. This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Japan to conduct research in sustainable composite materials. It was truly an eye-opening experience that broadened my perspective on engineering and research.
I've also had the opportunity to take on leadership roles within the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), where I currently serve as Vice President. Through NSBE, I've been able to develop my leadership skills, connect with other engineering students, and help create opportunities for professional and personal growth within our chapter.

How have your relationships with professors, advisors, classmates or other students shaped your experience?

The relationships I've built with my professors, advisors, and fellow students have greatly expanded my perspective on the opportunities available to me, both professionally and personally. My professors have encouraged me to challenge myself, explore new interests, and pursue opportunities I might not have initially considered. These relationships have shown me the importance of surrounding myself with people who inspire growth and push me to become a better student, engineer, and individual.

What advice would you give to a student who is considering transferring?

My biggest piece of advice would be to embrace the opportunity and not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Transferring can seem intimidating because you're entering a new environment, meeting new people, and adjusting to a different academic experience. However, it can also open doors you never imagined. I would encourage students to get involved, build relationships with their professors, and take advantage of every opportunity that interests them. Most importantly, don't be afraid to put yourself out there. You never know how one conversation, one organization, or one opportunity could change the direction of your college experience.

"I really loved how small class sizes were, and all the amazing professors I met."

Name: Brooklynn Moore
Hometown: North Canton, Ohio
Major: Social work, certificate in gerontology

What factors were most important to you when deciding to transfer? What were the academic programs, opportunities or resources you were looking for?

I came to UA after deciding I didn’t want to pursue nursing at my old university and decided to change to social work. Akron had a really nice campus even though I visited in the middle of winter! I really loved how small class sizes were, and all the amazing professors I met before coming here. 

What helped you feel like you belonged at The University of Akron?

Getting involved in student organizations really helped me feel like I had a place at UA. I was in both online and in person classes up until this semester and having extracurriculars tying me to campus helped me feel involved.

How have your relationships with professors, advisors, classmates or other students shaped your experience?

I was surprised how helpful my intro social work class professors were. They were so welcoming and helped me adjust at UA!

What opportunities have you taken advantage of since arriving?

The university that I came from did not specifically offer social work as a major. Having the program alone was a game changer. Also, internship opportunities really allowed me to network before graduating. 

What advice would you give to a student who is considering transferring?

If you think that UA might be a great fit for you, I absolutely think it's worth trying. I know when I was contemplating leaving my previous university I wasn't sure if I was going to continue in college at all. I was unsure of transferring to Akron, but I'm so glad that I did. You won't know if something's great for you unless you try it!

"I love all the people that have come into my life here at Akron!"

Name: Riley Willis
Hometown: Canton, Ohio
Major (and minor and/or certificate, if applicable): Integrated social studies 7-12 education

What factors were most important to you when deciding to transfer? What were the academic programs, opportunities or resources you were looking for?

Being able to find professors that I could talk to and they would be able to understand me.

How did you find The University of Akron and what led you to transfer here?

My mom had seen President Nemer at an event, and he told her that I could transfer to UA and get the scholarships I would have had if I come the first time.

How has The University of Akron met your needs or expectations?

It's been really good. I have all the resources I need and all my professors care that I succeed.

What helped you feel like you belonged at The University of Akron?

My friends and professors.

How would you describe your experience as a transfer student?

Coming here, I was kinda nervous because I was at a bigger school before coming to Akron. I have really enjoyed the social life, and I have here and the friends!

What opportunities have you taken advantage of since arriving?

Making sure I am speaking with my advisors and professors, plus getting jobs on campus has helped me a lot.

How have your relationships with professors, advisors, classmates or other students shaped your experience?

Amazingly, I love all the people that have come into my life here at Akron!

What advice would you give to a student who is considering transferring?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. People are here to help you no matter what so don’t be afraid to ask.

Media contact: media@uakron.edu