By Julie Deacon, digital communications intern

October brings fall leaves, chilly temperatures, hot beverages, and National Transfer Student Week, when we celebrate and support transfer students who have joined the Department of Computer Science. 

The transition from community colleges or other four-year institutions can be exciting, but also challenging. Navigating larger classes, a large and bustling campus, and more demanding coursework require support. Taking advantage of university resources and reaching out to advisors are integral parts of a positive experience as a transfer student, said Tonisha Montgomery, an academic advisor specializing in transfer student support. 

“As a transfer advisor, I encourage students to voice their concerns and utilize the resources at their disposal. By modifying class schedules, I can help students select manageable workloads and convenient class times that align with their lives,” Montgomery said. 

Montgomery is hosting two events for computer science transfer students:

  • October 21, 3:30–4:30 p.m.: CS Welcome at Newman Library, RM 207A
  • October 22, 12:30-2 p.m.: CS Transfer Lunch and Learn in Torgersen Hall, RM 1100

Building Connections  

To ease transfer students into their new surroundings, Virginia Tech provides a comprehensive virtual orientation designed to welcome transfer students and equip them with essential information about the program, registration procedures, and major requirements.

Socially, many transfer students thrive in smaller settings during their first semester. In computer science, a class offered to all transfer students -- CS 1944 -- plays a crucial role in fostering these connections. It offers an environment where students can collaborate on group projects and engage in discussions about their transfer experiences. This course creates a safe space for students to find peers with whom they can build lasting relationships, according to Montgomery.

Teaching assistants and faculty, as well as other services, such as career fairs can also help smooth the transition.

“One of the biggest challenges I faced was making friends, as most engineering students were deeply focused on their classes and projects,” said Yash Atal. “However, the department’s teaching assistant office hours became a social hub, where I not only received academic support but also built connections with fellow students. This sense of community was a key part of my positive experience at Virginia Tech.”

“The computer science and Virginia Tech career fairs for engineering students proved very helpful to me,” Shayne Perryman said. “While I didn’t get a job from the fair, it did teach me lessons about proper dress, how to set up my resume, and most importantly, it allowed me to practice my communication skills with interviewers.

“I do hope whoever reads this will find comfort in the fact that you are not the only person that is nervous or shy, and all it takes is that one single step and you can make lifelong friends and memories that you will cherish,” Perryman said.

Virginia Tech celebrates National Transfer Student Week with a series of meaningful events featuring speakers such as faculty, computer science alumni, and campus representatives. These events highlight various resources that can benefit transfer students, ensuring they’re aware of the support systems available to them.