Transfer Student FAQ
Transfer students may find the following answers to frequently asked questions helpful. If you have an inquiry that does not appear below, please contact the Student Affairs Office at 410-778-7752.
Do I have to go to Orientation?
All new students are required to attend Orientation and it's not nearly as painful as you may think! Even if you attended an orientation at your previous institution, you are expected to attend the entire Washington College orientation. You will attend most events with your Peer Mentor group and all events are designed to familiarize new students with both Washington College and the surrounding Chestertown community. In the past, transfer students who participated fully in orientation routinely tell us that they were glad they did because they not only met new students but met many upperclassmen, faculty, and staff members who were critical to their successful transition.
If you want to discuss your specific situation and any questions that you have about orientation, please feel free to contact Associate Dean, Sarah Feyerherm in the Student Affairs Office at sfeyerherm2@washcoll.edu or by calling 410-778-7752.
What sort of orientation events are geared to transfer students?
All of the orientation events are appropriate for transfer students, as they have been created to help all of our new students transition to the Washington College environment. There is also an evening meeting and social event during orientation that is held specifically for our new transfer students, so that you can get to know other students in the same situation as well as other members of the Washington College community.
Will I be in a Peer Mentor group with other transfers or with freshmen?
Transfers are concentrated into two Peer Mentor groups so that they can get to know each other but still have opportunities to interact with freshmen. Two of our more experienced Peer Mentors lead those two groups and are particularly aware of the unique transition issues facing transfer students. Learn more about the Peer Mentor program.
Who do I talk to about transferring my credits from my previous institution?
All admitted applicants receive a preliminary credit review of their transcripts within 2-3 weeks of the admission decision. The registrar's office performs an official review of the final prior to entering Washington College.
Students transferring to Washington College from a Maryland institution may review their transfer credits through the University of Maryland ArtSys program on the internet at artweb.usmd.edu.
The maximum number of credits that will transfer is 72, from both a 2 and a 4-year institution.
Any questions you have about your credits at a former institution and the transfer of those credits should be directed to the registrar's office (410-778-7299). Questions about registering for classes and the academic requirements at Washington College should be directed to the Associate Provost's office (410-778-7206).
If I'm living on campus, will I live with another transfer student? Will I be living with a freshman?
Housing is done according to compatibility rather than whether or not you are a transfer student. Therefore, you may be housed with an upperclassman, another transfer student, or possibly a freshman. The housing process takes several factors into consideration, such as neatness and study habits. Roommates/suitemates are matched accordingly. If you have specific questions about your housing assignment, you can contact Associate Dean and Director of Residential Life, Sue Park at spark2@washcoll.edu or by calling 410-778-7752.
Is it hard to get involved in campus life as a transfer student?
No, it is not difficult to get involved! There are more than 60 different clubs and organizations in which students can participate during their time at WC. These clubs welcome new members all the time, whether they are first-year students, transfers, or upperclassmen. Additionally, at the beginning of the fall semester, a club fair is held to inform new students about various opportunities to get involved in campus life. This year, the club fair is being held on September 7th from Noon - 3 p.m. on Martha Washington Square. If you would like more information about getting involved in clubs and organizations, you can also contact Jared Halter, Director of Student Activities at jhalter2@washcoll.edu or by calling 410-778-7146.
How many students transfer into Washington College every year?
The number of transfer students fluctuates each year, but typically there are between 25 and 45 students who choose to transfer to Washington College. Transfers play an important role in the Washington College community because they bring a unique perspective to the campus and a keen appreciation for all that Washington College has to offer.
I didn't attend any of the Summer Registration Days and don't have my e-mail account set up yet. How can I do that?
The Office of Information Technology is responsible for acquainting you with the relevant technology issues on campus.
Do I have to take AlcoholEdu?
All new students are required to take AlcoholEdu before classes begin. If you took the online class at your previous institution, you will not have to take it again here. If you have any questions about AlcoholEdu or want to speak to someone about the requirement, you should contact Beth Anne Roy (broy2@washcoll.edu) or call 410-778-7752.