At the University of Miami, student well-being and familiarity with campus life are top priorities. This commitment is reflected in the efforts of the Department of Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement, which aims to show appreciation for transfer students.
Transfer Week will run from Nov. 5-7, showcasing the University’s gratitude for transfer students who contribute significantly to the student body—420 students joined in the Fall 2024 semester alone.
While Transfer Week is an important initiative for students, it is just one of many resources and initiatives available to transfer students throughout the year. The University offers specialized First Year Directions, a one-hour seminar class, and the Tau Sigma Transfer National Honor Society, which aims to recognize and promote the academic excellence and involvement of transfer students.
“Tau Sigma is the highest honor a transfer student can receive outside of other individual awards,” said Jack C. Serra, a senior majoring in history and political science. “It’s brought me friends and a real sense of home here at the University of Miami.”
The overarching goal of Transfer Week is to connect students and foster a sense of community among transfer students.
“We want to celebrate our transfer students and help them find a community with others who have had similar experiences,” said Stephanie Fleitas, associate director of orientation and commuter student involvement. “Transfer Week shines a light on their contributions and the resources available to support them.”
Transfer Week also encourages student involvement, as much of the initiative is run by student assistants from the Department of Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement.
Student assistants Skylar McCartney-Puzio and Remi Turner curated Transfer Week programming throughout the semester, acknowledging various details and drawing from their experiences when they were first-year transfer students.
“I help set up and run the events we’ve planned, and I get to engage with the transfer student community directly,” said McCartney-Puzio, a senior studying psychology and political science. “The department does an amazing job of helping bring these ideas to life.”
"Skylar and I want to encourage transfer students to put themselves out there to further transition into the University, making the most of all the resources available, " said Turner, a senior studying English on the creative track and minoring in advertising.
Find Transfer Week events and activities:
- Tuesday, Nov. 5, 3-5 p.m.: Transfer Week Tea Time—A casual social gathering where students can connect with peers.
- Wednesday, Nov. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.: Transfer Takeover at The Rat—Hosted at the iconic Rathskeller, this event features karaoke and mingling, giving transfer students a taste of campus life.
- Thursday, Nov. 7, noon-2 p.m.: Transfer Picnic and Resource Fair at The Rock—This event will showcase campus resources such as Tau Sigma, Parking and Transportation, The Launch Pad, and the Toppel Career Center. This fair is a great opportunity for transfer students to discover campus resources and support.
