The unique perspective of transitioning students, especially in the STEM disciplines, from an isolated rural community college, New Mexico State University Carlsbad, to a four-year institution will be discussed. The challenges are many: Inadequate academic preparation, undefined goals, lack of support systems, prospects of employment opportunities, family commitments, geographic isolation, need for financial support, differences between the two-year and four-year institutions, and a lack of knowledge of how transfer processes and educational institutions work. Some possible solutions include working with the four-year institutions, orientations for transfer students, encouraging students to visit four-year institutions, internships, field trips, meeting practicing professionals, education in financial and other types of resources, intense mentoring, educating faculty at both the two year and four-year institutions, and discussion with colleagues in meaningful dialog. The presenter has developed a set of questions and varied activities to help STEM students decide if a transfer to a four-year institution is a workable option.

Pushing from a community college, pulling towards a four-year degree

247th National Meeting (2014)

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