By Brittany DeLaney
Ivy is a Senior attending Western Washington University pursuing a major in Human Services. She began her higher education journey at Whatcom Community College with the opportunity to play for the WCC Women’s soccer team on a scholarship. After finishing her sophomore year she transferred to Western.
“Take breaks. Try not to fill your plate 100%. Ask for help”
What were your initial thoughts when applying for college?
“I clearly had no idea what I was doing, where to look or where to go. I thought that I wanted to apply for a college in California. I had lived in Bellingham since I was born and had always wanted to live somewhere warm. I applied for Santa Barbara Community College and Whatcom Community College, and ultimately chose to go to Whatcom because I got an offer to play on the Women’s soccer team on a scholarship. I was scared, but excited to do something on my own.”
How has your transition from high school to higher education affected you as an individual?
“The transition was nothing like I imagined it would be. I had an easier transition than I anticipated, it came naturally to me to be independent and resourceful. The transition taught me that I am stronger than I thought, and more adaptable that others might have expected.”
Could you describe any challenges you faced during college?
“My biggest challenge was not having the support from my family. It was hard for them to understand that I needed to leave in order to achieve the goals that I had more myself. I found myself being lonely in my experiences, but I later realized that I have a strong support system that is my chosen family.”
What was your experience like when using resources at your college?
“I’ve had good and bad experiences. When it came to financial help, I always got very clear answers about how to receive help. It was academic advising that was a struggle for me. Even when I got my Associates in Arts and Science, I really had no idea what I wanted to do. I felt lost and like I didn’t belong in any of the career paths I had already considered. I eventually found the right Academic Advisor that helped me explore different degrees, which is when I decided on Human Services at WWU.”
Thanks Ivy for sharing your experiences with us! We wish you all the best as you complete your senior year!
If you, or someone you know have resources or tips for transfer students, please feel free to include them in the comments section below.
WCC Women’s Soccer Team 2015