Transferring with a B. in English from Community College

I'm working towards a B. in English at my community college and considering transferring to another school. What factors should I look out for when choosing the right transfer college for English majors?

When considering a transfer college as an English major, there are several factors you want to pay attention to ensure the most seamless transition and to maximize your academic experience.

1. Transfer Admission Rates: Some colleges have higher transfer admission rates than others. Check the rates to gauge your likelihood of being accepted.

2. Credits Transfer: Review the school’s transfer credit policy. You want to ensure as many of your community college credits as possible will transfer to the university, so you don't have to retake classes and can graduate on time.

3. Major-Specific Curriculum: Look at the specific curriculum offered for English majors at potential transfer schools. You want to find a curriculum that aligns with your academic and career goals whether that be in literature, creative writing, journalism, cultural studies etc.

4. Professors: Review the faculty in the English Department for their areas of specialty, publications, and overall reputation. Engaging professors who are specialists in your areas of interest can greatly enhance your academic experience.

5. Capstone Experiences: Some schools offer capstone experiences for English majors, such as a major paper, project, or other final showcasing of your work. These can be excellent opportunities to demonstrate your mastery and enthusiasm for the subject, and to create a piece of work that might help you with future academic or job applications.

6. Career Services: Career services can be particularly important for English majors. The department can provide insights into internships and job opportunities that can enhance your career prospects. They can also be supportive in resume and cover letter writing, interview training etc which are essential skills for English majors.

7. Alumni Success: Research where graduates of the program have ended up. Have they gone on to jobs you're interested in? Graduate programs? This can give you a good sense of the program's track record.

8. Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes can facilitate engaging discussions, personal feedback on your work, and a close-knit community with fellow students and faculty.

9. Location: If you are interested in a particular type of literary work or writing (like scriptwriting for Hollywood, or journalism in NYC), then being in a specific location could offer internships and networking opportunities that you can’t get elsewhere.

In addition to these academic considerations, don't forget about financial aid and housing options for transfer students. Conduct a thorough review to ensure that the transition will be both academically and financially feasible for you. Good luck in your search!