Role of Bergen Community College school official in transfer process?

I'm planning my transfer from Bergen Community College and heard interacting with a school official can help. What exactly does their role entail, and how can they assist me in transferring successfully?

A school official can be a tremendous resource in your community college transfer process. Specifically, you might work with a transfer counselor or academic advisor who specializes in assisting students navigate the path toward transferring to a four-year institution.

To start, these individuals have broad knowledge about the requirements and procedures specific to transferring from a community college. They're often well-versed in articulation agreements (if available), which are partnerships between community colleges and four-year institutions that ensure certain credits will transfer smoothly.

Besides their thorough understanding of transfer processes, these counselors can serve as guides in helping you select courses. They can help identify classes that not only fulfill your associate degree requirements but also align with the prerequisites of the bachelor's degree program you wish to enter. Their advice in this area can prevent you from investing time and money into classes that do not contribute to your educational goals.

They can also assist you with the application process itself, including reviewing application checklists, keeping track of deadlines, and even providing tips on personal statements or essays, if required. In some cases, they may also provide some advice in deciphering financial aid or scholarship information too.

Beyond academic and administrative aspects, counselors can provide a listening ear and offer emotional support throughout the often stressful process of transfer. Their experience working with numerous other students in similar positions can offer reassurance and decrease feelings of isolation.

Remember, every community college and university will have slightly different resources and processes, but your advisor is a great place to start. Frequent, open communication with this individual will be essential to ensure a successful transfer process.