College of DuPage Transfer Guide: What should I know?

I'm starting at the College of DuPage with plans to transfer later. Could anyone share how the transfer guide works in helping you pick the right courses to ensure a smooth transition?

Sure! In general, the transfer guide offered by many community colleges, including the College of DuPage, is a valuable resource that can help you choose the correct courses and streamline your transfer process.

The transfer guide typically includes lists of the courses that you will need to complete at your current institution to fulfill the prerequisites and requirements of the program at your prospective transfer school. Transfer guides are often built in collaboration with four-year institutions, to ensure that completing the guide's course recommendations will maximize your credits upon transfer.

For example, if you're planning to transfer to study biology, the transfer guide will probably include some foundational science courses that are prerequisites for more advanced science classes at the four-year institution. Similarly, if you're planning to major in economics, the guide will likely recommend a set of math and introductory economics classes.

Using your transfer guide, you can map out your academic plan for your time at the community college. Opting to follow the guidelines can increase the possibility that you'll be able to smoothly transition into the program you're aiming for without losing credits or time.

One thing to remember is that while transfer guides are really helpful, they are not exhaustive nor a guarantee. Keep in close contact with your academic advisors both at the College of DuPage and at the schools to which you intend to apply. They will be great resources in making sure your transition is as smooth as possible.

Finally, keep in mind that successful transfer often requires more than just meeting the bare minimum requirements. You'll also want to strongly consider maintaining a high GPA, engaging in relevant extracurricular activities, and putting together a strong application package with well-written personal essays and recommendation letters. Each of these elements can play a crucial role in making your transfer a success.