What should I know about RCC college transfers?

I'm thinking about starting at RCC to save on tuition but want to make sure transferring afterward isn't a hassle. What are the key things to know about transferring from RCC to another college?

Transferring from a community college like Riverside City College (RCC) to a four-year institution can be smooth if you plan properly. Here is some insight that hopefully can come handy:

1. Academic Record: Start with a strong academic performance at RCC. The grades you earn at community college will be critical in your transfer applications.

2. Articulation Agreements: Look for schools that have an articulation agreement with RCC. These schools have a predetermined acceptance of RCC course credits, which can make the transfer process more predictable.

3. Choosing Majors: When you enroll at RCC, choose a major that aligns with your future academic and career goals. This can help ensure that the course credits you earn will be relevant to your target bachelor's degree program.

4. Course Planning: Consider meeting with an academic counselor. They can help you make sure the classes you're taking will fulfill the general education requirements and prerequisites of the universities you're aiming to transfer to.

5. Transfer Deadlines: Make sure to be aware of the transfer application deadlines for each institution you're considering. Deadlines can vary, and missing these deadlines could delay your plans by a semester or more.

6. Public vs Private: If you are looking to transfer to a public university, especially within California, the pathway can be more straightforward due to strong transfer systems between community colleges and state universities. Transferring to out-of-state or private universities might require additional planning.

7. Extra-Curricular Activities: Apart from academics, engage in extra-curricular activities. Like in your first-time college application, universities evaluate transfers for their involvement outside the classroom too.

For example, California has a specific system in place to facilitate transfers from community colleges to its four-year public institutions. Students can follow an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) pathway, which offers guaranteed admission into the California State University system. Other UC schools also prioritize community college transfers. While this doesn't necessarily guarantee admission, having this pathway can guide your course selection to fulfill the general education requirements and prerequisites with greater certainty.

Remember that every transfer application process may be unique, and it is important to communicate with the admissions department of your target school to understand the specific requirements and processes. Good luck with your educational journey!