San Jose State University graphic design transfer tips?

I'm currently at Mission College and looking to transfer to SJSU for graphic design. Any tips on making this transition smooth? How does portfolio evaluation work, and are there specific courses I should focus on now?

Transferring to San Jose State University (SJSU) for their renowned Graphic Design program is a great choice. Here are some steps to ensure a smooth transition:

Academic Pathway: Ensure that you're on the right academic pathway that's transfer-friendly. Articulation agreements between Mission College and SJSU for the Graphic Design major can be found on the Assist.org, which is an official repository of articulation agreements across California colleges.

Course Requirements: SJSU requires completion of a set of specific course requirements or "Golden Four" (Written Communication, Oral Communication, Critical Thinking, and Quantitative Reasoning) for transfer admission. Besides, your program might require additional coursework, so be sure to check with both your advisor and SJSU's transfer requirements for Graphic Design.

Maintain GPA Standards: Keep your GPA competitive. According to SJSU, the minimum GPA to apply as a transfer student is 2.0 (2.4 for nonresidents), but this can vary based on the program's popularity.

Submission of Portfolio: SJSU's graphic design program does require a portfolio review for transfer students, which is likely to heavily influence admissions decisions. The objective is to demonstrate your best design work that reflects your creative thinking ability, problem-solving skills, and craftsmanship. Typically, portfolios should include 12-15 pieces of your strongest and most recent work.

Portfolio Preparation Courses: Consider taking courses at Mission College that contribute to portfolio development. Hands-on classes where you create tangible design projects would be particularly useful.

Campus Involvement: If possible, get involved in graphic design-related extracurriculars in your current institution. This might range from joining a graphic design club, to volunteering to design logos or posters for other campus clubs or events, or even freelancing for local businesses.

Finally, be sure to apply on time and meet all deadlines. Make sure to leverage the resources available, such as Transfer Center or counselors at Mission College as well as resources at SJSU, to guide you through the process. With careful planning and the right strategy, your transition should be smooth. Good luck!