Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Adult and Transfer Center is celebrating National Transfer Student Week (NTSW) from Oct. 21-25, recognizing the unique experiences of adult and transfer students.
“At EKU, we understand the transformative power of education and the unique paths many of our students take to achieve their goals,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Supporting our transfer students and celebrating their success is not only vital to their personal growth, but also enriches our entire campus community.”
According to a survey from Inside Higher Ed, 80% of students who start out at a community college say they intend to earn a bachelor's degree, but fewer than a third of them transfer to a four-year college within six years, and just one in six earns a four-year degree within that time.
EKU’s Adult and Transfer Center focuses on supporting students in reaching the finish line and celebrating their success throughout their academic journey. For the Fall 2024 semester, EKU has more than 1,200 transfer students, a 5.5% year-over-year increase.
The center works to ensure students get maximum credits for their previous coursework, aids with scholarship and financial aid and meets with students one-on-one to guide them through their transfer. Once again recognized for creating pathways to support transfer students, EKU was named to the 2024 Transfer Honor Roll list by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
“EKU is the perfect mix of everything I like, so there wasn’t just one factor that sealed the deal for me,” said Alexander Zacarias, an EKU transfer student from the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). “During my time at KCTCS, I did online classes so transitioning into an in-person role when it came to learning was an experience in itself. Being immersed in the university lifestyle makes you yearn for a bigger and brighter future. I am most excited to see what memories EKU has in store for me. I’m a current political science major and would like to work in Frankfort, getting involved in politics in a way that helps the people who need it the most.”
This year, EKU is launching the Adult and Transfer Success Committee during the beginning of NTSW, bringing together leaders across the university to further develop innovative strategies that enhance the adult and transfer experience.
“I believe that building strong personal relationships is essential to a successful transfer experience,” said Chris Butcher, associate director of transfer. “Too often, intention doesn’t meet the outcome when it comes to transfer or degree attainment, but by understanding how collegiate systems and relationships intersect, we can bridge that gap. It’s about embracing the student experience and working together to ensure that every student is served not only efficiently, but with humanity and care."
EKU’s commitment to excellence is rooted in the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. Students like Zacarias reflect EKU’s mission of being a place where everyone belongs and where students can reach their full potential. The university remains committed to creating comprehensive opportunities for all learners, offering exceptional experiences that ensure their success. More information about EKU’s Adult and Transfer Center can be found at eku.edu/transfer.