The transition from a community college to a large university can be frightening; the RAM Transfer Academy (RTA) at Colorado State University is working to change that experience for transfer students. The program aims to help students from Front Range Community College navigate the academic and social challenges of continuing their education at CSU.
One of the most pressing concerns for transfer students is how their credits will apply to their degree. Erin Pitts, an instructor and program leader for the RTA, and Orlando Cruz (an instructor and mentor within the Academy explained the distinction between transferability and applicability of credits.
“While many courses may transfer, not all fulfill degree-specific requirements”. Cruz said. Tools like Transferology provide students with an understanding of how their coursework aligns with CSU’s degree plans. Cruz added that the program works directly with students to ensure their class registrations align with major requirements, allowing them to save time and resources.
A Course Designed for Belonging
A central feature of the RTA is its specially designed course that draws on CSU’s proven AAA curriculum and faculty expertise.
Pitts, who teaches and organizes the course, explained that it builds academic skills. “It teaches students how to access resources and supports major exploration. Importantly, it also fosters social belonging—an often-overlooked factor that research shows is key to student success.”
The curriculum incorporates mindset interventions to help students understand the differences between community college and university structures.
Growing Recruitment and Community Support
This fall is the first whole semester of RTA’s work, with ambitious recruitment goals. Pitts and Cruz reported a goal of enrolling over 100 students, backed by better communication to previous semesters. The focus on community support has already proven significant. Students are encouraged to build peer networks and engage in both academic and social activities that strengthen their transition experience.
Expanding Opportunities for Transfer Students
Pitts pointed to several CSU opportunities designed specifically for transfer students. These include the New Student Seminar course, as well as a study abroad program in Costa Rica tailored for transfer participants. While older programs, such as IU 300, have been cut due to funding, ongoing discussions indicate continued innovation in supporting transfer student engagement.
Stories of Transformation
The Academy’s work is not just about logistics. G McDonald shared his personal story of moving from homelessness to stability through education, emphasizing the role of structured programs like RTA in reducing imposter syndrome and promoting upward mobility. His journey underscores the broader impact of higher education on first-generation and low-income students.
Looking Ahead
Instructors like Erin Pitts and Orlando Cruz ensure students are registered in the right classes for their majors. As Pitts summed it up, the goal is simple but powerful: to help students not only transfer credits, but transfer confidence.
