In Transition: Your Resource for Transfer Success and Well-being

(formerly known as the Transfer Affinity Group newsletter)

Happy finals week! This time of the semester can be very exhausting. With the holiday break just around the corner, it’s important that you stay on path and use your free time effectively to get in essential study time while maintaining your mental well-being.

Important Dates

December 11 - Last day to submit a fall 2024 Petition for Late Schedule Adjustment.

December 12–18 - Final examinations

December 24–27 - Winter recess. Faculty/staff holiday. Campus closed.

January 1 - New Year's Day Observed. Faculty/staff holiday. Campus closed.

Transfer

Life Pro Tips: Mikayla

(Major: Graphic Design)

I’m a San Diego local and I transferred from Miramar Community College! I currently serve leadership roles as a graphic designer board member for Epsilon Eta (environmental honors service frat) and The Look Magazine, which is SDSU's 1st student-run magazine that highlights student art, fashion, and design. I’m additionally involved in Alpha Phi Omega national service frat and KASA’s traditional Korean fan dance group. I work as a peer mentor for the Commuter Resource Center and I also work an events & graphic design internship for Zip Launchpad!

The biggest challenge transferring to SDSU was getting accustomed to going to a new school and managing large classes. I highly recommend for transfer students to not hesitate to reach out for help and to also network with their professors and community! Through networking with my professors, I was able to obtain opportunities and get my works in exhibitions! My favorite thing to do on campus is to explore new places and study with friends!

Transfer Advice Corner:

Research at SDSU

Getting into research at SDSU is a big plus for undergrads! You’ll get real-world experience, connect with mentors who can open doors, and build skills that look great on job and grad school applications. Plus, it’s a chance to work on projects that matter and explore your interests in a hands-on way. SDSU also has events like the Student Research Symposium where you can collaborate with faculty, share your work, and learn from others. It’s a solid move if you're looking to level up academically and professionally!

To get involved in research at SDSU, start by exploring open projects in your department or talking to professors about their work. You can also find opportunities through programs like the SDSU Undergraduate Research Program, summer fellowships, or national listings. Attending campus events like the Student Research Symposium is a great way to learn more. Check out resources for research funding, presentation tips, and mentor connections, and explore SDSU’s library for research guides.

SDSU’s research spans several fields!

Dive into projects on water scarcity, brain science, mobile tech, and climate change, or check out smart health innovations and digital culture. SDSU also has unique programs like Viromics to study viruses and Digital Humanities to explore tech’s cultural impact. Each area encourages interdisciplinary teamwork to solve real-world problems, so there’s something for everyone to get involved in!

Career Planning

Tis the season to give back to your community through volunteer work! Why not use the free time you have during the break to donate your time to those in need? At SDSU, there are plenty of ways to get involved and give back to the community while also building your leadership skills. Through the Leadership & Community Service program, students can find volunteer opportunities that range from helping out with local events to partnering with organizations on social justice projects. It’s a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and gain hands-on experience—all while contributing to causes that matter.

Whether you’re looking to boost your resume or just want to do something meaningful, these opportunities help you grow as a leader and connect with others. Plus, it’s a chance to be part of something bigger than just your classes. Check out SDSU's resources to find the perfect way to get involved!

Campus Connection

There's tons of things to do to help you take a break from all the studying and decompress from finals. In addition to the highlights below, you can find most university events on the Events Calendar.

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Journaling and Calligraphy

Wednesday, December 11, 2024. 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Set yourself up for success! Learn about the benefits of journaling and then make beautiful journals with Jacqueline Toy, Associate Director of The Weber Honors College and small business owner of @morethanlettering. Participants will get a free journal.

Midnight Study Break

Wednesday, December 11, 2024. 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM

Don’t miss the last Aztec Night of the semester, and come join us at Midnight Study Break: Winter Wonderland. Take a break from studying and unwind with games, activities, giveaways and FREE food!

Finals Fun

Thursday, December 12, 2024 through Wednesday December 18, 2024

The APIDA Center is hosting fun activities during finals week! Design your own tote bag, make stickers, play games, and more!

Remember, if you have any questions or would like to request content to be included in the next newsletter, you can reach me by responding to these emails. Good luck on your finals and have a great holiday break!

Vincent Palou

General Advisor & Retention Specialist

Center for Commuter Life