Student view: Transferring to leadership at Michigan State

MSU celebrates National Transfer Student Week from Oct. 20 to 24, recognizing the achievements and contributions of students who transfer between colleges and have joined our campus community. This week, we spotlight Sarah Elshaw, an animal science major with a concentration in equine industry, expecting to graduate in the spring of 2027. Elshaw is an active community member on campus as an Associated Students of MSU representative and a member of the Transfer Student Advisory Board in the Transfer Student Success Center.

In February 2024, I realized the path I was on no longer aligned with my goals or passions. I had been pursuing a path in a three-year accelerated psychology program, but a personal turning point made me reevaluate everything I thought I wanted. During that period of uncertainty, a friend encouraged me to explore working with animals — a field where I truly felt at home. When I began looking into Michigan State University, it immediately felt like the right fit. Discovering the Transfer Student Advisory Board in MSU’s Transfer Student Success Center reaffirmed that MSU was not just a university — it was a place where I could grow, connect and find new opportunities.

When I decided to transfer, I remember visiting campus and being amazed by the wide variety of clubs, activities and welcoming students. The registrar’s office was incredibly helpful in explaining how my credits would transfer and identifying any courses I’d need to retake. On my first night at MSU, I received several emails from the Transfer Student Success Center, or TSSC, which prompted me to attend Sparticipation and explore the various student organizations available. That experience helped me make new friends and find a sense of belonging in groups like Second Stage Musical Theatre and University Christian Outreach.

This year, I was able to help out at the beginning of the semester at a tabling event for the Transfer Student Success Center. It was amazing to witness the community in action and see the interactions between students and campus resources. There are so many opportunities and support systems available to transfer students.

One of these valuable resources is the Spartan Transfer Hub podcast, which highlights different campus resources and how to access them. It’s an incredibly helpful tool for navigating MSU as a transfer student.

Serving as a transfer student rep

My position in ASMSU is on the General Assembly, where I serve as the representative for all transfer students. This is the first semester that the Transfer Student Advisory Board has had this position, making it a meaningful milestone for transfer representation. The role is significant because it ensures that the voices of transfer students are heard and their perspectives are considered in university discussions and decision-making.

The General Assembly brings together representatives from diverse organizations across campus to share insights and advocate for their communities. Being the first person to hold this role has been a rewarding learning experience, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed gaining a deeper understanding of MSU’s legislative processes and student governance.

Transferring can be intimidating — navigating a large campus, adapting to new academic structures and searching for scholarships can all feel overwhelming. The Transfer Student Success Center has supported me in countless ways, and I’m deeply grateful. Charles Jackson, director of TSSC, and Ashley Hewlett, TSSC program coordinator, have both been instrumental in helping me secure funding, connect with others who share similar experiences and make my MSU journey truly meaningful.

Through my involvement with the Transfer Student Advisory Board and as an ASMSU representative, I’ve created experiences and memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.

Proud to be a Spartan

National Transfer Student Week holds special significance for me because it represents visibility and appreciation for students who began their college journeys elsewhere. This year, we welcomed 1,365 transfer students — nearly 13% of the incoming class. Transfer students are an essential part of MSU’s community, and having a week dedicated to celebrating them fosters a stronger sense of belonging and pride.

It’s an incredible honor to be a Spartan — and an even greater privilege to be a transfer Spartan. Go Green! Go White! And Happy National Transfer Student Week!

For a week of connection honoring transfer students and the advisors, staff and faculty who help them on their journey, check out the Transfer Student Success Center’s events.