BSc Computer Science Student
Where I studied previously
3-year Advanced Diploma in Computer Programming and Analysis at George Brown College in Toronto
Why I chose Trent
When I was researching where to finish my degree, Trent honestly wasn’t on my radar at first. But then I discovered the transfer agreement between George Brown and Trent, and everything changed. I realized I could bring in 10 transfer credits and only needed 10.5 more to finish, basically just two years. That told me right away that Trent genuinely values transfer students. Then I saw the scholarships. As someone paying for school on my own, the number of opportunities available, including the entrance scholarship, made Trent stand out even more. The funny part is that I had never been to Peterborough before moving here. I had no idea what to expect. But from the moment I arrived, I was surprised by how welcoming everyone was, both at Trent and in the city. That sense of kindness and community made what could have been a stressful transition feel manageable and even exciting.
My favourite place on campus
The Freedom Lounge in the Student Centre is probably my favourite space on campus. When I first arrived at Trent, a friend introduced me to the Black Student Success (BSS) group, which holds its sessions there on Wednesdays. Being part of that community helped me navigate my first year, feel supported, and meet people who understood my experiences. Because of that, the Freedom Lounge feels like a safe, grounding space for me a place where I can connect, relax, and feel at home on campus.
What I like to do outside of Academics
Outside of academics, I like to paint, write poetry, and game in my spare time. Painting and gaming are fun ways for me to relax, but poetry is what really helps me unwind and ground myself when I need it. It gives me a way to slow down, reflect, and express whatever I’m feeling in the moment. .
My thoughts on the challenges encountered by new transfer students
Transfer students often carry a kind of double identity. We're not brand new to school, but we’re brand new to this school. We come in with habits, expectations, and routines from our previous institution, and suddenly we need to relearn everything from scratch. For some of us, there’s also a gap between programs, which can make you question your confidence at first.
Another challenge is navigating Trent’s course registration system. Many transfer students come from colleges where timetables are preplanned and the only decision you make is choosing a section. Suddenly having to build an entire schedule from scratch deciding what courses to take, making sure they fit together, and figuring out prerequisites can feel overwhelming, especially in your first year.
That’s why strong support systems matter. Trent’s Academic Skills department was a huge help for me. They understand the challenges transfer and mature students face, whether it’s adjusting to new academic expectations, rebuilding study habits, or simply finding your footing. Knowing there were services designed for students like me made a big difference.
A service, resource, or tool that helped me navigate my first year or first semester
One service that really helped me navigate my first year at Trent was the Academic Skills department. As a transfer student, I had to adjust to a completely new academic environment, and their workshops and one on one support made that transition much easier. The Study Café for Mature and Transfer Students helped me understand what was expected in university level assignments, rebuild my study habits, and get comfortable with Trent’s academic culture. Knowing there was a service designed to support transfer and mature students like me made a huge difference in my confidence during that first semester.
In addition, I highly recommend reaching out to your TA whenever you’re having challenges with course content, they can clarify concepts, provide guidance, and help you stay on track. The Black Student Success (BSS) group was also a huge support for me. Being part of their community helped me navigate my first semester, feel supported, and connect with others who shared similar experiences. Together, these resources made my transition to Trent much smoother and more manageable.
My one piece of advice for new transfer students
Starting over isn’t easy. Leaving behind your support system, your friends, your family your entire community, is one of the hardest parts of transferring, especially as a mature student. The age gaps, the new environment, the feeling of being “new” again. It can be intimidating, I felt all of that when I arrived. But my biggest piece of advice is put yourself out there. Go to orientation events even if you feel shy. Join clubs even if you don’t know anyone yet. Say yes to opportunities. The more you get involved, the more Trent starts to feel like your place, and the easier everything becomes. Looking back now, I’m grateful I took that leap. The connections I’ve made and the experiences I’ve had are what turned my transfer journey into something I’m proud of.