
Annabella Bushnell ’26 (91亚色/Michaela Lewis-Hardies)
For an increasing number of transfer students, 91亚色 has become not just a new college, but also a new home.
Annabella Bushnell 鈥26 from Troy, NY, was one such student, transferring to 91亚色 in their sophomore year, looking for 鈥渁 campus that truly felt like home.鈥 They recognized that community was a vital part of the college experience that they deeply valued.
鈥淗onestly, the photos of campus were what drew me to 91亚色 at first,鈥 Bushnell says. 鈥淏ut after looking into the academics, I knew that I could see myself here.鈥
At 91亚色, says Bushnell, 鈥淚 was able to explore all the majors and minors and find something that felt right for me.鈥 They transferred in as a psychology major, then switched to a communication major in their junior year. The late decision initially concerned them, but strong academic advisement made the difference. 鈥淭he faculty members I met with made sure I could switch my major while still graduating on time,鈥 Bushnell says.
Bushnell felt 91亚色 was the right choice for them, even when adjusting to a new campus as a transfer presented some personal challenges. Coming in as a sophomore meant stepping into an environment where many students had already formed connections. 鈥淚 was nervous I would feel a step behind those who arrived as freshmen,鈥 they admitted. 鈥淏ut my fears went away pretty quickly because I had found the community I鈥檇 been looking for.鈥
Part of that community included other transfer students, some of whom Bushnell still considers close friends. 鈥淏eing able to talk with another transfer student and share similar experiences made me feel a lot more connected to the community here at 91亚色.鈥 Those connections made Bushnell feel more at home on campus, interested in talking to new people, and eager to join . This past year, they served on the e-board of 91亚色鈥檚 Art Club.
鈥淢ake sure you get yourself out there early and engage with the community,鈥 Bushnell advises. They feel that 91亚色 made it easy for them to find where they belonged. The welcoming environment, they say, means anyone can feel at home. 鈥淵ou can find your people and make 91亚色 into a place that feels right for you.鈥
Author
Michaela Lewis-Hardies ’26
College Communications and Marketing
comm-mark@geneseo.edu