(Illustration by Skylar August using Canva)
By Skylar August
Cape Cod Community College students considering a bachelor’s degree will have a chance to explore their options this month at the Fall Transfer Fair.
The event, held Oct. 14–15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Grossman Commons, brings more than 40 colleges and universities to campus. No registration is required, and students are encouraged to stop by at any time.
“The main goal of the Transfer Fair is to make the transfer process approachable and accessible,” said Althea Adlien-Wilks, one of the event organizers. “For students considering a bachelor’s degree, this is a chance to compare options side by side, ask about admission requirements, and clarify how their 4Cs credits will transfer.”
The biannual event is one of 4Cs’ signature programs, connecting students directly with admissions representatives to learn about transfer pathways, scholarships and academic programs. This year’s lineup includes UMass Amherst, Bridgewater State University, Salem State and Suffolk University, along with newcomers Sacred Heart University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Even students unsure about transferring are encouraged to attend. “Many students leave realizing they have more options than they thought,” Adlien-Wilks said. “There’s no commitment required — just conversations and information gathering.”
To get the most out of the fair, Adlien-Wilks recommends students bring an unofficial transcript or list of completed courses and prepare a few questions, such as:
What GPA is required for admission?
Are transfer scholarships available?
How will my 4Cs credits transfer?
She also encourages students to speak with unfamiliar schools. “They might discover a program or pathway they hadn’t considered before,” she said.
Planning for the fair begins months in advance, involving collaboration among advising staff, the communications team, facilities and student services. Adlien-Wilks said the expanded roster of colleges this year offers students even more variety and choice.
Whether students are ready to apply or just starting to explore, Adlien-Wilks said the Transfer Fair provides a low-pressure environment to learn about their options. “It’s never too early to start thinking about transfer,” she said.
The Fall Transfer Fair runs Oct. 14–15, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. in Grossman Commons on the West Barnstable campus.
