Celebrating National Transfer Student Week at Trinity
The National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students proudly presents National Transfer Student Week, a time dedicated to honoring transfer students and the dedicated professionals who guide them on their educational journeys. This year, we will celebrate from October 21 to 25.
At Trinity Christian College, we understand that many students have already begun their pursuit of a degree, and we are committed to helping them take the next steps toward their careers. We strive to create an environment where all students can thrive, and for our transfer students, this means leveraging their previous experiences and knowledge as a springboard to future success.
During this week of recognition, we are thrilled to spotlight the achievements of our transfer students, including Mary Mathieu ’27, whose inspiring journey shares the faith-filled spirit of the Trinity Christian College community. Join us in celebrating our student successes and the unique paths they forge as they navigate their educational pursuits.
The Success of Transfer Students at Trinity
-Mary (Honey) Mathieu ‘27
As a transfer student who is quadruply majoring in criminal justice, English, social work, and psychology, I can attest to the many opportunities that Trinity provides its students. School has always been my safe and Trinity has provided me with the academic rigor that I had hoped for in my classes upon transferring, especially in Honors Program courses. My classes challenge me in ways that I have never been challenged before. One of my favorite classes that I have taken at Trinity thus far is Restorative Justice with Dr. Connelly. In this course, we learn about restorative justice principles and practices which are extremely helpful for my future career as a social worker, advocate, and author who hopes to work in the child welfare field. I find myself discovering more about myself and the type of professional I hope to be one day since coming to Trinity and for that I am grateful.
My favorite part about the College is its Wellness Wednesdays Initiative. I have struggled with my mental health for the longest time due to the complex trauma I have faced in the past, and having wellness promoted on campus was one of the major reasons I chose to transfer to Trinity. Having Wednesdays off from classes allows me to maintain a schedule filled with opportunities. My first semester here I took advantage of the Co-Op Program which allowed me to have a paid internship with Streetwise in Chicago. I also participate in student worker employment opportunities as a Marketing Department Student Writer and Library Assistant. Regarding extracurriculars, I am the Co-President of Criminal Justice Club and hope to soon start a Mental Health Club on campus. There are a lot of opportunities to get involved in on campus—you just have to find your place.
My story is unique as I decided to transfer after completing four years at my former institution. I took this leap of faith because I wanted a school that would help me grow not only academically but also spiritually and mentally. Since coming to Trinity, I have been exploring Christianity as someone who was raised Catholic. Finding God again in the little things has been a great joy as He is ever present through the multitude of spiritual growth opportunities that are available on campus weekly. I have also met incredible professors who walk faithfully with their students through their academic journeys and friends who are equally as passionate as I am about making a difference in the world. Trinity is the place to be if you are looking for growth as the College challenges you in the best ways possible while still recognizing that growth requires support along the way. Faculty and staff have definitely helped shape my experience as a Troll as they truly see students as people, not numbers. This is why Trinity is special.
