Transfer Student Spotlight

Amari Bellard

Involvements: NAACP, Student Activities Board, RHA, Campus Life, Psychology Club, Psychological Services, Kitchens on the Geaux

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The greatest challenged I faced was getting adjusted to how big the campus is.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My proudest moment is being able to call myself an LSU alumni. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU is being able to go to all the home football games. 

Any shout outs? I would love to give a shout out to Dr. Davis at the Psychological Services Center. He has helped me so much throughout my time at LSU. He has always been so kind and resourceful! 

Carol Roberson

Involvements: I truly loved participating in the service learning aspect of my college time at LSU.

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: For me personally it was navigating with the different online program and submitting my work. That was totally due to me being out of school for over 15 years. A lot have changed technology since I was in college last.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: Maintain a good grade point average

What is your favorite thing about LSU? Everyone was so helpful and knowledgeable. The professor were very well trained in disciplines. Faculty, staff, and student workers well exceptionally good at their jobs and duties. Even the custodial works were kind and took the greatest pride in their jobs, also. 

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Utilize the help and services that this great university have to offer. It will be to your advantage.

Any shout outs? Precious Bursar office. All of the staff and advisors in the College of Humanities and Social Science. Dr. Shindo, Dr. Isenberg, Dr. konsoer, Dr. P. Allen, Dr. Smelly, Dr. Moon, Dr. Denicola, and last but certain sky not least Dr. Kissel my English Professor.

Casey Messinger

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: My biggest challenge when I first transferred was getting used to how large the campus is! Whenever I thought I saw it all, I’d find something else. There’s always something to do or see.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My proudest moment while at LSU was having two pieces of art I made featured in an art show at a university in China. I could not have done that before transferring.

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU would have to be the team spirit. No matter where you’re from, when you’re at LSU, you’re a proud Tiger!

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? It can seem overwhelming and that’s okay but stick with it and you’ll be glad you did. Ask lots of questions and remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. Do some extracurricular activities. Trust me that it’s worth it!

Any shout outs? Shout out to Erin Schell who was an academic counselor in the College of Art & Design office! She was the biggest help as a transfer student! She helped me with my schedule in every way imaginable and was always willing to help the students. She’s amazing and I wouldn't have made it without her!

Cody Sturrock

Involvements: Member of the LSU Chess Club, Vice President of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Member of Tau Sigma National Honor Society

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: Adequately studying for the graduate requisite exam while taking a full semester of courses 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My greatest success during my time at LSU was increasing my overall knowledge of psychology, statistics, and Spanish. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? I love going to the LSU football games. Geaux Tigers!

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? My advice to incoming or new transfer students would be to for them to stay focused on their academics and prioritize that over partying!

Any shout outs? I would love to give a shout out to the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences for always being informative and accommodating!! 

Delton Johnson

Involvements: Member of Alpha Kappa Psi- Held two officer positions; Master of Rituals and Pledge Educator -- Genesis Mentor -- Professional Sales Institute

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: On top of already being a transfer student I'm also a non traditional student which made it challenging to feel like I belonged at LSU.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: One of my proudest moments would have to be joining Alpha Kappa Psi. This is where I met a lifetime of friends and family.

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU would have to be the camaraderie everyone shows on campus about the school.

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Don't be afraid to put yourself out there to make new friends and never be afraid to ask questions.

Emily Owens

Involvements: Student Philanthropy Council and Tri Delta Sorority

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: I was very involved in the university I transferred from and was nervous when coming to LSU especially as a senior that I was not going to find my place or be able to find opportunities to be involved. Thankfully, with the help of some amazing friends and with the numerous organizations LSU has to offer, I found my place and truly enjoyed my last year.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My proudest moment and greatest success was being honored to be the Director of Communications for the Student Philanthropy Council. From being able to help grow the giving culture at LSU, learning from and being able to work with the Foundation staff, meeting incredible people and working to raise money to benefit students going through hardship or to keep improving our university was such an incredible experience I was so grateful to be apart of. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU is how welcoming everyone was and the amount of school spirit and pride the students and alumni have for the university. Being able to affiliate with Tri Delt, I felt like I had known the girls in there since Freshman year and the way they included, inspired and loved me was truly incredible and I am so thankful for them. 

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Don't see transferring as just a different campus to earn for your degree, look at it as an opportunity to make a difference in a new place. 

Any shout outs? Some special shoutouts are to Victor Castellon for helping me get involved, Professor Gary Reed for making nuclear policy so interesting and truly caring for his students, and to the ladies of Tri Delt at LSU for making me feel at home. 

Grant

Involvements: Multiple volunteer opportunities and ROTC 

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: Adapting to the culture of LSU and Louisiana 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: Saved someone's life after they got hit by a car

What is your favorite thing about LSU? The people

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Keep your chin up, eyes forward and nose clean.

Any shout outs? I can't say enough about Dr. John Fletcher. One of the greatest teachers I have ever had the pleasure of having. If you are ever given the opportunity to take him as a teacher, do it. I also have to shout out the Dietetics/nutrition program here at LSU for being one of the most professional and kind I have ever seen. Lastly, I shout out the LSU community (outside of gameday cuz that's a whole other story). I have made some of the best friends and folks I can consider family here. This school, through all of its infrastructure shortcomings, has a way of bringing people together. geaux tigers

Javier

Involvements: Chevron Leadership Academy & Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The larger classrooms compared to a community college. It makes it much more difficult to have impromptu one on ones with your professors/instructors before or after class.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: Definitely graduation. I would always be warned by other faculty and students that once I got to LSU it would be much harder and most won't make it all the way through, so this is a very special day for me.

What is your favorite thing about LSU? Easy. Saturday nights at Tiger Stadium! I didn't grow up in Louisiana, so I was never a big college football fan, but once you are a student here and look onto the field from the student section before a big game, it is bone rattling.

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? You are not alone and try and make friends with other students who are also transferring to LSU. You will feel a lot better if you stick with the people that you know and faces you recognize on campus. Don't be intimidated by the other students, the class sizes, or the difficulty. You can make it through! Take advantage of the new relationship opportunities you will make at LSU. They are vital to your career and many of the people you meet will leave Louisiana after graduation, so make the connection now.

Any shout outs? The ECE Faculty for being passionate and dedicated to their teaching. Dr. Liz, Adrienne Steele, and Boz Bowles at the Chevron Center for Engineering Education for always being there for the students who need them. Mary Boudreaux for making my transition from BRCC to LSU as easy and enjoyable s possible. Everyone at the Career Center for being extremely helpful with resume, interview advice. Take advantage of them!

Jourdan Munson

Involvements: I am the Marketing Intern at Knock Knock Children's Museum 

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The greatest challenge that I have experienced in transferring to LSU was not knowing that there is a difference between an overall GPA and an LSU GPD. Some senior colleges look at both GPAs before accepting you into the college. 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My greatest success during my time at LSU was overcoming my learning disability. I am dyslexic and I decided to drop my accommodations when I entered college. When I transferred to LSU I instantly regretted my decision when I had 500 people in a class. I am beyond proud of myself for sticking to my commitment to myself to do college on my own without academic help of any kind. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite things about LSU is the sports and all the opportunities that students get when it comes to attending the events. I also absolutely love getting to walk past Mike every day!

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? DO IT! Do not be scared yes it is a big school and there are some huge classes. But, nothing is more rewarding than finishing a degree at LSU, because you are always able to say that I graduated from one of the best schools in the nation!

Any shout outs? I would like to give a shoutout to my parents! They have been my biggest support system throughout my entire college career. I could not be where I am at today without their constant love and support! In times when I felt like giving up, I would look to my dad who is also an LSU alumnus and he would tell me how everyone was against him and he proved them wrong. In my multiple breakdowns and times of wanting to drop out my mom was there to pick me back up and put all my pieces back together and offered to do whatever because she never stopped believing in me! I love you both from the bottom of my heart!

Kaleigh Sullivan

Involvements: Account Executive for Catapult Creative Media

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: My biggest challenge transferring to LSU has been catching back up to technology in education. I was out of school for about 4 years, and much had changed. 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My proudest moment was the moment I got my acceptance email to LSU. My parents and I were in Florida taking a vacation to the beach. I remember, my dad was sitting on the loveseat and I was sitting on the couch when I saw the email come in. We both started crying. It was an honor and a privilege to go to the best school in the state. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU is the community and the atmosphere. Students all work to lift each other up and support one another. Oh, and the football team. National Champs baby!

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Don't be afraid to reach out to people or try new things. You have no idea what experiences you can have unless you try. Stop caring so much about what other people thing. Do what makes you happy and what is best for YOU!

Any shout outs? I want to give a shoutout to my family who have loved and supported me through the last 3 years. I want to give a huge shoutout to Bob Anderson, Doug Draper, Tad Odell, and Sadie Wilks! You guys have been so supportive and fantastic teachers who always pushed me to be better in the classroom and outside of it as well!

Kaycee Foreman

Involvements: I am a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and the kinesiology club 

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The greatest challenge for me was being away from home and balancing LSU life with hometown life. 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My proudest moment was passing physics because I am horrible at math. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? Everything from the culture, to football games, my friends and overall the laid back environment of campus. 

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Never pass up an opportunity to hang out with your friends or to do something fun your time at LSU will fly by all too quickly and you never truly know when it's the last time you'll see your friends. 

Any shout outs? I would like to give a shoutout to Scott Crousillac for being the best physiology teacher and making science fun for once. 

Madison Miller

Involvements: Kappa Delta Epsilon - Honorary Teaching Fraternity

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The first few weeks upon transferring to LSU were the most challenging because I felt like a tiny fish in a very big pond! It's a large campus with so many students, so I wasn't sure when I would find my niche. After those first couple of weeks, I found myself creating wonderful friendships that I still have today as I am graduating. 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: There have been several moments at LSU where I felt immense pride! Being honored on the President's List was one of those times. Another would be during this time of distance learning. LSU students have so much grit and display such perseverance during hard times, so I am very proud to say I still managed to succeed and graduate even in these unprecedented times! 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? I think the sense of community at LSU is like no other. We really are a big family. 

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Your experience at Louisiana State University will be one that you cherish for the rest of your life. Make sure you take the time to slow down, stare up at those beautiful live oaks, and appreciate every moment before you graduate. 

Morgan Acosta

Involvements: Former Sports Nutrition intern. Avid LSU Gymnastics fan.

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: My greatest challenge in my transfer here to LSU was figuring out which courses did not transfer and which classes I needed to take. However, it was not a challenge that lasted too long as the staff was able to assist me in any way possible.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My greatest success during my time at LSU happens to be one of my last moments here at the university. I found out in April that I was matched to Samford University's dietetic internship where I will pursue my Master's Degree in Nutritional Sciences. I truly believe I would not have been as prepared as I was to take this next step if I were at any other university.

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU is the passion found among students and faculty. It shows from the classroom to a Saturday night in Death Valley. LSU is simply a great place to be.

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? My advice to any incoming or new transfer students is to just enjoy the ride. When I transferred and found out I would need to take a 5th year before graduating, I was disappointed. Then I soon realized that extra year was meant to bring more exciting opportunities that I would have missed out on in just 4 years. Take it slow and enjoy every moment, because God has already written it all out for you anyway. Geaux Tigers. Forever LSU.

Phelan

Involvements: I was a LSU student health center worker, an undergraduate interpersonal communications researcher, an undergraduate avian neuroendocrinology and behavior researcher, and a horticulture club member. I also have my own business called the Plant Fae. I grow plants, sell plants, propagate plants, and give advice to people about plants. 

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: Adjusting to the size of the school, classes, and the student body. I am from a small town, and it could be overwhelming at first. I also have Crohn's disease and had to be careful with my health in order to be successful in school. 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: I'm going to be starting my PhD at LSU and become a graduate researcher in cell biology next year. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? The spirit and diversity of students. 

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Expect to adjust and don't be scared to reach out to teachers or use LSU's resources! Also, study!

Any shout outs? I would like the thank the following: My boss at the LSU Student Health Center, Mrs. Angela Hardin, and the faculty have been amazing. My research professor Dr. Christine Lattin is one of the kindest, smartest, and bravest women I know. She's a great scientist and a great teacher. My research professor Dr. Ryan Rasner who has always been supportive and uplifting. Dr. Patrick DiMario for being an above average teacher, and giving me the opportunity to continue my education at LSU. Lastly, my family and friends for their love and support. 

Rechaun Eskridge

Involvements: I was a participant in the Transfer Student Leadership Institute and Leave Your Mark Project. I served as a transfer student peer mentor. I was a member of Minority Women's Movement during my first year at LSU. I also volunteered with St. Vincent de Paul for a semester in 2019.

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The greatest challenge that I encountered when transferring to LSU was adapting to the large setting. I was intrigued by the campus but intimidated. I wonder if I would be able to successfully navigate the campus, learn about all the valuable resources that the university had to offer, and feel at home. There were so many new faces and methods of handling things related to my education. As a new transfer student, I hoped that I would be able to connect with students and be embraced as part of the tiger family. Transfer student programs empowered me and inspired me in my new journey as a transfer student. The staff was always prepared to provide direction and address my concerns to smooth my transition. Through participating in transfer student events and meeting individuals that were transfer students like myself, I was able to cultivate new friendships. Getting involved with transfer student programs made me more confident and agreeable with the idea of stepping out of my comfort zone. With the help of Transfer Student Programs, I have developed into an individual that is willing to take initiative and accept challenges. As a result, I was able to conquer my fears about settling into campus and interacting with others.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: Public Speaking has been a skill that I have always feared growing up. Being an LHRD major requires an individual to develop themselves for the better. One must be determined to strengthen their weaknesses to exercise sound leadership and serve as a great example to others. Transfer student programs provided me with the opportunity to improve my skills in communicating with a large group of individuals and face my fears. Last year, I had the chance to share my story and advice while welcoming incoming transfer students at the Transfer Student Orientation. Participating in this event was a tremendous accomplishment for me, as I was uneasy about public speaking in the past and allowed my fears to limit my possibilities. I had the opportunity to reflect on how much I had learned since transferring to LSU. Speaking at this event and interacting with other transfer students to help them succeed deeply motivated me. That experience was a massive milestone in my journey as a student.

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU is the spirit of the school. Although I transferred to the university in 2018, it feels like home and like I have been a student at the university for years. I love the character and unique charm of the school. Collectively everyone associated with the school is so vibrant, passionate, and welcoming. At LSU, I genuinely feel as though I am a part of a family. I adore every element that makes the school what it is: such as dedicated educators, innovative students, sports, and campus architecture. I will miss campus life a great deal, and I am beyond grateful for my experience.

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Do not be afraid of the new journey ahead. I know that it is scary and possibly intimidating, but you are capable of greatness. You will succeed in your endeavors on campus. Believe in yourself! Do not be afraid to ask questions. Being curious about campus functions will help you to adapt to the new school quickly. Do not be shy. Talk to your classmates and campus personnel. You should also volunteer because it will benefit you in so many ways. Get involved in transfer student programs and attend campus events. Getting active is one of the best steps you can take to get acclimated to the new environment. Be patient with yourself. It can take some time to process your new lifestyle as a transfer student. You will figure everything out gradually, and it will become easier to navigate challenges that may arise. Lastly, do not be too cool for campus maps, they will never lead you astray, and they will be a great resource to maneuver through campus.

Any shout outs? I want to thank Transfer Student Programs for offering various growth opportunities that have been instrumental in molding me into the person I am today. Thank you, Alyssa Jacobs. She has a genuine passion for helping students to become the best versions of themselves. She was one of my most prominent adherents throughout my journey at LSU. Always ensuring that I was well and having a good transfer experience, Jacobs was determined to keep me active by informing me about campus resources and opportunities. She fosters growth for each student that she encounters. She has been such an inspiration. I would also like to thank Briana Nelson and the Olinde Career Center. Briana Nelson provided me with such valuable advice. She is very eager and passionate about students thriving professionally. Nelson has been a significant influence in my academic career by assisting me in my professional growth and helping me to plan my next steps as a graduate.

Samantha Harris

Involvements: Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority 

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: Not knowing anyone. But by joining Theta I felt welcomed and knew that I had made the right choice to transfer to LSU and I had the best college experience. 

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My greatest success is to graduate in May. I am a first generation college graduate all the way from Rhode Island. I love my school and how impactful my time has been here. 

What is your favorite thing about LSU? The community. I was welcomed with open arms being from out of state and a transfer student. LSU has the nicest faculty/staff and community I've ever been a part of. 

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Get involved! Make your time worth it here. It goes by incredibly fast. 

Any shout outs? My parents. They have supported me in transferring from SEC schools and encouraged me to chase my dreams. The Psychology Dept at LSU rocks!

Sierra Doaks

Involvements: Air Force ROTC Program, Golden Key International Honor Society

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The academic adjustments were really difficult. The classes were a lot harder at LSU. And the culture was a lot different.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: Graduating most definitely! Being a RA was fun for a little while as well

What is your favorite thing about LSU? The resources available, there's so many.

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Use ALL the resources you can before you start to fall behind.

Any shout outs? Ms. Bridget Robicheaux, she was my academic counselor for a while when I transferred and really helped me through a lot of tough decisions  

Che' Jones

Involvements: Transfer Student Leader Institute & Construction Student Association

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: My greatest challenge is commuting from New Orleans, LA to Baton Rouge, LA. I also work as a construction office assistant with The Lemoine Company full time in Marrero, LA. When I'm not working or at school, I spend my days & nights with my kids & girlfriend.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My proudest moment is completing my first year as a TIGER!

What is your favorite thing about LSU? I love the school spirit & the love of everyone whose involved!

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? My advice is DON'T be intimated! Its easier than you think!

Any shout outs? I would like to give a shout out to my Mom, Sabrina Royal, for being so supportive always & my kids, Sage' & Kave, for helping mommy evolve into the woman she is today! #Classof2021

Molly Alimia

Involvements: Alpha Phi - director of sisterhood 2018

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: Learning to live on my own while juggling school and work was a big deal for me! It was a lot of freedom all at once but I've come to learn a lot about myself and love living on my own!

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: The day I walked out of my advisor's office after signing my graduation papers (for August 2020), when I was a high school student I was unsure I would be able to complete college. But I pushed myself to do the work and I can't wait to graduate!

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing at LSU has been making life-long friends and watching football games with them, especially experiencing this historic season with my friends!

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Don't be too hard on yourself! LSU can be a big adjustment but it's worth it in the end.

Any shout outs? I'd like to shoutout my whole family! They have supported me all throughout college and have given me the strength I needed to make it through.

Rachel

Involvements: LSU Softball manager

Greatest challenge you've experienced in transferring to LSU: The greatest challenge I've had when transferring to LSU was the rigorous academics.

Proudest moment/greatest success during your time at LSU: My proudest moment at LSU was being able to sit front row at the National Championship game.

What is your favorite thing about LSU? My favorite thing about LSU has to either be the atmosphere or the people. It's incredible being able to walk by Death Valley and Mike's habitat every day while going to class. The people here are really friendly and the professors go out of their way to help students.

Any words of advice for incoming or new transfer students? Don't get intimidated by the size of the campus! Once you get in the routine of going to class it doesn't seem so big.

Any shout outs? Every professor I've had has been amazing! Specifically Dr. Dee Jacobsen, she has helped me with scheduling classes every semester and has been an amazing mentor.