Transfer And Reenrolling Student Advising

Fall 2026 Orientation

  • Transfer Transition Tuesday

    Transfer students are able to sign up for a Transfer Transition Tuesday on one of the following dates: June 23rd, June 30th, or August 4th. Transfer Students are invited to attend a welcome session here on campus which includes a short orientation and lunch. Students will meet with an Orientation Leader and be offered a full campus tour, along with introductions to various departments dedicated to supporting student success. Students will also have the opportunity to complete any administrative tasks and ask questions before the semester begins. All students are strongly encouraged to participate.

     

    To sign up for a Transfer Transition Tuesday: Log into your Westfield State application portal (not myWestfield) > locate the New Student Orientation Registration form in your Checklist > and complete and submit it.

  • Virtual DCGE New Student Orientation

    Are you an incoming online, part-time, or second bachelor’s student? Join our Virtual DGCE New Student Orientation to learn about important resources, university systems, academic expectations, and the next steps for a successful start at Westfield State. Sessions will be offered on July 23rd, August 11th, 2026, and August 20th. 

     

    To sign up for a DCGE New Student Orientation session: Students can sign up on the Virtual Events page. Registration is required, and all new students are strongly encouraged to attend. 

     

    We look forward to welcoming you and helping you prepare for your first semester!

Welcome to the Nest!

Congratulations on your acceptance! The Office of Academic Advising is thrilled to guide you through the first steps of your academic journey. Let's explore the academic support and resources available to make your transition to Westfield State University successful.

Key Steps:

  • Transcript Evaluation: We'll assess your transcript in consultation with your department chair.
  • Class Schedule Creation: Working together, we'll create your class schedule, ensuring a smooth start to your academic experience.

For Transfer and Reenrolling Students:

  • Advisor Contact: Brittany Garand, our Transfer and Reenrolling Student Advisor, will reach out to assist with building your first course schedule.
  • Supportive Transition: Brittany is dedicated to supporting new transfer and reenrolling students in achieving a successful first semester at Westfield State University.

Join the Nest - First Steps

1. Activate Your Accounts:

2. Course Schedule Building for Summer/ Fall 2026:

  • Complete the Summer/ Fall 2026 Course Preference Questionnaire. Fall schedules will begin to be built after February 19th. Summer schedules will be built after March 2nd. The Summer/ Fall 2026 Course Preference Questionnaire will remain open until Thursday, August 27th.
  • Schedules are built based on course availability, prior courses, degree planning, and Department Chair recommendations for your major. Submitting preferences early increases the chance of preference fulfillment.

3. Review the New Student Checklist:

Are you ready for classes? Summer Session I starts on May 19th, Summer Session II starts on July 7th, and the Fall Semester begins on September 2nd. See the checklists below to ensure that you have everything completed and are ready to start the semester. Any questions outside of advising and schedule-building should be directed to the Departments listed in the checklist. 

Check out the Westfield State Campus Map for additional resources and locations.

We're here to support you on this exciting journey! If you have any questions, please contact us.

WSU Transfer Peer Mentor Program

Did you know? Students who participate in peer mentoring often adjust more quickly to campus life and feel less isolated. Research also shows that mentoring can boost retention, improve GPA, and help students build confidence, connections, and a stronger sense of belonging at WSU.

New transfer students can request a mentor here.

What is the Transfer Peer Mentor Program?

The Transfer Peer Mentor Program is a free, semester-long program that connects incoming transfer students with experienced student mentors who were also transfer students. Mentors and mentees connect regularly (in-person or virtually) to support your transition. Mentors also share helpful information such as campus events, important deadlines, and tips for academic success. The goal is to help you successfully navigate your first semester at WSU.

Through the program, you can expect:

  • Guidance on academic resources, advising, and study strategies
  • Insider knowledge to help you prepare for the semester
  • Opportunities to connect with other transfer students
  • Support in building a sense of community on campus 
What should I expect from my mentor?
  • A thoughtful match with a Transfer Peer Mentor based on your preferences
  • A welcome email or text during the first week of classes
  • An invitation to meet (in person or virtually)
  • Ongoing communication with reminders about important dates, deadlines, and campus opportunities
  • Guidance on academic resources, advising, and study strategies
  • Insider tips to help you prepare for the semester
  • Opportunities to connect with other transfer students
  • Support in building a sense of community on campus
What am I expected to do as a mentee?

The program is designed to be flexible. As a mentee, you are encouraged to:

  • Meet with your mentor at least once during the first 8 weeks of the semester. However, many students find it helpful to connect at the beginning of the semester , around advising and registration, and at the end of the semester for a check-in or wrap-up.
  • Respond to your mentor in a timely manner
  • Respect your mentor’s time and communication
  • Ask questions—no question is too small
  • Stay open to meeting even if you don’t have specific questions
  • Communicate if you no longer wish to participate. Participation is not required, but strongly encouraged to help you make the most of your transition.

If you have concerns about your mentor or the program, please contact Brittany Garand in the Office of Academic Advising and Transfer Transition. 

What can I talk to my mentor about?

You can talk to your mentor about anything related to your experience at WSU, including:

  • Adjusting to campus life
  • Navigating academic expectations
  • Finding campus resources
  • Getting involved in clubs and events 

Your mentor was once a new transfer student too - they understand the transition and are here to help.

How are mentors and mentees paired?

Mentees have the opportunity to share their preferences, and we do our best to match you with a mentor based on factors such as major, interests, and shared experiences.

Once assigned, your mentor will reach out to you via your WSU email and text. From there, you can decide together how you’d like to communicate - email, text, or in-person meetings.

Can I become a mentor in the future?

Yes! Many mentees go on to become mentors. It’s a great way to give back, build leadership skills, and support future transfer students. Interested? Apply through the Office of Advising and Transfer Transition to gain experience, share your WSU knowledge, and get paid while making an impact.

Eligibility requirements include:

  • Current undergraduate student who previously transferred to WSU
  • Federal Work-Study eligibility
  • Good academic standing with no history of academic integrity or student conduct violations 

Apply To Be A Transfer Peer Mentor here.

Tau Sigma National Transfer Honor Society

Transfer students who achieve a 3.5 GPA or higher during their first semester at WSU are eligible to join the WSU Tau Sigma National Transfer Honor Society Eta Theta Chapter. Interested students can contact the Tau Sigma Chapter Co-Advisors Brittany Garand  bgarand@westfield.ma.edu or Megan Bishop at mhbishop@westfield.ma.edu. 

Navigating MyWestfield Tutorials

To watch the videos users are required to sign in using their WSU authentication login information. Contact the Technology Support Desk for assistance with the new account setup and authentication.

Walk-In Hours

Monday-Thursday: 8:30 a.m.—4:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:30 a.m.—3:00 p.m.

campus

Contact us

The Office of Academic Advising & Transfer Transition
Parenzo Hall 163