Academic Skills and Identity Development for Transfer Students

Are you a transfer student at the University of Washington (UW) looking to make the most of your academic journey while building connections with others? This is a two-credit course designed specifically for first-quarter transfer students coming from Washington State community and technical colleges. This course will help you explore your academic identity, plan your academic and career paths, and build valuable social networks. You'll connect with fellow transfer students, faculty, staff, and peer leaders, creating a supportive community as you navigate your new environment.

  • Enroll during your Advising & Orientation session.  
  • Taught by a NSTP staff member 
  • Co-taught and supported by Transfer Peer Educators

Please note:

  • Section C is for any incoming transfer student from a Washington State community and technical college
  • Sections D, E, and F are for transfer students in Informatics

Register for General Studies 205 

Why Enroll in GEN ST 205?
  • Reflect on Your Journey: Understand how your past educational experiences can shape your future success at UW.
  • Discover Resources: Learn about the academic and campus resources available to help you achieve your goals.
  • Plan Your Future: Create a comprehensive academic, career, and networking plan that aligns with your goals
  • Build Networks: Develop strategies to expand your social and professional connections at UW and beyond.

Course Highlights:

  • Interactive Class Sessions: Engage in dynamic 90-minute sessions covering a variety of topics.
  • Guest Presenters: Gain insights from guest speakers from various UW offices
  • Peer Leader Support: Learn from and be supported by current UW transfer students..

Grading & Participation:

This course is graded on a Credit/No Credit (CR/NC) basis. To earn credit, you'll need to actively participate in class sessions and complete major assignments. Your engagement and reflections will shape the learning experience for everyone.

 Enroll in GEN ST 205 to kickstart your journey at UW with confidence and support. Connect with peers, discover resources, and plan for a successful academic and career path. We look forward to welcoming you to our learning community!

 

Instructor Information

Instructor: Dr. Emily Kolby, She/Her

Dr. Kolby is the Director of Curriculum and Engagement and has a PhD in Adult & Higher Education from Oregon State University. Prior to working at the UW, she worked for 15 years in academic advising at Bellevue College. Her work focuses on helping students move into and through college via different pathways. She is excited to support transfer students at the University of Washington. In her free time, she enjoys exploring local coffee shops, taking aerial photos, and watching Broadway musicals.

 

Peer Educator Information

We are excited to introduced you to your Autumn 2026 Transfer Peer Educators. They teach portions of the course, connect with you individually and within small groups, and, most importantly, share their experiences of transitioning into the UW as a transfer student.

Rico Bullock (He/Him)

What advice do you have for new students?

Take a quarter to get used to things and create routine. You have plenty of time to go be an academic superhuman so block out some time and space to meet people, try something new, and set a strong structure and routine (study, sleep, recreation, etc).

Isabelle Cole (They/Them)

Majors:

Art and Biology (Intended)

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I love the fountain because it is always beautiful no matter the time of day.

Emily Fleetwood (She/Her)

Major:

Journalism and Public Interest

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love the campus environment; it's always bustling with students and full of energy. Plus, there's so much variety; whether you're looking for a place to stop and enjoy the scenery or a quiet corner to get some work done, there are unlimited spaces that fit whatever you need.

Betty Holmes (She/They)

Major: 

Economics

What advice do you have for new students?

Try to connect with as many people as you can! New connections give you a chance to learn about so many things you may not have heard of or even considered.