Transfer Student Success Initiative at NC State-Transfer Student Success Initiative at NC State

Video Transcription

Video Summary

NC State’s Accounting Department shared its Transfer Student Success Initiative, created to better support the growing number of transfer students entering accounting, especially those taking Intermediate Accounting. Faculty noted that many transfer students miss early networking, student organization involvement, and some prerequisite accounting background, which can affect retention and performance.<br /><br />The initiative is organized into three phases: before arrival, early in the semester, and ongoing support. Before classes begin, students receive an optional, no-cost, in-house review course covering principles of financial accounting. They also attend transfer orientation sessions where they meet faculty and, increasingly, former transfer students. Early in the semester, the department hosts a welcome reception to build community and connect students with faculty, advisors, peers, and professional contacts.<br /><br />During the semester, support continues through facilitated study groups, one-on-one peer mentoring, a new Accounting Transfer Student Hub, and a GroupMe community for quick questions and connection. Student mentors Connor and Jason described how these efforts helped them feel welcomed, build confidence, and navigate both academics and professional opportunities. They emphasized that transfer students often need intentional outreach and flexible support.<br /><br />Early data suggest the review course and other supports are associated with better grades and stronger engagement, though participation is optional. The department sees the initiative as a way to strengthen belonging, improve success in challenging accounting courses, and retain more transfer students.

Keywords

NC State

Accounting Department

Transfer Student Success Initiative

transfer students

Intermediate Accounting

student retention

peer mentoring

study groups

welcome reception

financial accounting review