Division of Student Affairs > Student Life > For New Students > Transfer Success Network

Transfer Success Network

Program Expectations Mentee Tips Frequently Asked Questions Events Drop-In Appointments Meet the Peer Coaches

The Transfer Success Network is a FREE program that connects you with an experienced DePaul Peer Support Coach to help you navigate your first year at DePaul. Our peer coaches understand the ups and downs of being a transfer student and are ready to help you make the most of your time as a Blue Demon! Students who are part of the Transfer Success Network will also have access to specialized resources and programs geared towards transfer student specific concerns.

Your Peer Support Coach can help with: 

  • Advice and guidance on navigating DePaul's campus and resources.
  • Opportunities to connect with other transfer students and the wider DePaul community.
  • Learn about joining student clubs and organizations.
  • Resources and support to help you meet your specific goals.
  • Tips on how to survive and thrive in the quarter system.
  • Any other questions you might have or things you’ve been wondering about!

What you can expect:

  • A welcome phone call from your peer coach within the first week of being matched.
  • Frequent communications from your peer coach about important dates, resources, and student events and activities.
  • Meetings with your peer coach: this is a good opportunity to talk about how things are going, ask questions, or get advice.
  • Transfer Student Socials and networking events.
  • Access to success coaching for transfer students.
  • Your peer coach will be matched with you for the whole academic year.

Tips for meeting with your Peer Support Coach: 

  • Set up a time to meet with them. We recommend meeting at least twice a quarter with your peer coach, but you can meet more often as needed. Peer coaches can meet with you at either campus, over the phone, or on Zoom.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your peer coach understands the transfer experience, and they know what it is like to be new to DePaul (many are transfer students themselves). They can answer most questions that you might have and even if they don't know the answer, they can help you find it. No question is too small or too silly.
  • You do not have to have questions when you meet with your Peer Support Coach. If you don't have any specific questions for your peer coach, no worries! They are still a great person to get to know and love to hear just about how the quarter is going for you—the ups and the downs. 
  • Network! The peer coaches are well connected in the DePaul community and can help you navigate resources, student groups, and things to do in Chicago. They can connect you with career resources if you’re already thinking about that post-graduate job search.

Frequently Asked Questions

New transfer students who are enrolled in classes will receive an email invitation via their DePaul email a few weeks before the quarter starts. The email invitation will include a link to an intake form which will help us match you with a peer coach. You’ll get to review the peer coach profiles and choose a few preferences for who you’d like to connect with. Once the intake form has been completed, matching typically takes place within one to two weeks. Your peer coach will let you know about specific resources and transfer student events throughout the year. If you did not receive an email with an invitation to join the program, email us at transfer@depaul.edu to inquire.

Peer coaches can help you delve deeper into an academic interest, career field, or activity that you already excel at, whether it's finding an internship, succeeding in classes, or being elected to a leadership role. Having a peer coach also increases your networking opportunities and opens you up to a new group of people you might not have met on your own. 

  • Take advantage of the resources and events! 
  • Think about what goals you have for your time at DePaul and communicate those clearly to your peer coach. They can help you develop action steps and stay on track. 
  • Learn about your peer coach’s background and ask about the connections and experiences that are most interesting to you. 
  • Think about what your interests are and how you’d like to be involved on campus—your peer coach can help you get connected with student groups, clubs, and events. 
  • Need help making a plan to get through the quarter? Ask your peer coach for help—they can offer tips for navigating the quarter system, staying organized, academic strategies, and what the best resources are. 
  • Your peer coach is not an academic advisor or a mental health counselor. If your questions need to be answered by a professional staff person, your peer coach can help you get connected to those resources. 

Peer coaches can meet with you in-person at both campuses, over the phone, or on Zoom. 

This happens sometimes. We do our best to match you with a peer coach that we think will be a good fit for you and based on your preferences that you shared in the intake form, but sometimes it just doesn't quite click. Feel free to reach out to transfer@depaul.edu and let us know that you'd like to be matched with a different peer coach. 

If you have been at DePaul for at least 2 quarters, keep an eye on the Campus Job Board for postings. We typically hire Peer Support Coaches at the start of Spring Quarter to be part of the team for the following academic year. If you have more questions about the requirements or timeline, please contact transfer@depaul.edu.

Events

The Transfer Success Network offers events from time to time just for transfer students like you! Our DeHUB page has information about upcoming events and activities. Some event highlights include: 

  • Transfer Student Socials: These are themed events with a chance to connect with other transfer students and peer coaches.
  • Special celebrations during National Transfer Student Week in October. 
  • Access to ACE group success coaching events.

Drop-In Coaching is available! 

Feel free to stop by anytime between 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and talk with one of our Peer Support Coaches. 

  • Loop location: Academic Continuity & Engagement 
    • DePaul Center, 1 E. Jackson Boulevard, Suite 9700
  • Lincoln location: Office of Multicultural Student Success
    • Student Center, 2250 N. Sheffield Avenue, Suite 105

Additional assistance

If you are a transfer student matched with a peer coach, start by asking them any questions you have. If you need additional assistance or don’t have a peer coach, email us at transfer@depaul.edu.

Meet the Peer Support Coaches

Penny Penny
Penny

Pronouns: she/her

College: Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (LAS)

Bio:

Penny transferred to DePaul from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and is a senior studying Anthropology with a minor in History of Art and Architecture. Her favorite activities include playing flute and saxophone, cooking and baking, and learning crafts. She enjoys Chicago’s parks and gardens, especially Garfield Park Conservatory. On campus, Penny plays in the DePaul Wind Symphony, the Pep Band, and is a member of the Anthropology Club. Her favorite things about DePaul are the amazing people she’s met and the personal and professional connections she’s made.  ​

Mentoring Motivation:
I want to help others navigate the struggles of transferring that I once had. I hope that I can help you find success at DePaul by sharing my experiences and offering insight that I have gained throughout my transfer experience.​
Luis Luis
Luis

Pronouns: he/him

College: Business (BUS)

Bio:

Luis transferred to DePaul from Harold Washington College and is now a graduate student pursuing an MS in Accounting (Audit and Advisory Services.) In his spare time, he enjoys watching sports (especially soccer) and going on walks around the city. His favorite thing about Chicago is the food, and getting to try the variety of different cuisines available in the city. On campus, Luis was a part of Beta Alpha Psi and the DePaul Accounting Club, and thinks the best part about DePaul is the strong sense of community.

Mentoring Motivation:

I became a Peer Support Coach to provide guidance and help students navigate college life. I hope to create a welcoming and supportive space where you feel comfortable asking questions, sharing challenges, and celebrating your progress.​

Isa Isa
Isa

Pronouns: she/her

College: Theatre (THEA)

Bio:

Isa transferred to DePaul from McHenry County College and is a senior studying Theatre Arts with a minor in Intercultural Communication. In her free time, she enjoys running along the lakefront, going to different coffee shops, and walking around the Art Institute. Additionally, as a theatre person, she loves seeing as many shows as possible! On campus, Isa is involved in Blue Demon Theatre, Speech & Debate Society, and Study Abroad and has worked as a campus tour guide and Chicago Quarter Mentor. She appreciates that DePaul offers so many free resources for students to utilize.  
Mentoring Motivation:

I became a Peer Support Coach to assist students that have been in the position I once was. I find so much joy in hearing others’ stories and love helping peers make their transition to DePaul as smooth as possible. I hope I can help you find community here and that you feel comfortable asking for any support you may need!​

Arham Arham
Arham

Pronouns: he/him

College: Computing and Digital Media (CDM)

Bio:
Arham transferred to DePaul from Harper College and is now a graduate student pursuing an MS in Data Science. Some of his favorite activities include going to the gym, playing soccer or basketball with friends, trying out new restaurants and cuisines, and going to the beach in the summer. His favorite thing about Chicago is the lake. At DePaul, Arham is part of the Actuarial Science Club, the Data Science Group, DePaul United Muslims Moving Ahead (UMMA), and DePaul Intramural Soccer. What he appreciates most about DePaul are the people he’s met here. ​​
Mentoring Motivation:
As someone who’s gone through the experience of transferring schools and adjusting to life at DePaul, I want to help make students’ transitions as smooth and rewarding as possible. Whether you need advice on academics, tips on navigating campus life, or just someone to share your thoughts with, I’m here!​
Angela Angela
Angela

Pronouns: she/her

College: Business (BUS)

Bio:
Angela transferred to DePaul from Benedictine University and is a senior studying Finance and Economic Data Analytics. In her spare time, she enjoys listening to music, reading, writing poetry, and exploring new cafes and restaurants with friends. Her favorite thing about Chicago is its incredible blend of diverse cultures. At DePaul, she’s been involved in several clubs and organizations, including Women in Business, Females in Finance, the Economics Club, Model UN, and The Consulting Group. She is also the founder of CLEO (Cultivating Leadership and Economic Opportunities) which supports women in non-finance majors who are exploring careers in Finance. What she appreciates most about DePaul is the amount of both academic and professional resources available to students.  ​
Mentoring Motivation:
As a former transfer student, I know firsthand how overwhelming yet exciting the transition to a new university can be. I want to help other transfer students find their footing at DePaul and support you in defining your goals, building confidence, and making the most of your time here.​
Chris Chris
Chris

Pronouns: he/him

College: Computing and Digital Media (CDM)

Bio:
Chris transferred to DePaul from City Colleges of Chicago and is a senior studying Math and Computer Science with a minor in Data Science. In his free time he enjoys cooking, going on runs along the lakefront, and trying out the many different varieties of food that can be found in the city. Chris is actively involved on campus as the Vice President of First Gen DePaul. He appreciates that the DePaul community is very welcoming to newcomers from all walks of life.
Mentoring Motivation:
I wanted to become a Peer Support Coach because I know how challenging, lonely, and stressful it can be to navigate college on your own. I hope that we can work towards a goal and achieve it together, whether it be securing an internship, finding your community, or anything related to personal development!​
Hamilton Hamilton
Hamilton

Pronouns: he/him

College: Computing and Digital Media (CDM)

Bio:
Hamilton is a Graduate Student pursuing a Masters in Animation for Film & Television. He enjoys many activities in his spare time, including exercising, storytelling, digital art, video games, planning group hangouts, and traveling. His favorite things about Chicago are the familiarity and navigability of the city. At DePaul, he is a Graduate Ambassador and member of the Black Student Union. His favorite aspects of DePaul are its Animation and Film programs, going to games and social events on campus, and meeting new people. ​
Mentoring Motivation:
I am excited that you chose DePaul! As an out-of-state student, I can fully understand potentially feeling anxious about adapting to a brand new environment. That experience, and my previous experience working as an RA, can help me to guide you into feeling more comfortable at DePaul. With 7 years under my belt, I can honestly say that DePaul is an amazing experience, and I wish you the best as you progress!​
Maddie Maddie
Maddie

Pronouns: she/her

College: College of Communication (COMM)

Bio:
Maddie transferred to DePaul from the University of Maryland, College Park, and is a junior studying Communications with a minor in PR & Advertising. She enjoys biking, cooking, seeing local live music, and talking about her favorite TV shows, video games, and niche YouTube channels. Her favorite things about Chicago are the lake, trees, and gorgeous architecture. On campus, Maddie is part of the DePaul Urban Gardeners club (DUG), enjoys events put on by the LGBTQIA+ Center, and has plans to join the DePaul Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) this year. What she appreciates most about DePaul is the variety of clubs, proximity to everything, and diverse student population. ​
Mentoring Motivation:
I became a Peer Support Coach to help other students through their periods of transition and find their communities! I would love to help you find your footing and feel in control of the things that matter to you, whether that’s school, friendships, work, or whatever else is on your mind!​
Tosin Tosin
Tosin

Pronouns: she/her

College: Computing and Digital Media (CDM)

Bio:
Tosin transferred to DePaul from Harry S. Truman Community College and is now a graduate student pursuing an MS in Information Systems. Her favorite activities include cooking, baking, trying new food/restaurants, listening to good music, going to concerts, attending networking events and conferences, and exploring Chicago, which she loves for its cultural diversity. At DePaul, Tosin is involved in the Black Student Union, Sankofa Black Student Formation, the Vincentian Service Day Team, and the Black Cultural Center. What she appreciates most about DePaul is the world-class education it provides as well as the great community and amazing people she’s met here.​
Mentoring Motivation:
I became a Peer Support Coach to help guide other students to make the most of their time at DePaul. I hope to share insights from my own DePaul journey, help you navigate college life, and essentially help you find or build your own community.​
Tireni Tireni
Tireni

Pronouns: she/her

College: Business (BUS)

Bio:
Tireni is a senior studying Accounting and Business Analytics. In her free time she enjoys shopping, cooking, trying new restaurants, and playing tennis. One of her favorite things about Chicago is the variety of great restaurants. On campus, Tireni is a member of Delta Zeta, the African Student Association, and the National Association of Black Accountants. One of the aspects of DePaul that she appreciates the most is its diverse community. 
Mentoring Motivation:
I’m someone who’s always been driven to help others. My goal is to be someone you can talk to, ask questions of, and share your goals with. I’m here to help you adjust, grow, and make the most of your time in college. I hope to help you feel supported and find success at DePaul!​


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