Transfer Talk Podcast
Learn fun and new, upcoming information about transfer opportunities for Westmoreland
County Community College Students, hosted by Maria Loffredo!
- What is the process and what should you consider before transferring?
- Learn about common mistakes made during the transfer process and how to avoid them
- Get tips and tricks for Westmoreland students.
Explore Episodes:
Learn more about what it means to be a transfer student. Who can you go to for assistance? What is the process and what should you consider before transferring? Featuring co-host Jesse Somers, TRIO Counselor.
Episode 2 - Choosing the Right University for YOU
Maria is joined by Lori Roles, Assistant Director of Admissions and Coordinator of Transfer Outreach at IUP. They discuss the factors to consider when selecting a transfer institution. Location, size, academic programs, campus life and cost are all discussed. They also touch on resources you can tap into to help you narrow down your search and what resources to connect with for guidance.
Episode 3 - Understanding Articulation Agreements & Transfer Credits
Maria is joined by a special co-host, Melissa Sobeck, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Transfer from Penn West California. Maria and Melissa explain what an articulation agreement is and how it can help students, as well as discuss the importance of understanding how credits transfer and the criteria you need to consider when choosing your course work.
Episode 4 - Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Learn more about common mistakes students make during the transfer process and how to avoid them. Maria welcomes co-host Robert Lagnese, Director of Transfer at Slippery Rock University. Robert has over 26 years of experience in the transfer field and discusses transfer challenges, common mistakes in planning, the importance of advising, campus visits and campus culture.
Maria is joined by Paige Mascilli, a 2023 Westmoreland graduate who successfully transferred to IUP. Paige shares her educational journey and how choosing Westmoreland put her on a path to completing a Master's degree in only 4 years. Learn more about Paige's transfer success and gain sound advice for planning your transfer.
Episode 6 - What to Know Before You Go
Join Maria and Jesse as they dive a little deeper into what you should know before you transfer. They discuss understanding application deadlines and fees, the importance of OFFICIAL transcripts, navigating orientation and financial aid, as well as other important topics. Featuring co-host Jesse Somers, TRIO Counselor.
Episode 7 - Beyond the Classroom: Internships, Careers & the Transfer Advantage
In this episode, co-hosts Maria and Jesse are joined by staff from the Career Connections Center to explore how transferring impacts your long-term career goals. Together, they break down strategies for leveraging your community college experience on resumes, timing your career prep, and navigating internship opportunities during your transition. Tune in to discover actionable networking tips and learn how to make the most of career services at both your current and future institutions.
Episode 8 - Money Matters: Minimizing Debt & Maximizing Aid
This episode breaks down financial aid, scholarships and ways to minimize debt. Co-hosts Maria and Jesse are joined by Financial Aid Coordinator Tiffany George to guide Westmoreland County Community College students through the transfer funding process. Together, they unpack critical FAFSA deadlines, targeted transfer scholarships, hidden costs, and strategies for decoding financial aid award letters. Tune in for practical advice on maximizing your aid, transferring credits seamlessly, and graduating with minimal student debt.
Episode 9 - Getting Involved: Finding Your Place on Campus
Ready to turn a new campus into your community? Guest Rob Velella joins us to share actionable advice for transfer students on joining clubs, stepping into leadership roles, making genuine connections and balancing it all without burnout. Listen now and start building your place on campus!
Episode 10 - From Transfer to Graduation: Staying on Track
Transferring to a four-year university is a huge milestone, but how do you make sure you cross the finish line and stay on track? In this episode, host Maria (Transfer Counselor) and co-host Jesse (TRIO Counselor) break down everything you need to know to stay on track for graduation. From mapping out your remaining semesters and avoiding excess credits to meeting degree requirements and keeping your momentum high through the final stretch, we've got you covered.