Dr. Alexis Takagi on Building Better Pathways for Transfer Students

Publication: Inside Higher Ed
Authors: Dr. Alexis Takagi, Research Analyst, Campaign for College Opportunity, and Vivian Zangari, Student Engagement Specialist, Penn State University Park

Drawing on their own experiences as transfer students, Campaign Research Analyst Dr. Alexis Takagi and co-author Vivian Zangari explore how colleges can create stronger, more student-centered transfer pathways. They argue that transfer success should not depend on students navigating complex requirements on their own or simply finding the right person to help. Instead, institutions should provide proactive guidance, intentionally foster belonging, strengthen coordination across colleges, and incorporate transfer students’ lived experiences into the design of policies and supports.