Two transfer students and a sibling duo have embraced the journey from community college to university, highlighting the support systems available for those making the transition. Niki McCabe chose to attend Coconino Community College (CCC) after high school, where she learned about the CCC2NAU program designed to assist students transferring to Northern Arizona University (NAU).
Family Connections and Support
Niki’s brother, Koda McCabe, has a similar story, though his path involved a few more steps. After a year at Fort Lewis College, he moved to CCC before transferring to NAU. Koda noted that the CCC2NAU program was relatively new at the time of his transfer, which led to challenges in navigating the system. After leaving school for a decade, he returned and now serves as an adviser for the program, helping students like his sister make the transition smoother. “Things are very different now than they used to be,” Koda said.
According to Christina Bauer, manager at University Advising, CCC2NAU integrates advisors into CCC’s advising system, providing students with specialized knowledge about NAU degrees. This structure allows students to start their education at CCC with confidence about their transfer process.
Expanding the Community
Not all transfer students come from CCC. Oswaldo Gomez Zamora, who transferred from the Valley, is now pursuing a master’s degree in English with a focus on creative writing at NAU. He also works as an advisor for the Transfer Jacks Mentoring program, which aims to connect new students with mentors who can help them navigate college life.
The McCabe siblings and Gomez Zamora emphasized the importance of community for transfer students, who often come from diverse backgrounds. Koda, who graduated from NAU in 2024, provides his students with resources like a list of clubs and organizations to foster engagement. His sister Niki, who graduated last May with a degree in applied Indigenous studies, found her community through involvement in clubs and worked as a peer mentor in the Native American Success Center.
Building Belonging
Gomez Zamora shared that he initially approached his time at NAU with a focus on academics, but found that relying on a community enhanced his experience.
Bauer noted that some transfer students experience impostor syndrome, doubting whether they belong in a four-year institution. Programs like CCC2NAU aim to help these students recognize their potential and find their place in the academic environment.
Upcoming Celebration
National Transfer Student Week, taking place from Oct. 19-23, will celebrate transfer students and the staff who support them. NAU plans to host several events during this week to foster connections among transfer students.
Source: Northern Arizona University
