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Looking for the best universities to transfer to in Pennsylvania? At Alvernia University, community college transfer students are supported, empowered, and set up to thrive. Whether they're commuting from home, diving into community service, or stepping into leadership roles, Alvernia students like Chelsea, Jamal, and Cora show how a strong transfer experience can inspire personal growth and open doors to what’s next.
Building a Campus Home as a Commuter
Chelsea Burke ’25 started her college journey at Montgomery County Community College, then transferred to Alvernia to stay close to home while earning her associate degree. As a commuter, she quickly became part of the campus community, joining clubs like Friends of Animals and the Social Work Association, serving as a Peer Mentor, and becoming an Orientation Weekend Leader. These roles helped her feel fully connected, even without living on campus.
Now president of the Commuter Association, a group she helped found, Chelsea works to improve the experience of fellow commuters. “It’s important to give commuters a sense of home on campus and to be another voice in their corner,” she says.
A social work major, Chelsea interned with the Southeastern Veterans Center, offering support and advocacy for veterans. She credits Alvernia’s student-focused environment for helping her grow both personally and professionally.
Bringing the Learning to Life
For Jamal Dancy, the decision to transfer to Alvernia after completing his associate degree in criminal justice at Reading Area Community College was driven by a desire to make a difference. He enrolled in May 2022 and quickly got involved with the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development & Entrepreneurship, which empowers students to support local nonprofits and businesses in the Reading area.
As an O’Pake Fellow, Jamal developed business plans, helped organizations apply for nonprofit status, and even launched his own app initiative aimed at university clients. He also completed a practicum with a Berks County Magisterial District Justice, reinforcing his career goals in juvenile justice and law.
Jamal encourages other transfer students to embrace experiential learning and seek out faculty mentorship early. “Alvernia gave me a chance to serve my community and build a future I’m proud of,” he says.
From Community College to Capitol Hill
Cora Cox was just 16 when she transferred to Alvernia after taking courses at a local community college. Even at a young age, she found the transition smooth thanks to Alvernia’s supportive resources.
An active member of campus life, Cora is involved with the Society for Human Resource Management, the Lambda Sigma Lambda Honor Society, and will serve as a student leader for several organizations this academic year. An O’Pake Institute Fellow for Management, she’s learned experientially through entrepreneurship and consulting on business projects.
Among other learning experiences during her time at Alvernia, Cora went on an Alternative Break service trip to the Dominican Republic and completed an internship at the state capitol in Washington, D.C. Named as a 2024 Commencement speaker, Cora plans to continue her academic and athletic career in graduate school and NCAA field hockey at Liberty University.
Your New Home at Alvernia Awaits
From campus leadership to real-world impact, students like Chelsea, Jamal, and Cora show what’s possible when you choose a university that’s ready to invest in your future. For community college students in Pennsylvania ready to create their comeback, Alvernia University offers the best support, a welcoming environment, transfer-friendly pathways, and the tools to turn your goals into reality. Learn more or apply today!
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