Yesha Patel is a fourth-year biomedical science student who transferred from a college diploma to a degree program at York. She is also a transfer student success lead with the Atkinson Centre for Mature and Part-time Students (ACMAPS). We spoke with her about her transition, and how she is now making a difference for other transfer students at York.
What was it like transferring to York?
Patel says she chose York because there were pathways to transition from an advanced college diploma to a university degree. However, the experience was still nerve-wracking.
“It felt really overwhelming, especially as an international student,” she says. “You’re starting from scratch. Plus, I transferred in the middle of a semester, so everybody had friends, but I was new. But York had a bridging pathway where I could transfer from a biotechnology diploma to a biomedical science degree.”
What was the biggest barrier you faced as a transfer student, and how did you overcome it?
Patel says transferring credits felt confusing at first. However, after connecting with a transfer credit assessor, she was able to have her questions answered.
“She guided me through all of it, and she explained the entire process to me,” Patel says. “It was the summer of 2022, so she was not working on campus, and most of the conversations were via email, but she was really great at getting back to me, replying to any confusion. Any doubts that I had, she was always there.”
Have questions about transferring your credits to York? Email tsshub@yorku.ca.
Tell us about your Work/Study position as a transfer student success lead.
Patel’s position is new, as ACMAPS has expanded to offer support and resources for transfer students. “For the past eight months, we’ve researched what is needed for transfer students and have incorporated that into a resource guide,” she says. Patel also helps answer questions at the front desk of the ACMAPS office.
“I hope soon that people know that ACMAPS is a place where transfer students can go if they have questions or concerns!”
The ACMAPS office is located at 111 Central Square on the Keele Campus.
What transfer resource projects are you most proud of?
Patel says she is most proud of helping to develop the Transfer Student Resource Guide. “It’s like a one-stop shop for everything. Like I said before, when I first came to York, I didn’t know where to go; there are different places you have to go to for different concerns. But now everything is in the pamphlet: locations, websites, everything’s in there!”
Access York’s transfer student resource guide for more information.
How have you seen your work impact others?
“This position helped me realize that my own experiences matter,” says Patel. “They’re going to genuinely help someone else who's going through the same things I did. I feel like having these transfer resources is going to help students.”
Patel says she has also helped many prospective high school students through her role as a science student ambassador and with Global Leaders of York Science. “High school and university, they're two very different cases – everything changes. I’ve been able to share my experiences with the students and their parents and help them, too."
Do you have any advice for students transferring to York?
“I would say just don't feel overwhelmed,” says Patel. “I know that the campus is huge. You might feel like you're out of place. You might feel lost when you first come here. But if you put in effort, if you come out of your shell, if you try, there are so many resources at York to help you get through the process and settle into the university.”
Patel also encourages new students to explore York’s clubs and student services. “Every time you have a doubt, speak up. Talk to your professors. Go to academic advising. They're there to help you."
What should students know about ACMAPS?
Patel wants students at York to know that transfer students are welcome at ACMAPS. “We have transition coaches who help you settle into places. We have peer mentors who work for you, who can address your concerns and guide you to the right place. We have staff specifically there to help you with your transition. Come and talk to us, even if you're overwhelmed with your courses, even if it's as little as that, just come in!”