Transfer students during COVID-19: Why they chose Binghamton

This year, students from more than 600 schools — both two- and four-year institutions — from across the country applied to transfer to Binghamton University.

Hannah Gill, a junior mechanical engineering major, transferred to Binghamton in fall 2020 from Clemson University.

As a Long Island native, Gill felt far away from home while living in South Carolina. Although concerned about making friends as she transferred during a global pandemic, the tight-knit community of students at Binghamton University welcomed her with open arms. After joining Binghamton’s Math Club, Robotics Club and Chess Team, Gill was able to make many friends with similar interests, which was something she had struggled with before transferring to Binghamton.

“I joined these clubs when I first came to Binghamton to get involved,” she said. “Despite meetings being virtual, they have been a great way to meet people in my major. I’m excited for them to be in person next semester.”

Gill’s favorite Binghamton memory thus far has been the game nights she’s had with her roommates, which have allowed her to bond with them during this difficult year.

“With the way that everything’s worked out, I really couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else. Especially because of the people that I’ve met, it’s been a really amazing experience being at Binghamton,” she said.

Madison Grahm, a junior majoring in English, transferred to Binghamton last fall from Baruch College. And, although this was her second college transfer, Grahm has finally found her home.

“I originally transferred out of a university in the Midwest because of the location and out-of-state tuition costs,” she said. “I heard Binghamton University had a very good reputation and received a financial aid package that made me realize it was the best option for me.”

Grahm has already gotten involved with Pipe Dream, Binghamton’s student-run newspaper, and hopes to join more literary and film clubs next semester, since she is minoring in film studies. She has loved the encouraging environment at Binghamton, and feels surrounded by great academic and extracurricular opportunities. Grahm has also made meaningful connections with her professors despite the struggles of remote learning, and is inspired by how passionate instructors are at Binghamton.

“My favorite part of being a student at Binghamton is knowing that all of my professors and peers are very dedicated,” she said. “Binghamton University is such a genuine school, and I love that I’m surrounded by students who are also passionate in their studies.”

Madison Grahm’s twin sister, Samantha Grahm, is majoring in business administration and also transferred from Baruch College this past fall. From Manhattan, Samantha Grahm was eager for a college experience further from home that was still financially suitable, and Binghamton was the perfect option for her. Despite learning remotely, she has made a lot of friends, and was even able to get involved with Binghamton’s Business Fashion Society.

Through constant outreach from the Transfer Student Services Office, the School of Management and the College-in-the-Woods residential community, Samantha Grahm has always felt connected to the campus community, though it has been a big challenge for many during this past year of remote learning:

“Something I found really special about Binghamton University was the fact that I transferred during the COVID-19 pandemic and, despite the challenges of virtual learning and not knowing anybody at Binghamton, the environment was super welcoming,” she said. “I really appreciated the inclusivity of students at Binghamton, which made this year really special.”