Christina Springer is a
third-year Political Science transfer student from the beautiful beachside city
of Ventura, California. As the President of the Tau Sigma National Honor
Society for Transfer Students, Christina advocates for the recognition of academic
excellence within the transfer community. She is pursuing both College and
Departmental Honors and is seriously involved in cross-departmental research on
political engagement and social mobilization, both interests she developed
during her experiences in campaign work, voter registration, and social
activism both on and off the UCLA campus.
“As a transfer student, my
path was never set in stone. But I fell in love with UCLA when I spontaneously
decided to take a campus tour two years ago. I happened to walk inside SAC and was
blown away by all of the opportunities just plastered on the walls.
I
have been lucky to find a lot of research opportunities while here at UCLA
through 191 seminar classes, which I highly recommend! These classes are the
best way to get involved in research as a transfer because you don't need to
establish a prior relationship with a professor before you enroll; you just sign
up and see where it takes you. These professors are at the top of their fields
and are almost always willing to continue mentoring you through research (and
life).
My
best theoretical advice for transfers is to dream big when deciding how you
want to use your time at UCLA. Remember that you are here not only for a BA,
but that you should use the opportunities and resources available to you to
tailor your resume and make you a perfect candidate for your future career.
Make a plan early on to include challenging academics, leadership in a group,
and relevant work experience, then stick with it. Don't be afraid to adapt your
plan, but never write yourself off as being unable to accomplish something.
UCLA is competitive but YOU are a Bruin!”