Friday, July 10, 2020
Alyssa Lombardi '21, a biological sciences major and transfer student mentor at UNH Manchester

Alyssa Lombardi '21, a biological sciences major and transfer student mentor at UNH Manchester

Transfer students make up more than half of the student population at UNH Manchester, bringing a diversity of thought and experience to our college community. We know transferring to a new college isn’t easy, which is why we offer advising, events and resources specifically for transfer students.

Transfer Mentor Spotlights introduce you to our Mentor Ambassadors for Transfer Engagement (MATEs) , trained student leaders—and transfer students themselves—who help incoming transfers adjust to the academic, cultural and social climate of UNH Manchester. This weeks MATE is Alyssa Lombardi '21, a biological sciences major and American Sign Language & Deaf Studies minor who transferred from NHTI.

Why did you want to become a MATE?

I was interested in becoming a MATE because not only did I get some good advice from my MATE in the transfer seminar, but I learned a lot on my own during the transfer process. I am happy to be able to share the knowledge I’ve gained through experiences with incoming transfer students.

What advice do you have for new transfer students?

Take advantage of the resources that UNH Manchester provides! There are so many online and on-campus resources that will be covered in the transfer seminar such as tutoring in the library, the Career and Professional Success (CaPS) office, a page FULL of student discounts and many more.

What brought you to UNH Manchester?

Initially I looked at transferring to UNH Manchester because of how close it was to home, but when I got here, I realized it provided much more than a short commute. I love the size of the school and how helpful and friendly other students and faculty are. Since it is a smaller school, there are smaller class sizes and many more opportunities to connect with teachers.

Favorite UNH Manchester memory?

I’ve made so many memories at UNH Manchester, but my favorite has to be all of the presentations that were provided on campus. Whenever I attend them they are always so enjoyable and inspiring.

What’s your favorite class and why?

My favorite class has to be Cancer Biology (BSCI 750). I was lucky that it was offered in a spring where I had an open schedule because the class is very interesting, and Dr. Johnson does an incredible job teaching it.

What do you hope to be doing in 10 years? 

I hope to be working in a field relative to biology, although I am still undecided of my exact career path. I do know that I want to stay in New Hampshire where I’m surrounded by family and have LOTS of animals.

Tell us your favorite:

  • Manchester restaurant: The Gyro Spot (they give a student discount if you show your student ID)
  • New Hampshire destination: The Lakes Region and Squam Lakes Association
  • Vacation destination: Dominican Republic
  • Movie: "The Proposal"
  • Book: "The Demon in the Freezer"

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 

Anywhere in Europe.

As a child, what did you wish to become when you grew up?

A veterinarian.

We’d be surprised to know that…

I have a one-eyed cat (his name is Augustus).

If you could try anything and not fail, what dream would you attempt? 

Running a marathon.

If you could go on a road trip with anyone (from the past or present), who would you choose and where would you go? 

I would love to travel to a tropical area with all of my siblings and their immediate families! I have a large family but I love making memories with them.

 

CONSIDERING UNH MANCHESTER?
More than half of our students come from other institutions, so we offer scholarships, resources and academic counseling specific to transfer students. There's still time to apply for fall 2020 before classes begin August 31. LEARN MORE

Producer: 
Kassidy Taylor | Marketing & Communications, UNH Manchester | kassidy.taylor@unh.edu
According to a study by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, more than a third of college students transfer to another school. If you're in that mindset, here are some tips to help you navigate the transfer journey.