Student Survey Questions

In 2007, students enrolled in Freshmen writing courses at Connect community colleges were asked questions related to their identity as writers and potential transfer students. This data was presented at 2007’s 4C’s conference. Below is a sampling of some of the questions, and below that, some of the students’ responses:

Did you plan to transfer from the beginning of your college career? If you answered “no.” what made you change your mind?

What are your concerns/expectations about college writing after you transfer?

Do you feel that the standards of competency and the amount of writing expected at the community college have sufficiently prepared you for the four year experience?

You have established an identity as a community college student. In what ways, if any, do you think that identity might change when you transfer?

“There is a stigma (fair or not) about community college being a glorified high school. True or not, it will no longer be an issue for me.” John
“Going to a four year school, it will be a relief just to focus on school and not have to balance work with it.” Jason
“When I transfer, the professors might think that I’m a little behind because I am a transfer student, so my goal will be to show them otherwise.” Diego
“I have worked myself through school thus far and have become accustomed to being around people like me. I believe the social hierarchy will be much different at a more expensive school.” Stacy
“Schools have various methods of writing. Will my writing measure up to the students already seated in a four-year school? Can I keep up with the curriculum already in place?” Jacyln
“I believe many universities and colleges, no matter where you go, label you as a community college student, no matter what year or level you’re on. Sadly, sometimes that alters their decision to accept an individual into certain programs.” Victor
“When I came at Massasoit, I had difficulties in English because it was not my primary language, after taking several English courses, I realized that my writing skills had been improved, I feel comfortable transferring in any four-year college.” Ericka
“I am heavily involved in three separate clubs and in this school I stand out. When I transfer I’m afraid I’ll be just another person in the crowd and have to work harder to stand out there.” John
“I feel that my first semester in college and the semester I am in now have prepared me more in writing that high school ever did.” Elizabeth
“Right now I feel confident and organized in relation to the pace of Bristol Community College. When I venture out, I may become the opposite and have to readjust to the pace of their programs and structure.” Len
“I am unsure if I will be as well known as a student [after I transfer]. I also feel I may not be as involved with activities. But I hope more opportunities will come from [the 4 year] college.” Charles
“Community College has been, so far, an excellent opportunity for review and preparation. The coursework is serious without being overwhelming and all the professors emphasize the expectations of an even higher education in which class/professor relationships are not as personal.” Jeanine
“I’m an individual. I think out everything before I jump to conclusions. I’m also optimistic and creative. I’m very outgoing. I try hard at everything I do. I think that when I transfer I will be fine.” Alicia
“[Transferring] will be an experience and an adventure, refining and expanding my skills. I welcome the semester I am assigned a Master of Arts thesis.” Thomas