By Rodrigo Valverde/reporter

The goal of attending a four-year college is well within the grasp of all TCC students, according to speakers at the Transfer Academy on NE Campus Sept. 11.

“That can be achieved by anyone,” said NE English assistant professor Shewanda Riley.

She and other speakers described the essential steps required for students planning to transfer soon to a four-year university. The speakers also outlined ways to make the process as easy as possible.

“It’s time to get ready, get motivated and get started,” said Jennifer Blalock, an administrator with College Fish, a website that matches students with schools and $37 million in scholarships.

“Anything worthwhile in life takes some effort,” she said.

Speakers cited specific actions students should take to ensure the continuation of their education at four-year institutions. Those actions included tailoring an academic resume to a specific university, such as a student’s participation in extracurricular activities and listing a GPA.

Jared Landin from the NE Writing Center made several suggestions for students so their resumes would attract attention.

“Use action words that are specific to your strengths,” he said. “Write a statement of purpose. Avoid generic language. What they’re looking for is passion.”

NE student Thomas Rocha found the information on scholarship availability to be the most helpful.

“I wanted to see what my options were and get ahead on what’s required,” he said. “The conference was generally helpful to get an idea on what’s going on.”

NE student Priscilla Jimenez plans to transfer to Baylor University next fall.

“I wanted to get information on transferring,” she said. “It was helpful to me.”

Other speakers included admissions specialist Licretia Sibley and financial aid director Mary Lou Bledsoe who spoke about applications and transcripts, as well as financial aid.