Transfer Student Calls Geneseo “the Community I’d Been Looking For”

Annabella Bushnell ’26 (SUNY Geneseo/Michaela Lewis-Hardies)

For an increasing number of transfer students, SUNY Geneseo has become not just a new college, but also a new home.

Annabella Bushnell ’26 from Troy, NY, was one such student, transferring to SUNY Geneseo in their sophomore year, looking for “a campus that truly felt like home.” They recognized that community was a vital part of the college experience that they deeply valued.

“Honestly, the photos of campus were what drew me to Geneseo at first,” Bushnell says. “But after looking into the academics, I knew that I could see myself here.”

At Geneseo, says Bushnell, “I was able to explore all the majors and minors and find something that felt right for me.” They transferred in as a psychology major, then switched to a communication major in their junior year. The late decision initially concerned them, but strong academic advisement made the difference. “The faculty members I met with made sure I could switch my major while still graduating on time,” Bushnell says.

Bushnell felt Geneseo was the right choice for them, even when adjusting to a new campus as a transfer presented some personal challenges. Coming in as a sophomore meant stepping into an environment where many students had already formed connections. “I was nervous I would feel a step behind those who arrived as freshmen,” they admitted. “But my fears went away pretty quickly because I had found the community I’d been looking for.”

Part of that community included other transfer students, some of whom Bushnell still considers close friends. “Being able to talk with another transfer student and share similar experiences made me feel a lot more connected to the community here at Geneseo.” Those connections made Bushnell feel more at home on campus, interested in talking to new people, and eager to join Geneseo’s student clubs. This past year, they served on the e-board of Geneseo’s Art Club.

“Make sure you get yourself out there early and engage with the community,” Bushnell advises. They feel that Geneseo made it easy for them to find where they belonged. The welcoming environment, they say, means anyone can feel at home. “You can find your people and make Geneseo into a place that feels right for you.”