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I graduate in May, I have been waitlisted from my dream school and I have also gotten waitlisted from housing at my safety school, my plan C is going to a community college in Georgia and then transfer to Georgia tech, is it a good idea to go to community college as an engineering major or too risky? what extracurricular activities should I participate in order to secure my transfer at GA tech? #Spring25?
I would like to get to know more information about the REP transfer program for engineering majors in GA since i would like to be part of it, or also getting to know opinions about engineering transfer majors
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5 answers
Updated
Pam’s Answer
Building on the good advice already shared here, transferring from a community college to a university is a smart way to finish non-engineering class credits. These classes are usually done in the first two years of college.
Updated
Emilie’s Answer
Attending a community college in Georgia with the intention of transferring to Georgia Tech through the Regents' Engineering Pathway (REP) is a well-established and viable route for aspiring engineers. Many students have successfully utilized this pathway to achieve their academic goals.
🎓 What Is the Regents' Engineering Pathway (REP)?
The REP is a cooperative program between Georgia Tech and participating institutions within the University System of Georgia. Students begin their studies at a partner institution, completing foundational coursework in mathematics, science, and engineering. Upon successful completion of these courses and meeting specific GPA requirements, students can transfer to Georgia Tech to complete their Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree.
Participating institutions include:
Georgia State University – Perimeter College
Clayton State University
Georgia Highlands College
Gordon State College
Other University System of Georgia institutions
Clayton State University
University System of Georgia
This pathway allows students to start their education closer to home, potentially reducing costs and easing the transition to college life.
Georgia Tech Catalog
✅ Requirements for REP Transfer to Georgia Tech
To be eligible for transfer through the REP, students must:
Complete a minimum of 30 semester credit hours after high school graduation.
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 overall and in all math and science courses.
Earn a grade of "C" or better in all STEM courses.
📈 Is It Too Risky?
Transferring from a community college to Georgia Tech via the REP is a common and successful route for many students. Data indicates that students transferring from two-year colleges into the College of Engineering at Georgia Tech have higher retention and graduation rates, as well as fewer excess credits, compared to other transfer students.
irp.gatech.edu
However, it's important to note that transfer students may face challenges, such as higher rates of receiving lower grades in certain courses during their first year at Georgia Tech. Being prepared for the rigorous coursework and seeking support when needed can help mitigate these challenges.
irp.gatech.edu
🛠️ Recommended Extracurricular Activities
Engaging in extracurricular activities can strengthen your transfer application and prepare you for success at Georgia Tech:
Engineering or Robotics Clubs: Participate in or start clubs related to engineering or robotics at your community college.
Undergraduate Research: Seek opportunities to assist in research projects within the engineering department.
STEM Tutoring: Offer tutoring in math or science subjects, demonstrating mastery and leadership.
Community Service: Volunteer for STEM outreach programs or community service projects.
Internships: Pursue internships or part-time jobs related to engineering to gain practical experience.
These activities not only enhance your resume but also provide valuable experiences that can be discussed in your transfer application.
📅 Application Timeline for Spring 2025 Transfer
To transfer to Georgia Tech for the Spring 2025 semester:
Application Deadline: September 15, 2024
Course Completion: Ensure all required courses are completed by the end of the Fall 2024 semester.
Transcripts: Submit final high school transcripts and official college transcripts.
It's crucial to stay informed about any updates to application requirements or deadlines by regularly checking Georgia Tech's admissions website.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Choosing to begin your engineering education at a community college in Georgia with the intention of transferring to Georgia Tech through the REP is a strategic and achievable plan. By maintaining strong academic performance, engaging in relevant extracurricular activities, and staying informed about transfer requirements, you can position yourself for a successful transition to Georgia Tech's College of Engineering.
If you need assistance identifying participating REP institutions near you or have further questions about the transfer process, feel free to ask!
🎓 What Is the Regents' Engineering Pathway (REP)?
The REP is a cooperative program between Georgia Tech and participating institutions within the University System of Georgia. Students begin their studies at a partner institution, completing foundational coursework in mathematics, science, and engineering. Upon successful completion of these courses and meeting specific GPA requirements, students can transfer to Georgia Tech to complete their Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree.
Participating institutions include:
Georgia State University – Perimeter College
Clayton State University
Georgia Highlands College
Gordon State College
Other University System of Georgia institutions
Clayton State University
University System of Georgia
This pathway allows students to start their education closer to home, potentially reducing costs and easing the transition to college life.
Georgia Tech Catalog
✅ Requirements for REP Transfer to Georgia Tech
To be eligible for transfer through the REP, students must:
Complete a minimum of 30 semester credit hours after high school graduation.
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 overall and in all math and science courses.
Earn a grade of "C" or better in all STEM courses.
📈 Is It Too Risky?
Transferring from a community college to Georgia Tech via the REP is a common and successful route for many students. Data indicates that students transferring from two-year colleges into the College of Engineering at Georgia Tech have higher retention and graduation rates, as well as fewer excess credits, compared to other transfer students.
irp.gatech.edu
However, it's important to note that transfer students may face challenges, such as higher rates of receiving lower grades in certain courses during their first year at Georgia Tech. Being prepared for the rigorous coursework and seeking support when needed can help mitigate these challenges.
irp.gatech.edu
🛠️ Recommended Extracurricular Activities
Engaging in extracurricular activities can strengthen your transfer application and prepare you for success at Georgia Tech:
Engineering or Robotics Clubs: Participate in or start clubs related to engineering or robotics at your community college.
Undergraduate Research: Seek opportunities to assist in research projects within the engineering department.
STEM Tutoring: Offer tutoring in math or science subjects, demonstrating mastery and leadership.
Community Service: Volunteer for STEM outreach programs or community service projects.
Internships: Pursue internships or part-time jobs related to engineering to gain practical experience.
These activities not only enhance your resume but also provide valuable experiences that can be discussed in your transfer application.
📅 Application Timeline for Spring 2025 Transfer
To transfer to Georgia Tech for the Spring 2025 semester:
Application Deadline: September 15, 2024
Course Completion: Ensure all required courses are completed by the end of the Fall 2024 semester.
Transcripts: Submit final high school transcripts and official college transcripts.
It's crucial to stay informed about any updates to application requirements or deadlines by regularly checking Georgia Tech's admissions website.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Choosing to begin your engineering education at a community college in Georgia with the intention of transferring to Georgia Tech through the REP is a strategic and achievable plan. By maintaining strong academic performance, engaging in relevant extracurricular activities, and staying informed about transfer requirements, you can position yourself for a successful transition to Georgia Tech's College of Engineering.
If you need assistance identifying participating REP institutions near you or have further questions about the transfer process, feel free to ask!
Updated
Connor’s Answer
I completely agree that starting at a community college can be a smart and practical path for engineering majors who plan to transfer to Georgia Tech. Community colleges offer a cost-effective way to complete foundational coursework while allowing you to focus on maintaining a strong GPA and building a solid academic record. As long as you stay on top of Georgia Tech’s transfer requirements and take challenging STEM courses, you’ll be well prepared for the transition. To strengthen your application, I recommend getting involved in engineering-related clubs, participating in competitions, seeking out research or internship opportunities, and taking on leadership roles whenever possible. These experiences will not only demonstrate your commitment to engineering but also help you stand out as a transfer applicant. With careful planning and dedication, transferring from a community college to Georgia Tech is definitely achievable.
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Julissa,
You've already got a lot of great advice and I agree that a community college is a really good path to a university.
I want to add that, if you have a good high school councilor, you might want to check with them. My wife was a high school councilor for many years and if a motivated student of hers came in and told her they were rejected or waitlisted for their dream university, she would immediately begin working on getting them accepted. She would call and plead the student's case. She would write letters. Most of the time she was able to get the student an acceptance. Sometimes they were accepted beginning with the summer term, which is another option.
Hopefully you have a really good councilor who is willing to work on your behalf.
Also, talk to the university councilor to make sure you are on the right path. They are a valuable asset!
Best of luck!
You've already got a lot of great advice and I agree that a community college is a really good path to a university.
I want to add that, if you have a good high school councilor, you might want to check with them. My wife was a high school councilor for many years and if a motivated student of hers came in and told her they were rejected or waitlisted for their dream university, she would immediately begin working on getting them accepted. She would call and plead the student's case. She would write letters. Most of the time she was able to get the student an acceptance. Sometimes they were accepted beginning with the summer term, which is another option.
Hopefully you have a really good councilor who is willing to work on your behalf.
Also, talk to the university councilor to make sure you are on the right path. They are a valuable asset!
Best of luck!
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
First two years of school you're covering the basics like govt, English, etc. So going to a community college is a great way to get those basic courses out of the way at a cheaper price. Just make sure they transfer to your school and apply to your major. Some community colleges have honor programs that will even pay for your schooling but may be limiting in the type of classes/majors you can take. Still worth checking out. Talk with the school to find out what extra curriculars they may have available. Find current or recent students on LinkedIn and chat with them.