Alicia Jackson found HFC a great foundation for transferring

National Transfer Student Week is observed October 19-23 this year. Organized by the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students, this annual, nationwide movement celebrates transfer students and those who support their success. This celebration is intended to empower campuses across the country to create more welcoming spaces for transfer students to thrive.

HFC alumna Alicia Jackson appreciated the many great resources HFC provided to help her prepare to transfer to the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

"During the COVID-19 pandemic, I faced some unexpected academic setbacks, and managing everything became quite difficult. When I regrouped and was ready to return to academics, I enrolled at HFC," said Jackson, of Westland. "I really appreciated the small class sizes and the wonderful closeness of the student organizations at HFC. I'm so grateful for my professors, mentors, and all the lifelong friendships I've made along the way. They have truly prepared me for success today!"

She continued: "HFC helped get me ready for U-M through their wonderful transfer student events and workshops. They were so helpful, getting me ready for the application process. I really appreciated having so many opportunities to explore different colleges and programs, while building essential skills such as public speaking, time management, and networking."

Today, Jackson is attending graduate school at Wayne State University and is the founder of DIME Above the Line, a social innovation venture focused on bridging the resource gap between the City of Westland's financial resources and small businesses. Jackson founded DIME using the $7,000 she won after completing the optiMize Social Innovation Challenge Fellowship.

"We are building partnerships to help mid-sized cities like Westland connect social impact entrepreneurs with vital resources," she said. "I'm exploring how connecting mid-sized cities in need of economic revitalization with public university talent and resources can build a wonderful pipeline for business growth and revenue."

Goal is working in economic development and building a stronger workforce

Jackson was born in Garden City and raised in Westland. She is a graduate of Wayne Memorial High School. She earned her associate degree in political science at HFC. Transferring to U-M, she earned her bachelor’s degree in political science. She also completed undergraduate coursework at Eastern Michigan University. She is now working on her master’s degree in public administration with a focus on financial management at Wayne State.

"The program at Wayne State has been amazing! The cohort is a wonderful size, and I've already connected with some great people. Our program director has been supportive, and I really appreciate the fantastic career readiness resources, including the workshops, assessments, and job opportunities," explained Jackson. "Alongside my current work as a financial advisor at a credit union, I'm looking forward to getting DIME off the ground. Whether that grows into a partnership with Wayne State, the City of Westland, or continues independently, I'm eager to see where it leads! My goal is to work in economic development to help cities reach their financial goals, attract new businesses, and build a stronger workforce with access to livable wages. Plus, I would love to inspire young people to be strategic with their money. It feels great to bridge my passions for economic development and family financial consulting."

Bowers Focus Group a high point of her HFC experience

One of the highlights of Jackson's time at HFC was joining the Dr. Henry J. Bowers Focus Group, a student organization dedicated to challenging deficit narratives and celebrating the global Black experience, equity, and academic leadership. Operating from a position of collective strength, the Bowers Focus Group provides support, networking, and mentorship for students of all backgrounds to navigate higher education successfully.

HFC sociology instructor Dr. Kalvin DaRonne Harvell is the faculty advisor of the Bowers Focus Group. Harvell and co-faculty advisor Chardin Claybourne are two of Jackson’s mentors.

"They truly believed in me and made me feel so at home, giving me a safe space to share my thoughts while helping me navigate my transfer to U-M," she said. "Thanks to their support, I was able to connect with wonderful resources like optiMize. I am so grateful for everything they've done!"

Through the Bowers Focus Group, Jackson toured U-M, which confirmed her decision to transfer there.

"Getting to see the campus in person was incredible!" she recalled. "I was also so grateful to connect with Justin Villanueva, my transfer ambassador who is also an HFC graduate. He helped me understand key deadlines and great courses to explore."

Her perspective on transferring

Jackson shared her advice about transferring.

"My best advice is to keep a close eye on your program's academic requirements!" said Jackson. "I encourage you to share your transfer goals early. It's so helpful to work with an advisor while also being your own advocate. Don't hesitate to ask questions and do your own research. You might just discover some wonderful courses or exciting opportunities at other schools along the way."

She continued: "Never doubt yourself or let anything hold you back from your dreams. You have the power within you to achieve great things, and you have to believe in yourself. There are so many wonderful opportunities – from building great connections and starting amazing careers to traveling, learning, and enjoying fun experiences. Life is too short to worry about being perfect, so take every chance you get to live life to the fullest. Time moves so quickly; before you know it, you'll be walking across the stage. Staying focused with a flexible plan will help you navigate whatever comes your way. Most importantly, trust your unique journey. You're not in a race, and you will achieve your goals in due time."

A meaningful part of her story

HFC is a vital part of Jackson’s identity.

"Starting at HFC will always be such a meaningful part of my story! It truly helped shape who I am today, and I am so grateful for the wonderful start it gave me on my transfer journey," she said. "Being a transfer student shows how open we are to change and how resilient we can be. We are talented and resourceful enough to make something out of nothing, and we bring a unique perspective to everything we do."

Jackson continued: "I really loved my time at HFC. My transfer student experience at HFC was a blessing and despite facing various educational and personal challenges along the way, I've kept my faith in God and continued pushing forward. Knowing that many in my family haven't had the chance to pursue higher education, I am deeply grateful for where I am today. I am so passionate about making a positive difference for my family and our community!"