#NationalTransferStudentWeek
October 20-24, 2025
Transfer Student Spotlight | Emmy Mallick and Takota Lee
Q: How did you decide to attend the University of Utah?
A: I never initially considered the U the first time I was applying to schools, but after just a few months at my first school, I knew I needed to leave. I needed to go somewhere bigger. Somewhere with more community. Somewhere that I could represent with pride even after I graduate. The University of Utah offered me all these things and much more.
Q: What advice would you share with other students thinking of transferring?
A: The best advice I can give you is 'the grass is greener where you water it.' No matter where you go to school or what physical changes you make to your life, you still need to work to make a difference for yourself. Transferring is the first step, but doing everything you can to find fulfillment at your new school is what really matters. Do everything. Involve yourself in ways that make you uncomfortable. Step out of the box you've made for yourself and grow in every way possible. That is how you will get the best out of your transfer experience.
Q: What was surprising about campus life or classes here at the U?
A: Something that surprised me since moving here is how friendly people are! You can smile at anyone on campus and surely get a smile back. Starting a conversation in class will undoubtedly result in a new friend. There are many opportunities to meet people and make new friends in ways I never imagined.
Q: Are there any specific transfer-friendly spaces, programs, or events you would recommend?
A: I would 100% recommend rushing a sorority or fraternity. I was originally nervous about rushing a year after everyone else, but I found the most amazing girls I wouldn't trade for anything. The active members were so welcoming and excited to meet everyone, no matter what year I was. I have never regretted rushing, and I can't imagine my experience here without Pi Beta Phi.
Q: How has your transfer experience shaped your future goals?
A: Transferring has changed my goals completely! I have learned so much about myself that I never would have at my old school. I no longer feel like a big fish in a little pond and now feel like I am the most well-rounded version of myself. I never saw myself taking up a minor in health, but since being in Utah, I have been so inspired and excited to learn more about nutrition and how it affects the body. It also opened my eyes to where I want to live in the future and broadened so many horizons.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in your remaining time at the U?
A: I am most looking forward to continuing to say yes to everything! I know what it's like to feel trapped somewhere you don't belong, so now I do everything I can to enjoy every experience, including going snowboarding with my friends, attending every chapter and Pi Phi event, trying new philanthropy work, studying at different coffee shops, painting Utah banners with my roommates to hang outside our house before every game day, or even just going on a walk outside with a 360 mountain view around me.
Q: How did you decide to attend the University of Utah?
A: I chose the University of Utah because it has always been a staple university for me. I grew up in Utah and was always a fan of the Utes. I decided to transfer because the U of U offered me so many networking opportunities and experiences I would never trade in a million years.
Q: What advice would you share with other students thinking of transferring?
A: Just do it. You never know what opportunities will come your way if you don't.
Q: What excites you about your major?
A: How flexible it is and how creative I can be.
Q: What strategies or resources have helped you be successful here at the University of Utah?
A: The U Career Success Center and Transfer Success.
Q: Are there any specific transfer-friendly spaces, programs, or events you would recommend?
A: All the different student organizations and clubs on campus.
Q: How has your transfer experience shaped your future goals?
A: It helps my future goals because I would never have gotten my internships and experience if I hadn't transferred.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in your remaining time at the U?
A: Meeting different people and making valuable connections throughout my time.