Audrey Gilbert, of Blue Ridge, is one of ten students who earned a $500 transfer scholarship to University of North Georgia (UNG) when she began taking classes on the Dahlonega campus this Fall semester 2021.
UNG established the scholarship for newly enrolled transfer students starting this semester. The scholarships “were awarded based on a student’s exemplary academics and co-curricular involvement,” which included submitting a resume with a cover letter, writing an essay, and having a 3.0 GPA or better.
“The transfer students help to enhance the classrooms and majors at UNG because they bring unique experiences,” said Dr. Darcy Hayes, Director of Nighthawk Engagement and Student Transitions.
Gilbert had been attending college at University of West Georgia in Carrollton, Georgia, when she decided to transfer to UNG because many of her friends who are also attending UNG told her that “the professors really cared and invested their time into students. That was a big determining factor as to picking what school to transfer to,” Gilbert said.
Gilbert, who is an identical twin, moved to Blue Ridge to live with her aunt to be able to attend classes two days a week, and she also works in downtown Blue Ridge at Masseria and Harvest on Main.
Gilbert said, “I was going to go to medical school, but ever since I transferred, I just had a bunch of people kind of influenced me on my decision to change my major to Kinesiology.”
Even though it is difficult to be away from her twin and family, Gilbert said, “Don’t be scared to take that leap of faith. I know that was a big obstacle I had to get over because I was moving away from all my friends, all my family, but it’s definitely worth it in the long run when you just trust your gut.”
Dr. James Conneely, Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management said, “Transfer students are an integral part of the UNG community. We are committed to making sure we meet their needs.”
The University of North Georgia is a University System of Georgia leadership institution and is the Military College of Georgia. With more than 20,000 students, UNG is one of the state’s largest public universities.