From Hawaii to Pennsylvania: Transfer Student Miguel '29 Lands at Arcadia

When looking at where to attend college, Jahlia Miguel '29 made the decision to uproot her life and move halfway across the world from Maui, Hawaii, to Pennsylvania. After one year at Ursinus College, she transferred to Arcadia to study Biology.

"I was critically thinking about whether transferring to a different institution after my first year of college was the right decision for me," Miguel said. "I wanted to make sure that the new institution aligned with my academic goals and offered resources and opportunities I needed to be even more successful."

Miguel's search for a new university led her to a new home in Arcadia's close-knit community.

"I chose Arcadia because the campus felt very welcoming and inclusive," she explained. "I was especially drawn to the amount of diversity within the student community. The wide range of student engagement activities, clubs, and programs that Arcadia offers stood out to me because it showed that there is something for everyone on campus."

While she felt welcomed to Arcadia's campus, Miguel still had to learn how to adapt to life on the East Coast.

"Hawaii and Pennsylvania offer two completely different lifestyles, and in the beginning, the adjustment was challenging as I had to navigate through different lifestyles, people, and their cultures," she said. "Growing up on a small island with limited opportunities and then moving to a place that has endless opportunities and resources was a big change for me. The transition is very beneficial because it allows me to step out of my comfort zone, explore new opportunities, and spread my wings beyond the island lifestyle."

Miguel's hobbies include spending time outdoors with family and friends, traveling, and shopping. At Arcadia, she hopes to take part in a study abroad program, join clubs, and make new friends.

"I hope to take advantage of all the opportunities Arcadia provides while creating memories that will make my undergraduate experience a memorable one."