Q&A with transfer student, Jonah Marcus

Hometown: Sparta, NJ

High School: Morris Knolls High School

Major: Computer Science

Activities: Martial Arts Club, DJ Club

Why did you decide to transfer to Skidmore?
I was at a college where the student life did not suit me. I was looking for a place that had a wider variety of things to do on campus and that fostered an environment in which students actively participated in clubs and college events.

What does Skidmore offer you that your previous college did not?
I've never felt like Skidmore shortchanges one program relative to another. Though Skidmore is known in part for its strength in the arts, all of its programs are roughly equal in their high quality. The College clearly values all of its departments and their students' ability to get a well-rounded, interdisciplinary education. I've taken different electives in several different departments, and I've always felt like I was getting great instruction. Moreover, Saratoga Springs is a fantastic college town with lots to do, and Skidmore itself is only a short distance from the heart of downtown.

What advice do you have for others considering transferring to Skidmore?
If you're going to transfer, start the process as soon as possible. I waited until the last minute, and while I don't regret transferring, I would have saved myself a lot of stress if I had started earlier. Additionally, if you come here, get involved in clubs ASAP, even if you're only in one. I met my current friend-group at a Martial Arts Club meet, and my college experience wouldn't be the same without them. Skidmore has a ton of things to do, but you have to take the initiative to get involved. Showing up to club meetings is probably the easiest way to do that.

Are you glad you transferred?
Absolutely! I'm getting an excellent education, the student body here is very involved in clubs and events, Saratoga Springs is great, etc. Even though I wasn't happy at my old school, I felt like transferring to Skidmore was running towards something positive more than it was running away from something negative. That realization is what made me decide I wanted to transfer here.

What are your future hopes/plans?
I'm a computer science major, and after I graduate I would like to work in the cybersecurity field. I'm also a Japanese minor, so I'd like to spend some time in Japan, too.