Q&A with transfer student, Spencer Evett

Hometown: Arlington, MA

High school: Milton Academy

Major: Psychology

Activities: Theater, a cappella, improv comedy

Why did you decide to transfer to Skidmore?
I was looking for a college that wasn’t too small or too big, had structure academically but still allowed for freedom, and had abundant opportunities in the performing arts. Skidmore checked all these boxes, and offered me a generous financial aid package that made it affordable for me. So, it was a no-brainer for me to apply and then enroll as a transfer student.

What does Skidmore offer you that your previous college did not?
Here, the number of opportunities to participate in activities I’m interested in increased exponentially. For example, a cappella and improv—some of my favorite parts of college—were not available to me before coming to Skidmore. The size of the school is perfect. I actually came from a much smaller school, and at Skidmore there is just more going on since there are more students. There is a general sense of energy and excitement, without feeling overwhelming. I always see people I know, but also meet new people. The sheer number of opportunities offered, without being too large, is what makes Skidmore perfect for me.

What advice do you have for others considering transferring to Skidmore?
Transferring is not easy. Going through the college process all over again is tough, and you want to make sure you’re going to a place that’s really right for you. But if you’re considering Skidmore, just know that your transition to a new place will be made as smooth as possible. When I arrived at Skidmore, I took part in a preorientation program made up of entirely transfer students. We bonded over the shared experience of transferring, and it was incredibly comforting to know that I was not alone in this transition. We also got to know some upperclass students who had transferred in previous years. This program made the social transition—arguably the hardest part of transferring—pretty easy, and I felt like I had a strong social base going into my first semester. So, I would definitely suggest doing a preorientation program!

Are you glad you transferred? Why? Why not?
Transferring was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Skidmore feels like a second home to me. I get to pursue all of my interests alongside passionate, supportive, talented people. I am challenged while feeling comfortable and safe. I couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else! The one tough part was leaving behind the friends I had made at my previous school. But I needed to make the right choice for myself, and I haven't regretted it once.

What are your future hopes/plans?
I am hoping to pursue acting after I graduate. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after college for my first couple years, so I pursued a variety of interests like psychology, singing, comedy, and more. But the acting opportunities I’ve gotten at

Skidmore have made it clear to me that it's the thing I most want to continue pursuing. I am so grateful that Skidmore has such a high caliber of theater productions, and that my professors have been so generous in helping me pursue my goals and get better at doing what I love.