Leon

Hey! My name is Leon, and I’m a junior transfer student from UC Santa Barbara to Vanderbilt University. While I appreciated the lively atmosphere of Isla Vista, I found myself seeking more academic rigor and opportunities that would align with my pre-med aspirations. That desire led me to transfer to Vanderbilt, where I’ve found both personal and academic fulfillment.

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At Vanderbilt, I’ve immersed myself within the campus and surrounding Nashville area. I volunteer at a local hospice center, work on an honors thesis in the biological sciences department, and help organize over 400 volunteers as part of Vanderbilt Student Volunteers for Science, where we bring science education to Nashville middle schools. Also, I’m a part of Vandy Remote Area Medical, traveling to rural Tennessee to help provide free healthcare to underserved populations. 

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Transferring to Vanderbilt has been one of the most impactful decisions I’ve made, allowing me to grow both academically and personally. While the transfer process initially felt overwhelming, with its many course requirements and limited transparency from schools, I navigated it by thoroughly researching and engaging with admissions offices. Now, as a senior, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative transferring can be. At University Hopper, I look forward to guiding you through your own transfer journey and help you take the next steps toward changing your academic experience.