For many students at Schoolcraft College, transferring to a four-year university can feel overwhelming. Between application deadlines, transfer requirements and figuring out who to contact, the process is often more complicated than expected. That’s exactly what inspired Joe LoSchiavo, founder and president of the Transfer Club, to take action.

LoSchiavo is currently taking general classes at Schoolcraft to prepare for his next step when he transfers to Michigan State University. But his own experience showed him how confusing the transfer process can be.

“I created the club as I realized it is not that easy to find all the information,” said LoSchiavo.

A Club for Students Exploring Their Options

The Transfer Club was designed not only for students who have already decided to transfer, but for anyone exploring their academic options.

The club invites representatives from universities to campus so students can ask questions directly. Events often include panel discussions with counselors and students, along with food and drinks to create a relaxed atmosphere. The goal is to make conversations feel natural instead of intimidating.

One of the biggest challenges, according to LoSchiavo, is simply getting in touch with the right people. Some universities don’t even have transfer offices, which makes it all the more difficult to get in contact with them.
To help with that, the club works on gathering contacts and organizing information in one place. Instead of spending hours researching online, students can find clearer guidance through the club.

“The goal is to consolidate all the information that’s out there and make it easier for people to read through it without researching everything themselves,” said LoSchiav.

Changing the Way Students See Community College

LoSchiavo also wants to challenge the idea that starting at a community college is somehow a disadvantage.
There is a misconception that students miss out on universities if they go to a community college, but Joe explains that students can still visit other universities and go to events on other campuses.

For him, choosing Schoolcraft first was not a compromise, it was a strategic decision. He does not regret starting at a community college before transferring to Michigan State University. In fact, he highlights one major advantage: avoiding unnecessary student debt.

Growing as a Leader

Starting and leading the Transfer Club has also helped LoSchiavo grow personally.
He says the role has built his confidence and improved his communication skills. Planning events, organizing schedules and contacting professionals pushed him outside of his comfort zone. He explains that there is no risk in reaching out to people.

He also discovered that being active on campus can completely change your experience.

“School is just what you make out of it. Since I stepped up and put myself out there, my whole personality grew. Having one victory in your pocket makes you feel better, and then you go for the next one,” said LoSchiavo.

Advice for Future Transfer Students

When asked what advice he would give students thinking about transferring, LoSchiavo answers clearly:

“Be on top of it. Don’t put it off. Don’t think you still have time for it. There are a lot of moving parts with transferring, especially if you’re not on a linear path. Have everything on the radar and keep an eye on it.”

Staying organized and starting early can make a big difference.

A Vision Beyond Graduation

As the club is in its first year, there are not yet official “success stories” to highlight, but LoSchiavo is confident about the future impact. He saw a lot of enthusiasm when the club was first proposed. The positive feedback confirmed for him that the idea was valuable and needed on campus.

Before graduating this summer, LoSchiavo hopes to grow the club and organize a larger event. Most importantly, he wants to find students who are willing to continue leading it.

“My mission is not only to create this club to give students the right support to make their transfer as smooth as possible,” he says, “but also to find the right people who run the club.”
Sustainability matters. LoSchiavo envisions a Transfer Club that operates with established university contacts, structured routines and a clear schedule available before each semester begins. Students would know in advance what events to expect and how to prepare.

Investing in Yourself

At the core of LoSchiavo’s motivation is a belief his parents always taught him: education is something no one can take away from you.
That philosophy now extends beyond his own academic journey. Through the Transfer Club, LoSchiavo is building a foundation not just for himself, but for fellow students navigating similar transitions.

In the end, LoSchiavo’s message to the Schoolcraft community is simple but powerful: if you want to build your future, you have to take initiative.

“You have to do something for yourself to make the path for your career,” said LoSchiavo. “It helps you build the foundation.”
And thanks to the Transfer Club, that foundation may now be a little easier to construct.

For those interested in getting involved, students can reach out directly to LoSchiavo or attend meetings on Tuesdays from 2–3 p.m.

Joining early in the semester offers the greatest opportunity to benefit from networking events and university panels, though membership remains open at any time.