Denise Almanza
Tennessee Tech University transfer student Denise Almanza is a junior elementary education
major with an endorsement in English as a Second Language (ESL). She transferred to
Tech from Roane State Community College and is from Lenoir City, Tennessee, which
is where she first learned about Tech.
“I heard about Tennessee Tech senior year of high school from one of my former teachers that went there,” she continued. “She recommended me to do the 2+2 program where you do 2 years at a community college and then transfer to Tennessee Tech for the other 2 years.”
Almanza’s choice of study had a big influence on what college she transferred to.
“I chose to transfer to Tennessee Tech because I heard it’s one of the top colleges in Tennessee for education majors,” she explained.
Alamza’s goal with pursuing her degree was to find balance between her close friends, work and school. What stood out to her about Tech’s 2+2 program was the flexibility it provided to her as a student at Roane State Community College.
“There are Tennessee Tech teachers that go teach at Roane State or Pellissippi campuses, so you don’t have to go to Cookeville,” Almanza revealed. “It’s convenient for those who want to stay in their hometown while still getting credit for taking classes that the education majors at Tennessee Tech’s (main) campus take.”
Although she is not on campus in Cookeville, she still receives all of the educational and relational benefits Tech has to offer.
“The teachers are so supportive, and your classmates turn into family because you’re in the same classes and with each other most of the time,” Almaza appreciated.
Almanza discussed her transfer process and credited Jennifer Spivey, Tech advisor in the College of Education and Human Sciences, as someone who supported her along the way.
“There are Tennessee Tech advisors that help you with anything and are there to support you, but the only challenge is just remembering to check your email 24/7 for updates,” she stated. “Advisors also come to Roane State in the middle of the semester to help schedule your next semester.”
Almanza’s advice to students transferring to Tech is to take it slow to combat any overwhelming feelings.
“It might seem nerve racking at first because you have so much new information and questions, but one step at a time will get you closer to the finish line,” she encouraged.
Overall, she appreciates the quality and thoroughness of Tech’s programs as well as the support extended to students.
“Tennessee Tech is a great university for all majors with supportive teachers and admin,” Almanza acknowledged. “They also have lots of resources for students if needed.”