Transfer students accounted for nearly half of Davenport University’s enrollment in fall 2025, underscoring the growing importance of alternative pathways to a bachelor’s degree. Each one of those students also had access to financial support because all were eligible for at least one university scholarship.

Whether a student is transferring from a community college or another four-year university, Davenport offers a team of individuals to help them maximize their transfer credits, find financial aid opportunities and identify the best academic pathway to meet their goals.

“From your first contact with our transfer admissions team at Davenport, you’ll have people to support you every step of the way,” said Meaghan Polega, department chair of undergraduate programs for Davenport’s College of Urban Education. “The support we offer is truly what sets us apart.”

Ivan Salinas, a transfer student and senior at Davenport University, began his higher education journey as a baseball player at Henry Ford College in Dearborn, Michigan. He’s on track to graduate in December with a bachelor’s degree in Urban Education with a focus in integrated sciences.

Both academics and athletics drew Salinas to Davenport.

“The university is in a great location near Grand Rapids, and I loved the idea of having small classes at a university where I could really engage with my professors rather than in a 200-person lecture,” Salinas said.

“I also loved the baseball facilities, and I was a huge fan of Coach (Kevin) Tidey and the entire staff.”

John Mayes, senior admissions representative on Davenport’s Lansing campus, works with transfer students daily.

“We can’t stress it enough. Davenport prides itself on being there to help students throughout their transfer process, from transferring credits and identifying financial aid opportunities to choosing the right major and classes,” Mayes said. “It’s our job to make the process an easy one and students will find that our support doesn’t end there. Professors and advisors will continue to check in and help students reach their goals throughout their academic journey.”

Salinas agrees. The admissions team opens the door, and then all of Davenport is there, willing to help.

“When I first applied to the university, Nate Cunningham in admissions did an awesome job explaining everything to me and getting me on a career and degree path that was easy to follow,” Salinas said.

“Since being here, I have had tons of help from Dr. Polega through the education department. Coach Tidey, the entire baseball staff and the athletic trainers have been wonderful along the way.”

Salinas said he made the right decision in choosing Davenport.

“My first two years at Davenport have been awesome. I have met some of my best friends here and have had some unforgettable experiences on the baseball team.”

Salinas hopes to someday be a high school teacher and a baseball coach.

“I hope to inspire younger generations to find and do what they love and to also question what they are told and think for themselves,” he said.