How a UA transfer student came to feel like he’s ‘been here for years’

Drew Bailey knows how to embrace change.

At The University of Akron (UA), he’s a scholar in the Williams Honors College, on the air as part of the student-run radio station WZIP-FM, a member of the Run Club and has been inducted into Psi Chi, a college honor society in psychology.

Bailey—now a senior double majoring in communication and psychology—didn’t begin his college experience with so many feathers in his cap. And his experience didn’t even begin with being an Akron Zip.

But it all came together for Bailey when he transferred to UA.

Coming to The University of Akron

Bailey, a Hartville, Ohio, native started his role as a student in higher education at another four-year institution nearer to his home. Two years in, he found that the limited resources and opportunities weren’t fulfilling his ambitions, even his passion for competitive running.

“There, I realized I didn’t enjoy running teams enough to justify the limited resources and opportunities at a smaller university,” Bailey said. So, he sought out a university that could offer him more—both academically and socially.

Bailey said his decision to transfer wasn’t made lightly, but he had strong reasons for choosing UA. One of the significant factors was the positive experiences his four older sisters had as Zips before graduating.

“Each had, in general, a very positive experience at UA,” Bailey said. Plus, he received the Smart Choice Scholarship for transfer students who were originally accepted to UA but attended elsewhere before transferring to Akron. “The process of transferring credits into UA went smoothly, and I received clear communication about which credits would and would not transfer over.”

Embracing campus life and opportunities

One of the aspects that immediately stood out to Bailey when he visited UA were his options for what to study. (Afterall, at UA, passion meets possibility.)

“I was impressed by the number of academic options and opportunities at UA, as well as co-curriculars and clubs,” Bailey recalled about his change of heart for colleges “I hadn't completely decided on my major, which I later added when I transferred in, but was impressed by the number of options.”

Then there was the vibrant campus life.

Bailey didn’t waste any time getting involved on campus. He’s exploring his passion in athletics by earning the position as sports director of WZIP to get hands-on broadcasting experience. His interest in psychology resulted in adding the discipline as a second major—and another time commitment on top of already running in a student club and his academic responsibilities as an honors scholar.

“I think it’s difficult to feel like you’ve gotten all that you got out of the ‘college experience’ unless you’re active with various activities and organizations,” Bailey said. “Those have become the most rewarding and enjoyable part of my university experience. I’ve made friends, re-discovered passions and have made valuable personal and professional connections. I’m making the most of my college experience and maximizing my time at UA, which I appreciate.

While Bailey approaches graduation in spring 2025, he is confident that his experiences at UA have prepared him for whatever the future holds. He’s interested in pursuing a career in sports media or broadcasting, and his role as sports director has given him invaluable experience in the field.

“I’m not focused on a specific career goal, but I’m confident my experience at and through UA is helping me grow on a personal and professional level,” he said.

As he continues to make the most of his time left at UA as a senior, there’s no doubt that he will leave a lasting impact on the university and its community.

“I feel like I’ve been here for years,” he said.

Media Contact: Cristine Boyd, cboyd@es-one.com, 330-972-6476