Transfer Business Fellows Program Launches with Strong Student Engagement

Creating pathways for transfer students to connect, thrive, and build their future at UIC Business.

Group of UIC Business students and staff gathered together, with José Santillán, CFA (BS Accounting ’80) standing at the center of the group.

In January 2026, the Transfer Business Fellows Program was established to support the unique career-readiness, professional-development, and academic-success needs of transfer students. The program was launched as a pilot initiative, with the Spring semester focused on helping students build connections on campus, engage in meaningful opportunities, and share feedback about the resources and support they need to thrive.

During its inaugural semester, 31 students participated in the program. Fellows are committed to attending campus events, actively participating in at least one student organization, and maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. Through these experiences, students expanded their networks, strengthened their engagement with the college community, and contributed valuable insights that will help shape the program’s future.

Looking ahead to the Fall semester, the Transfer Business Fellows Program will continue to grow through expanded programming and enhanced support services. Planned initiatives include the introduction of a peer mentoring program, increased collaboration with student organizations to encourage transfer student involvement, and targeted career readiness programming designed specifically for transfer business students.