PSU Transfer and Returning Student Resource Center

Happy Halloween from the Monochromatic Party People of the Transfer & Returning Student Resource Center (TRSRC)!

👻 🎃 🧙‍♀️ 🧹 🕷 🌈

Meet Matt (he/him), a new transfer student to Portland State University (PSU), majoring in Social Science!

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
💚 I was born in St. Louis, grew up in Iowa City, went to college in California, and moved to Portland in 1994!

Are there any experiences you've had prior to coming to PSU that were particularly significant to your student journey?
💚 I have wanted to be a professional musician for as long as I can remember. It's part of why I didn't finish college the first time. I spent 10 years as a children's entertainer and stay-at-home dad to my daughter until March 2020. When COVID hit, and live music disappeared, my world turned upside down. I came to the realization that as a single parent in Portland, I was going to need a more reliable income than playing music could provide. That's what led me to wanting to finish my degree at PSU!

What are you looking forward to this year?
💚 Everything! I'm transferring in as a senior, and hoping to get into the graduate teaching program when I'm done. Honestly, the idea of my mom being able to see me graduate is really exciting to me.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
🎸 I've had an awesome career playing music for kids and families in Portland! I love doing things with my daughter, whether walking around in nature or watching goofy TV shows. I also love riding my bike around our beautiful city!

Anything else you would like to share?
💚 This is my first term at PSU, but I was fortunate enough to take the Summer Bridge Scholars class at the end of this summer. Working with my fellow students and amazing teacher Randi, I was able to build confidence in my ability to succeed in school. I have always assumed that I'm not a "good" student, but with some help and guidance, I reframed my thinking and accomplished some truly transformative growth.

I am so grateful for all the amazing support and opportunities at PSU. Coming back to school after such a long break is a big change, and a little scary sometimes. Thanks to this community, I know I'm on the right path!

Shout out to Matt for being a truly engaged transfer student and an all-around fabulous addition to PSU! 🎉