ALLI WICHERT
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
KAITRISS DEGROFT
STAFF WRITER
9/22/2025
Alma College marks the end of summer with the arrival of the Class of 2029. Shelly Buschle,
Senior Director of Admissions, shared the following statistics.
We have 371 new undergraduate students enrolled for the upcoming school year. Of these, 44
are domestic and international transfer students, including 12 para-to-pro participants who are
now enrolled as degree-seeking students for the fall 2025 semester. A para-to-pro student is
someone who starts in a support role and is training to advance into a fully licensed professional
position.
Audrey Mey (‘27), a junior who previously attended Spring Arbor University, decided to
transfer to Alma College with a major in Psychology this year.
“The transfer process had its ups and downs. It’s tough to leave a school and team with all of
your best friends after three years, especially when you need to change your major,” said Mey.
Still, she emphasizes that Alma has warmly and sincerely welcomed her, helping her feel
supported and part of the community.
“Ultimately, everyone here has made my transition go smoothly and has helped me in any
way they can,” said Mey.
Mey is not only continuing her academic journey at Alma College, she’s also making her
mark on the field as a student-athlete. As a member of the women’s soccer team, Mey has
quickly become an integral part of the campus community.
“What prompted my decision to transfer was the chance to be part of this amazing
program that will make some history these next couple of seasons, and for the chance to
play under Coach Sam,” said Mey.
Embracing campus life, she’s found new ways to get involved and build connections, both
of which have helped make her transition a positive one.
“So far, I am really enjoying my time at Alma. I’ve joined a few clubs and met some great
people,” said Mey.
Alongside individual student stories like Mey’s, this year’s class also showcases Alma
College’s geographic diversity.
The incoming class is represented by 10 countries, some including Canada, Ecuador,
Ireland, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
14 states are represented: Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana,
Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, Texas, and Wisconsin.
The geographic reach of the incoming class reflects Alma College’s ongoing efforts to
expand its recruitment and appeal to students.
“We really focused on working with faculty to help build connections with the prospective
students. Admissions counselors partnered with faculty or coaches to present to high
school clubs and organizations, which went beyond the traditional guidance office visits,”
said Buschle.
The team also launched Academic Discovery Day, an invite-only event where students
came to campus for a deeper look at academics and to help keep the enrollment
expectations.
“Students attended two academic sessions led by faculty and current students, along with
an academic fair hosted by campus organizations and academic departments,” said
Buschle.
With so many students, faculty, and staff involved in welcoming prospective students, the
Admissions office expressed its gratitude.
“The Admissions office wants to thank the entire campus for helping us reach our
enrollment goals. It takes us all to build a class, and we really appreciate everyone’s
efforts,” said Buschle.
With a diverse and talented group of students joining Alma College this fall, the campus
looks forward to a vibrant year ahead.
The Almanian: News 
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