MSU Denver social work graduate student Christy Walker pulls a book off a shelf in the Auraria Library

During her sophomore year at a community college, Christy Walker realized that where she was wasn’t where she wanted to be.

“Transferring to another university is a daunting task, but the school I was attending wasn’t my perfect fit,” said the Metropolitan State University of Denver Social Work graduate student.

When Walker learned that MSU Denver has a streamlined admissions process specifically designed for transfer students and offers resources that go above and beyond other universities in the area, it made transferring much more accessible. She was also attracted by the institution’s diversity and inclusivity. But even with all of the benefits, the difference in cost presented challenges, leaving Walker to wonder if she could afford to continue her education.

MSU Denver planned for that, too.

During her sophomore year at a community college, Christy Walker realized that where she was wasn’t where she wanted to be.

“Transferring to another university is a daunting task, but the school I was attending wasn’t my perfect fit,” said the Metropolitan State University of Denver Social Work graduate student.

When Walker learned that MSU Denver has a streamlined admissions process specifically designed for transfer students and offers resources that go above and beyond other universities in the area, it made transferring much more accessible. She was also attracted by the institution’s diversity and inclusivity. But even with all of the benefits, the difference in cost presented challenges, leaving Walker to wonder if she could afford to continue her education.

MSU Denver planned for that, too.

“The University linked me to a scholarship program specifically created to help community college students bridge the tuition gap – they even introduced me to the donor who made my scholarship possible!” said Walker, who is so passionate about the program and grateful for the support that she became a peer mentor for fellow scholarship recipients.

MSU Denver social work graduate student Christy Walker sits in front of the red and blue MSU Denver sign inside JSSB

The first-generation student plans to work at MSU Denver when she graduates in 2025, empowering students with sage advice borne of experience: “There are going to be obstacles in the road ahead, and you will get through it no matter how it feels at the time.”

Walker will also share the importance of taking advantage of the campus resources and connections made possible by the University and the donor community – the very opportunities that have set her up to be a Changemaker in the classroom, in her career and as a leader in her community.

“Donors change lives by making college possible for so many students,” she said. “Their support is encouraging.”

“It helps to know that an entire MSU Denver community cares about my success as much as I do!”