From Uncertainty to Prospect: Elaina Saladino’s Transfer Journey to UNH Manchester
Elaina Saladino began pursuing her bachelor’s degree at UNH Manchester in 2024, choosing to major in ASL/English Interpreting with an anticipated graduation year of 2028.Her decision to transfer was driven by a combination of personal interest adn accessible support systems.
“I chose UNH Manchester for the small and intimate classes, easy connection to faculty and resources, in-state tuition as well as grants and scholarships, and of course the ASL/English Interpreting program,” Elaina explained. A meeting with the program director in fall 2024 solidified her choice. “Between [the director’s] welcoming and encouraging demeanor about the program and my financial aid offer I had no choice but to switch.”
Financial assistance played a key role in making the transition possible. Elaina was awarded the Merrimack valley Scholarship, the Wildcat Family Award, and an additional tuition grant, ensuring both affordability and empowerment in her educational pursuit.
UNH Manchester’s ASL/English Interpreting program fosters a close-knit community focused on practical experience. Elaina emphasized the program’s encouragement of engagement with the Deaf community. “Thru the ASL/English Interpreting program, we do have required hours to spend with the community, but you’re also encouraged to go above that and spend as much time as you can using and observing ASL especially with the Deaf community. These interactions and events are such great opportunities to grow, learn, and create new relationships.”
Despite changing her major from marketing, Elaina continues to utilize her previous skillset.She currently works as a peer advisor in the academic advising office, assisting fellow students and applying her marketing knowledge to outreach efforts.
“This is a very rewarding job because in addition to being there for students and helping shape some elements of their first-year experience, you also get to explore the marketing and social media side of advising. I get to see my work go out on social media, bulletin boards, and TV slides which as a previous marketing major is very rewarding.”
UNH Manchester actively supports transfer students, offering the ability to transfer up to 72 credits from community colleges or 96 credits from four-year schools. Additional resources include dedicated academic advising, transfer-specific scholarships and financial aid, the Millyard Advantage – providing internships, research, and career connections within Manchester’s innovation district – and supportive programs like the transfer Seminar and peer advising.
For students considering a transfer, UNH Manchester provides a streamlined and supportive pathway to a career-focused degree. Further information about transfer opportunities and resources can be found at https://manchester.unh.edu/admissions/transfer-students, and details about the ASL/English Interpreting program are available at https://manchester.unh.edu/.