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Drew University’s Fall Forward Program Provided a Mid-Semester College Solution for Charlie Collins C’24

The transfer student and lacrosse athlete found a home at Drew

September 2022 – Drew University’s Fall Forward program, successfully launched last year, allows students to enroll mid-semester and take classes on a part-time basis.

Charlie Collins C’24 took advantage of the customized eight-week college experience before ultimately deciding to transfer to Drew from Muhlenberg College.

Collins was considering his transfer options in fall 2021, but the timing was not working in his favor. The academic semester had already begun. He would either have to wait until the spring or enroll at a community college, thwarting his hopes to continue his lacrosse career.

After meeting Dan Liedl C’97, men’s lacrosse head coach, and Nick Kilkowski, assistant men’s lacrosse coach, regarding possible opportunities at Drew, Collins decided to enroll in Drew’s Fall Forward program.

Collins was able to attend Drew part-time and earn six college credits while gaining skills, confidence, and insights critical to making the transition to college full time.

“With the Fall Forward program, they were able to get me right into school by taking classes and earning credits,” said Collins. 

“Coach Leidl really impressed me when I visited the campus,” continued Collins. “As an alum, he’s really passionate about the school and has a prestigious background in lacrosse.”

The Fall Forward program solidified Collins’ decision to matriculate to Drew as a full-time student and officially become a member of Drew’s men’s lacrosse team. 

“Once I was here for two weeks, I decided I definitely wanted to stay at Drew."

“Once I was here for two weeks, I decided I definitely wanted to stay at Drew. I really liked the faculty and I met a few lacrosse players. It was a good fit and the process to become a full time student was pretty seamless.”

Collins is currently a business major with a minor in English. He is considering Drew’s Dual-Degree in Finance. “I have another year of eligibility in lacrosse and I could earn my Master of Science in Finance in just one additional year.”

The Fall Forward application deadline for the fall 2022 semester is October 11, with classes running from October 20 through December 16.

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