Transfer students find opportunity at TU

When Vladimir Chervenkov ’25 started thinking seriously about transferring to TU, he wasn’t looking for a compromise. He wanted the full Towson University experience, just closer to home.

That’s exactly what he found at Towson University in Northeastern Maryland (TUNE).

Chervenkov, who earned a degree in business administration with a track in leadership and management from the College of Business and Economics, transferred to TUNE in fall 2023 after beginning his college journey at Stevenson University and earning his associate degree at Harford Community College.

“The convenience and savings mattered,” Chervenkov says, “but what really stood out was that everything—the courses, tuition, degree, even the school name on the diploma—is the same as the main campus.”

Before enrolling, he attended an information session at TUNE, an experience that sealed his decision.

With help from his adviser at Harford Community College, the transition to TUNE was seamless. Once on campus, Chervenkov quickly noticed what makes TUNE unique.

“The class sizes are smaller, and the professors get to know you,” he says. “You’re more than just a name on a roster.”

That personal attention made a lasting impact. Chervenkov credits faculty members Joseph Zuccaro and Marc Flores—who each taught him multiple courses—with taking the time to truly understand their students.

“They’d ask how things were going and really listen,” he says. “They could tell when something was off and would help you work through it.”

Another standout was professor Jan Baum, whose introductory business course left a lasting impression.

“She put more effort into that class than any I’ve ever taken,” Chervenkov says. “We had a semester‑long competition where teams started their own companies and competed in the same market. It was hands‑on and real—it taught us lessons you can’t get from a textbook.”

Outside the classroom, Chervenkov dove into campus life. He carried a full course load while working roughly 20 hours a week helping staff the reception desk and assisting with event setup and cleanup. He also joined the Future Leaders of Business Club, part of a close‑knit business cohort that brought in speakers and partnered with local schools, including visits to Bel Air High School.

On top of that, he completed a 15‑hour‑per‑week internship at Har‑Co Credit Union as a contact center agent—bringing his weekly commitments close to 40 hours.

That opportunity came through strong staff support. Chervenkov credits Jaclyn Coates, Assistant Director at TUNE, with helping him refine professional outreach emails that led directly to internship connections.

Working closely with staff also gave Chervenkov behind‑the‑scenes exposure to the university.

“I got to see how everything works,” he says. “I connected with a lot of people and made a lot of friends. Being part of the cohort and seeing where everyone ended up was really meaningful.”

I connected with a lot of people and made a lot of friends. Being part of the cohort and seeing where everyone ended up was really meaningful.

Vlad Chervenkov

Today Chervenkov is building his career locally, something he says TUNE made possible. He works as a jewelry sales associate at Saxon’s Diamond Centers, gaining hands‑on experience in commissioned sales and customer interaction. He also hopes to continue his education by applying to graduate programs at Towson University.

“Being at TUNE made me love TU,” he says. “I stayed local, and I got a job through a connection I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”

For students thinking about transferring, Chervenkov’s advice is simple.

“Do it—there’s no reason not to,” he says. “Once you transfer, get involved. Make sure professors and staff know who you are. TUNE can be where you start building your professional network.”

Looking back, Chervenkov says the experience wasn’t without challenges—but it was worth it.

“I really liked TUNE. I liked everyone I worked with. I liked the people in my classes. It wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows, but I made it through, got the degree and I’m happy I did it.”