He’s probably the only Alabama native who isn’t caught up in the Alabama/Auburn rivalry, at least from a business standpoint.  Wade Edwards, a 2009 graduate from the University of Alabama, now spends his time supporting all of Alabama’s four-year universities.

Part of a new initiative funded by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, called the National College Advising Corps, Edwards assists students who are interested in transferring to a four-year university.

“This program is aimed at increasing college access to Alabama universities for students currently attending community colleges across the state,” Edwards said.

Edwards is based at Faulkner State Community College.  Although most of his days are on the Bay Minette campus, Edwards spends at least one day a week at all three Faulkner State campuses, Bay Minette, Fairhope and Gulf Shores. He plans to visit community organizations to promote awareness of the program.

Edwards is encouraging all students planning to transfer to come see him.  “Basically, I can help students who are interested in transferring from start to finish,” Edwards said.  “Whether they need information on scholarships and financial aid or housing and academic transfer, I am here to help.”

“We want students to be aware of the help we provide,” said Edwards.  “We want to make a positive impact on the state and the students.”

The National College Advising Corps has been a great success since its inception two years ago.  Twelve advisors have been placed across the state to answer the questions of college transfer. Because the advisers involved in the program are recent graduates, they have seen issues regarding transfer first hand, and they can better serve the students in need of help.

Although the graduates are all from the University of Alabama, they can help students transfer to any four-year university in the state.

Edwards, who is a native of Guntersville, Ala., majored in Health Care Management at the University of Alabama.  Although this was not in his career path, he said he is grateful for the opportunity to help students steer clear of the obstacles of transferring.