Realizing that you want to transfer from an institution you started out at takes a lot of courage and bravery. Some may find out that the school they thought they would love simply just wasn’t for them, like me.
For my freshman year of college, I decided to go to the local university that a lot of people from my high school were going to. When I was growing up, I was a homebody and always loved the idea of being close to home when it came to picking a school. For the first couple of months of freshman year, it was smooth sailing; I loved my friends, I loved the campus and felt so happy to still be so close to home, but that quickly changed. I started to dislike the school and I was going through a lot of changes in my life at the time. Since I was so close to home, I ended up driving home almost every day after class, and soon enough I decided that the best decision was to commute to school. Being at home gave me the comfort I needed at a time when I was very confused with life. After a couple of months of commuting from home, I really started thinking about possibly transferring; I felt as though I needed a fresh start, and that was the best way to do so.
Transferring to a new school can be a very scary change in life, but I’m here to share five helpful tips to make the transition as easy as possible.
- Go to transfer orientation
Going to the new student orientation can be very helpful. You get to meet other transfers and students in your major, and you can learn about all the resources you will have on campus while being a new transfer student.
2. Join clubs
Chances are that whatever college you end up going to will have a large number of clubs that you can sign up for. Whether you’re into sports, reading, writing or helping the community, there will be a club for you. This is a great way to get involved and meet so many people.
3. Open your door and meet people on your floor
As a transfer student, you will most likely be placed in an on-campus dorm or apartment with other transfer students. Don’t be afraid to leave your door open and go around your floor and introduce yourself to others. This may be out of your comfort zone, but this can be a great way to meet some new friends.
4. Go to all events possible
There are many on-campus events that take place during the school year, so go to as many as you possibly can. Going to a sporting event at your school can be a great place to meet new people. Many schools have tailgates and fun activities before the game so take advantage, and who knows, you might find a new love for a sport.
5. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR SECOND CHANCE
Getting to have a second chance when you transfer to a new school is such a great opportunity. Do everything in your power to make it the best experience possible. Get involved, meet new people and always remember to do what makes you happy.