If you have ever transferred from one university to another, you know how stressful the process can be. Sending applications and transcripts, the possibility of losing credits and having to retake courses, and the difficulty of transitioning between two different colleges can make the transferring process very stressful. But once you are finally enrolled in your new college, the stress and anxiety can finally fade away. You are a new student to the University of Alabama… now what?
Being a transfer student may feel like being a freshman all over again. You’re in a new school with different rules, technologies, and expectations, not to mention a whole new campus. Now that you’re here, how can you become involved, but not feel as if you are a freshman again? The University of Alabama has many programs available to transfers who don’t want to be alone in the transfer process. These programs help you to meet other transfer students who are going through the same experience as you are. The move from one school to another is much less stressful and intimidating if you are with others who are going through the same thing. Not only will it help you become more comfortable with your move, it will help you meet other students who are in need of support and encouragement as well as offer that support and encouragement to you as well.
Participating with the transfer student organization can be enormously helpful in meeting other students going through the same transitions as you are, but there are also other ways to become involved at the University. UA has a substantial Greek life that holds fall and spring rush to recruit new members. Being a part of the Greek life helps you meet many new girls who will become your sisters, not just for your college years but for your life. Being a part of a sorority creates unforgettable relationships. Much of your time will be spent with the girls of your sorority who will love you and who will all be willing to help you throughout your transition. You don’t have to be a freshman to rush, and there is nothing wrong with rushing as an upperclassman. When you become a part of a sorority, you become a part of a family.
While Greek life is a very good way to meet new friends and become a part of something that will bring support and unforgettable experiences, it’s not for everyone. Being a part of a sorority is not the only way to meet new people and get involved with a group. Whatever your major might be, there will be a club or an organization within that field of study for you to become involved with where you can meet others with the same interests as you. It is important to become associated with your college of study in order to gain experience and learn about opportunities that will help you in your career and help you meet others who can support and guide you throughout your schooling. As a journalism major there are opportunities for me such as writing for HC Alabama, The Crimson White, American Copy Editors Society, Society for News Design, and Society of Professional Journalist. These are a few examples for my major, but there are some for every major including Capstone Engineering Society for engineering majors and Public Relations Student Society for public relation majors.
Transferring is and will always be a stressful but exciting experience. Meeting new people and enjoying your new school will be worth all the trouble of moving schools. Don’t be afraid to join clubs and organizations. UA has hundreds of different groups you can become involved with. There is one for every activity, interest, and major. Also don’t be afraid to talk with your counselor. It is very important to know what exactly you need to take and in what time you need to take it, especially since it might be confusing with your transferred courses. Whatever the reason for your transfer, enjoy the beauty of your new school and take advantage of every opportunity you can during your college experience. Go to sporting events and join intramural teams. There are so many opportunities at the university so don’t hold back just because you’re new. You’re starting over, so make it count!