To My Fellow Transfer Students,

Being a transfer student has it's own unique challenges. You're coming into a new school in a new area, and sometimes it seems like everyone already has everything figured out. It can be a scary feeling to know that you're the new person in a situation where everyone else already knows each other and where they fit in. And it's not the same as being a freshman. As a freshman, you're coming into the school with a ton of other freshman who are all in the same boat as you. These are going to be your classmates for the next four years so you know they're also probably going to be your friends. As a transfer student, you're coming into the new school on your own, not with a whole class of freshmen. While this can seem scary at first, it's also liberating. Here's some advice from a fellow transfer students on how to make the most out of your transfer and college experience:

Don’t compare yourself to others

You’re here for a specific purpose: to earn a degree. You may have gotten here through different circumstances than your peers, and your educational journey may have been a struggle. Or maybe it wasn’t. Maybe you just changed your mind about what school is best for you. Regardless of your circumstances, don’t compare yourself to others. While it might be easy to judge yourself, it doesn’t make things easier for you. Remember the reason you’re here and focus on what’s important: your education.

Read the syllabi

Transferring to a different school or university can be challenging when you aren’t used to your professors’ expectations. That’s why it’s crucial that you actually read the syllabi. Most professors will outline the course in detail here, explaining assignments and giving you a calendar that breaks down deadlines and exam dates. Sometimes, this is the only assignment explanation you will receive. As a new student, you might not be familiar with the expectations that some professors have, but reading their syllabi can really help.

Get to know the campus and surrounding town

Most of the students who have been attending the college you're transferring to are probably already very familiar with the campus and surrounding environment. This can potentially mean that they have an advantage when it comes to finding new classes or knowing where to buy some quality groceries. Take some time during your first week of the semester (or even before the semester starts if you can) to get to know the area. Take a walk around campus and find out where your classes will be, where the library and cafeterias are, and other places like student unions, bookstores and writing centers. Then explore the town. Find out what grocery stores, laundromats and other places you might frequent are located. This could even be a great way to get to know a new room mate if you have one.

Take advantage of the resources on campus

There are so many useful resources on campus that are free for students! Take advantage of them while you can! Most campuses offer free tutoring services, writing centers, tech support, health services, counseling centers, and even free group fitness classes. There are so many resources to take advantage of on campus. Don’t pass up this opportunity!

Don’t procrastinate

It’s easy to put assignments off, especially when you’re trying to get adjusted to the new campus, town, and people. There are parties you could go to, there are events happening, and you might just be overwhelmed. But if you procrastinate, all of your work might suddenly surprise you at once. Take time to focus on your school work before you go out and socialize. You’ll never regret getting assignments done early. And pulling all-nighters in the library is never fun, trust me.

Get involved

Join some clubs on campus that you think could be interesting. Check if there's a transfer student club (chances are there is). This is a great way to meet new people, fellow transfer students and peers in your major.

Try something new

Whether on campus or in the town, take this time in your life to try something new. If you’ve always wanted to try yoga, take a class! Or take an elective that sounds interesting that you never thought you’d try. After you graduate and go into the “real world,” you might not have as much time to try new things as you’d like. Take advantage of the time and resources available to you now and you might just find something you truly love.

While this list is definitely not exhaustive of the resources and experiences that your college will have to offer, it will hopefully get you started on the right track to have an amazing college experience.

Sincerely,

Your Fellow Transfer Student