Transferring to a new college can be scary. But transferring to a new college during the middle of the year can be even scarier. Here are five things I have learned the first three weeks after transferring from a school in Florida, to a school in the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
1. Orientation Will Be Your Best Friend
Coming in during the middle of the year, means that there will already be a lot of groups of friends who have been in classes together for at least a few months, maybe even years. Orientation will be filled with new people, just like you. So utilize it! Be your best self, and try to meet people within your major or that you have classes with. I guarantee that you will meet at least one person during orientation who will become one of your best friends.
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2. Non-Transfers Do Not Bite
Though most non-transfers have already found their places with people in the first semester, this does not mean that they are all not open to making new friends. And though there will be people who are closed off to new friends in their groups, there are plenty of people who will welcome you into their circles. If you make a friend in class, don't be scared to hang out with them and their other friends!
3. Respect Your Roommate
If you are transferring into a dorm and your roommate has been living there for a whole semester, do not immediately act like you own the place. Respect your roommate's rules and how they like things to be. Do not cause drama with them and try to keep things as peaceful as possible.
4. Focus On Classes
You have to remember that all of your teachers and the majority of your classmates have been doing this "school thing" for a few months. You will be feeling loads of excitement from your new start, but it is not a start for the majority. Don't get caught up with parties just yet. Get accustomed to your classes and start the semester off right.5. Enjoy Your New Life
Though you need to focus on school, remember to have fun and take everything in. No matter where you are, you are in a new place with new people. Enjoy it! You will learn so much about yourself and the world around you if you allow yourself to let it happen. If you are coming from a school that you did not enjoy, or if you are entering college for the first time, things will be a lot different and hopefully a lot better. Learn, and have fun!
