Dear Transfers,

I know you’re about to go on a journey that might scare the crap out of you, might be giving you major anxiety or making you questions so many things. Transferring is not easy, and sometimes it just has to be done for whatever reason: money, friends, to be closer to home or maybe you’re just not happy with the school you’re at. All of these reasons are valid for a change — a big one.

I remember when I put in my deposit to officially transfer; it was terrifying. I started out at DePaul University in the bustling Chicago and I loved it. In the beginning, I was in love with the fast pace of the students, the diversity and challenge that I had been experiencing for the first time ever. It was amazing. Until one day I realized it just wasn’t for me anymore. Something wasn’t clicking, and I realized I needed a change. I began applying to other schools and ended up, once again, falling in love with a college; Marquette. I sent in the money, signed my papers and I became a Golden Eagle.

Sounds simple, right? Nope. Not even close. Transferring is a difficult decision and sometimes it’s not even your own. And sometimes you don’t get the support you need, the support you deserve. When I told my friends I was transferring, some were very supportive, giving me the strength to go through with my decision. They gave me the confidence to do what I needed to. However, some weren’t so supportive. They questioned me and challenged my thinking. It was difficult to hear people doubt me, but they made me rethink my decision and at the end of the day, their questions gave me answers I didn’t even think I needed. Haters and loves alike made me even more confident in my decision.

Now, it’s time for the fun part.

You are so brave. Beginning at a brand new school where you might only know a few people, if any, is so scary. But, you’re strong enough to handle it. The mere fact that you were able to take the leap to simply apply to a new school, that takes guts; guts I didn’t even realize I had until I pulled the trigger and made a decision for myself.

If you’re transferring because of your own decision; you’re amazing. You are being beautifully selfish. You’re taking care of yourself and making the hard decision of leaving a comfortable place so you can grow as a person. That’s incredible.

If you’re transferring and it’s not your decision, you’re so strong. Maybe this wasn’t the easiest decision or news to receive, but you’re about to go on a journey that can only help you become a stronger, braver, experienced person. It sucks, I know. But the strongest people are the ones given the toughest battles. You got this.

It doesn’t mean much, but I’m proud of you.

From, your fellow transfer