Transitions in Education
Tips for college transfer students
There are many reasons students choose to transfer to new colleges or universities. Most are students who started at community colleges or two-year programs, earning affordable credits while building their academic resumes. Some students transfer after realizing the environment wasn’t a good fit for them or because of a change in their financial situation. Some choose to pursue a different major and find a more suitable program elsewhere.
Whatever your reason for transferring, take advantage of the opportunity for a fresh start and renew your sense of purpose and dedication to your studies.
Here are a few tips to help you set yourself up for success at the right school.
1) Do your research
With your goals and reasons for transferring in mind—even better, on paper— explore prospective schools’ websites and social media. Visit in person when classes are in session, if possible. It will help you get a feel for what it would be like to be a student there. Reach out to alumni and current students and ask honest questions to help you make an informed decision.
2) Understand the transfer policy
Make sure you know which of your credits will transfer and how many more you’ll need to earn your degree. Use tools like the ones available at collegetransfer. net to help make the most of your transferrable credits.
3) Crunch the numbers
Don’t forget to account for all expenses, including commuting or moving costs and transfer and application fees. You will probably have to reapply for financial aid. You may even find scholarship opportunities for transfer students.
4) Meet with advisors
Don’t wait until after your first week to meet with an advisor. They can help you plan your class schedule and make sure you take the best courses in the correct order for your degree. They will help you plot your path and stay on track.
5) Make yourself at home
It’s normal for transfer students to feel like outsiders at first. You can avoid that by attending orientation to meet other students in the same boat as you. Getting involved with clubs and organizations is a great way to meet other students with similar interests.
Give yourself time to assimilate socially. Before you know it, you’ll have a new set of lifelong friends and be on your way to earning the degree you need for the future you want.