Advice from a Transfer Student

So, you are thinking about transferring! First of all, you have love and support right here through this computer screen because even clicking on this link is an enormous step. I am proud of you. Transferring is one of the hardest things a student can do in their college career, but it is one of the best decisions a student can make for themselves. However, let’s get into the details. Why do you want to transfer? Think about it for a while, let your thoughts flow, and don’t be afraid of the ideas that pass through your mind. I began to know that I wanted to transfer in the middle of my first semester at my original university. I wanted a place that was more urban and with more opportunities, a more richly diverse environment, and an opportunity to be deeply challenged academically. With these things in mind I began to make a pros and cons list of my current school and the prospect of transferring to a new one. There were many risks but, obviously, I ended up choosing to take the leap and go down the transferring path. To say it bluntly, this decision to follow my gut despite the difficulties I thought I would have to endure was the best decision I have ever made. Nevertheless, we are getting ahead of ourselves. 

It is completely, totally, and unconditionally OK to transfer. You have not failed. It is unrealistic for every seventeen year old planning to attend college to know where they want to go during their senior year of high school. If transferring is the right path for you, you should take it! There is a place out there waiting for you. 

However, starting the college process all over again is not the most exciting thing out there. In fact, it’s pretty daunting. Start off by doing some research on schools. Keep an open mind, so try not to rule any school or any one type of school out. Think about what is working and what isn’t working for you at your current institution, and then apply that to how you filter through research. I started off by looking at city schools and then narrowing down my list by the type of people that attend each school. I was looking for an intellectually stimulating, diverse, and warm community within a bustling city. I might as well have written BARNARD in big blue letters on my forehead! 

Once you have some thoughts about certain schools and your mind is at ease about transferring a bit more, it is time to open up those applications again. I know, I know, but we have to do it. Work through your personal statement stating your reasons for transferring and your supplements. Make sure to put your best foot forward by tailoring each answer to the specific school you are applying to. Then, edit, edit, edit! If you feel comfortable, have someone else look over your essays. A different set of eyes always helps to catch mistakes in writing. Finally, it’s time to submit your baby. You have put in so much work, so get it off your chest and let the universe take care of the rest. 

Lastly, the waiting… Transfers often find out their college results later than first year applicants. I learned I was accepted to Barnard in late May (I applied for a Fall transfer), so try not to let the anticipation eat you alive. Everything is going to work out, and you will end up where you need to be, I promise. I can’t wait to see you on campus!