So, you did all your homework, you picked the school of your dreams, you got in, and….you hate it. Sometimes, even if you think you figured out what you wanted to do, things don’t just turn out the way you expected. You can either stick it out, or you can transfer to a new school. Though transferring may be daunting, it’s often the best choice if you simply can’t stand where you are now.
First, though, a word of caution. Be sure that you really can’t fix the situation with your current school. Transferring can be costly, and can set you behind in getting your degree. Perhaps you should try giving yourself more time to adapt. Sometimes, a school might clash with your initial expectations, but wind up being quite good in the long run once your get over your preconceptions. Just make sure you know what you’re doing, as endless school hopping will get you nowhere.
So, you’ve decided for sure that you need to get out for sure. How do you go about making the right decision the second time around? There are a couple things to keep in mind. First of all, and most importantly, be sure that you identify the issues that made you leave your old school, and make sure that these do not come up again with your new school. If your old school was too small, make sure you find a bigger one. If the lack of parties at your school was an issue, be sure to pick a known party school. Whatever your issue was, be sure that you don’t repeat the same thing by choosing a similar school.
Another issue to consider is that you’ll be going through transfer admissions, which often work quite differently then freshman admissions. You’re application and criteria will be different, and you need to be prepared. If you have an interview, be sure to have a good explanation about why you’re leaving your old school, and how you think the new school will be an improvement. More weight will be placed on your college performance to date than on your high school achievements, so be sure to update your resume with everything you’ve done since.
Another issue to consider is the matter of transfer credit. You likely completed some classes at your previous college, and you’ll want them to transfer over so you don’t have to take them again. Be sure to check in with your prospective schools and see which of your credits will transfer. Different schools all have very different policies, so you’ll definitely want to get this issue straightened out before transferring.
So, you can see that this process is not easy at all. You’re making a big decision, and going through the admissions/acceptance process all over again. However, if your old school wasn’t working out at all, you owe it to yourself to make the big decision and switch on over the the real school of your dreams.
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