Transitioning to a new university can be challenging for lots of students independently of their backgrounds. It can take lots of effort to figure out all the requirements, calculate how your credits apply, what the options are in terms of housing, dining and the list goes on. In short, there are a lot of details you need to consider and pay attention to when you are transferring to a different school. Sometimes it feels like you are starting the entire college experience over again and staying a little behind your peers. But this is not true! You had your past and you are not brand new to college life. You are familiar with the system and only need to figure out the differences between your old school and the one you are deciding to go to. In fact, the process goes smoothly if you follow the guideline provided by every school and use the resources wisely. Once you are in, you will adjust easily! Don’t be scared to make a change in your direction to succeed! You are never alone and there is always someone you can reach out to! Below are some tips that I found useful from my experience as a college transfer student.
Be sure to attend the orientation!
If you want to have a smooth transition to a new university you really should attend the Transfer & Commuter Student orientation program, offered on August 19, and don’t forget to register! It is an important step in adjusting to the CU campus where you will get all relevant information on support services and advising for your academic major! It is also a great opportunity to make connections and meet other transfer buffs, Journey Leaders as well as various transfer support staff! There are going to be campus tours, breakouts, different panels, and dinner specifically for transfer students! Don’t miss out on your chance to learn how things work at your new school and make friends!
Socialize
Find a group that will help you to fit in and make you feel like you belong! Transferring to a new college can be stressful for most of the students because they are thrown into a new environment without knowing anyone around. Sometimes, it takes longer for some people to make friends and it’s okay! Being a part of a community where you can be yourself is life-changing! There are lots of opportunities to meet new people and make friends for everyone in college! I find the easiest way to make connections is through social media! You can find transfer student communities through Instagram and facebook pages. Joining clubs and organizations that stand out is another great way to make connections and find people that share similar passions. You will also benefit from getting networking opportunities and expanding your resume! There are currently over 550 student organizations you can explore, and you can always start your own if there is nothing that matches your interest! There is also a Non-Traditional Student Organization which can help you to connect with other transfer buffs! Check out this list to give you a good start or stop by the office of the Center for Student Involvement (CSI) located in the University Memorial Center 330, 207 UCB,1669 Euclid Avenue, Boulder CO 80309.
Take full advantage of campus resources!
College is not only about going to classrooms and sitting through lectures, but it has so much more to offer! Utilize all resources available on campus that will help you to prepare for a career, gain new skills, and assist you with mental well-being. Start thinking of college as an experience! It’s like a huge funfair, and there is always a new game to try! Honestly, I keep finding new campus events, websites, and panels every day! Make sure to stay in touch with your academic advisor! Consider your academic advisor as your new best friend, especially during your first semester after transferring. They will guide you to make the best decisions based on his background in a similar field and give information on how to fulfill your degree requirement without wasting time and money. You can always schedule an appointment through your Buff Portal or stop by the drop-in office hours. I find academic advisors, a writing center, tutoring, career, and mental health services the most helpful to accommodate in college! Don’t forget to check out the transfer student webpage where you can get more resources specifically for transfer students! Here is the full list of CU services that will support you in your journey.
Have fun!
Most likely you will never come back to college as an undergraduate so get the most out of your college experience! Remember, that nobody is perfect, and nobody has it all together. It is okay to have doubts, but don’t be afraid to take risks if that is what it takes to make your dream come true! College is about trying new things and exploring yourself! Start doing things today that will push you towards who you want to become tomorrow! Remember, that you deserve to be here! You belong here!
Kamila is a senior at CU Boulder majoring in Neuroscience and Psychology from Kazakhstan, Almaty. After graduation, she plans to work as a lab assistant and get a master’s degree in the field of Neuropsychology. In her free time, she loves to explore the outdoors, make pottery, and cook with her roommates!