My sophomore year, I transferred to WKU from a small, private school in Tennessee. It was intimidating. And though I acted like I wasn’t nervous about the transition, I was actually freaking out.
How will I make friends? Where will I eat? Will people think I’m weird? Will I be forced into classes with freshmen? Will I still graduate on time?
Transferring can be hard. You might get lost. You might have to start over. At times, figuring out a new university and town might make you feel like a freshman again. But don’t freak out.
Here are a few things to remember that might make your first semester at WKU a little easier.
1. People don’t know you’re a transfer student
I felt like the word “TRANSFER” was written in permanent marker across my forehead. But it was not. No one knows this is your first year at WKU, except for you.
2. You can still graduate on time
Though I transferred to WKU to start a completely new degree, I am still graduating on time. It took full course loads each semester and two summer classes, but it’s possible.
3. You aren’t alone
You might feel alone, but you’re not. There are plenty of other transfer students on campus, and we’re pretty cool if I do say so myself.
4. Get involved
At the beginning of my first semester at WKU, I was intimidated by the campus and amount of people who were already here. Everyone had their own friends and routines, but I didn’t.
Even though I was scared, I realized I had to put myself out there. Watching TV in my room every day after class wasn’t the best way to make new friends. I had to get out there. You should, too.
5. Transferring is a great way to start over
People transfer for many different reasons, but sometimes, it’s what someone needs to start over. Maybe you didn’t make the best decisions freshmen year, or maybe you didn’t study enough. No one here knows that.
Make the most of this new experience, and be the best you that you can be.