Transferring to any university is daunting. Missing out on dorm life, freshman activities, and having that first year to feel out the campus and classes makes the transition all the more difficult (but not impossible!). Here is a helpful guide on how to make a smooth transition:
Fill Out a Roommate Profile at one of the Off-Campus Student Housing Facilities: Boulder has so many awesome student-only apartments within blocks of campus. The facility matches you with people with similar interests that you would hopefully get along with. They may not be your best friends, but it is really important to have a network at home that you can rely on. I lucked out when I transferred here because I was matched up with another girl who had just transferred to CU, so we helped each other figure out the campus and meet people on our floor together.
Take a Course That You Don’t Know Anything About: I’m not saying throw yourself into an advanced Economic Theory class, but take something that may peak your interest, even if it has nothing to do with your intended major. I met some really cool people taking this route because they were people I wouldn’t have normally interacted with but who ended up being good friends of mine that year.
Take Classes at the Rec Center: My first week on campus I bought a semester pass to the Rec Center to take yoga, cycling, Pilates, and cardio classes. I mostly did this because I was intimidated by the huge Rec Center and I had no idea how the equipment was laid out. The classes are taught by awesome instructors and there are people of all levels in the classes. This was a good way to remain active and also meet people in a different setting outside of school.
Clubs, Clubs, Clubs!: I’m not kidding. Join clubs. It’s so amazing to meet people with the same interests as you, academic or not. Whether you’re joining a social sorority, an academic fraternity, a club you were part of at your previous school, or something totally new this is the BEST way to meet people. Boulder does a really good job with their club fair which is hosted every semester, but information is posted on their student organization website. http://sofo.colorado.edu/SOFOsdg.php
Quit Scrolling Through Insta: Before class starts, it’s normal to meander through social media or check your email. Try to put down the phone and close your laptop and meet your neighbors! Knowing just a few people in your class will help you stay on top of material, and have someone to sit next to in lecture.
It’s difficult to introduce yourself to so many people in the first few weeks of school, but expanding your friend groups is key to having a successful college career. Good luck, and welcome to CU Boulder!