Being a transfer can leave you feeling alone, depressed and angry. I find comfort in knowing that there are many other transfers at Towson besides myself, going through the same things. When I made the tough decision to transfer to Towson University, I thought it was for the best. Upon arrival to Towson and a few weeks into school, I felt unsure and depressed. I missed my friends from my old school, which made me feel alone. I would cry myself to sleep sometimes because I felt miserable, but then I came to a realization that I needed to make the best of my situation. Yes, transferring has proved to be more difficult than I imagined, but I created guidelines and set goals for myself so that I will start to enjoy Towson a little more every day. I decided to share some of these guidelines because it may help those of you who are finding it a hard to adjust. Enjoy!
1. Get involved: I cannot stress this enough. Whether you want to join a sorority, a club, or a sport, Towson (and other schools) offers amazing opportunities to get involved. You meet people with similar interests and passions, and develop and expand passions of your own.
2. Talk to people in your classes: Whether it is the cute boy or girl in your class, or just someone you are sitting next to, just strike a conversation. The worst they could do is not say anything back. By taking the initiative to talk to someone, you open the door for creating strong friendships.
3. Make friends with other transfers: Us Transfers have got to stick together! Check out the Transfer Student Organization to meet other transfers. Try to go to campus-run programs for transfers as well to connect to those going through the same situations.
4. Experiment: Do things outside of your comfort zone. Whether it be telling someone you like their shoes, going to the gym, or doing anything that is outside of your element, it will help you create memorable experiences and you may find things you like, creating friendships along the way.
5. Make the initiative to hang out with people: Invite a friend to lunch on campus. Taking the initiative to hang out with people can help create long lasting friendships. Don’t be scared to invite someone you just met to get Starbucks, or food in the dining hall.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Do not be afraid to ask a fellow classmate for help adjusting to your new school. They know the ropes by now, and can help you in more way than one.
7. Make the best of your classes: Remember participation is key in classes. When you participate you start to enjoy the class more, and gain a better understanding. Don’t be overwhelmed with transferring and not do well in your classes. It is important for your future to succeed.
8. Make friends with the people on your floor: If you live in a dorm, try to meet everyone living on your floor. It’s easy to hangout and meet new people this way.
9. Make goals for yourself: Making daily goals for yourself in order to succeed in classes and social life will help you adjust. Make goals such as “Make a new friend,” “Have lunch on a new part of campus,” “Create a study group for classes,” or “Join a club that interests me.”
10. Stay Strong: Remember that everything will turn out okay. It is okay to be scared and unsure of your choice to transfer. If it takes you longer to adjust, that’s okay. Try to make the best of your situation as it will start to get better. It isn’t easy, but with hard work and dedication you can do it.
Good Luck!