As I’m wrapping up my first year as a transfer student at Virginia Tech, I thought it would be a good idea to reflect on not only how it went, but what I wish that I did differently.
Reflection is a good idea whether you are a transfer student or not. We only have so many years at this amazing school, so it’s best to make sure that you are getting the absolute most out of it!
First things first, I wish that I spent more time on campus. When I first got into the flow of attending classes here, I often would just take the bus to class, then go back to my apartment once it ended. Now this is definitely personal preference, but I know for a fact that I am more productive on campus when I’m around other hard-working people.
Virginia Tech’s campus is so beautiful, and sadly, I am rarely ever on it. I’ll definitely try to make use of it more next year, whether that be at the library, or just finding a cozy spot to eat and study. If you are a transfer student like me and missed out on the dorm life here, I recommend taking the time to explore the campus and all it has to offer.
One thing that I did this year that that I am for sure going to do again is to go to sporting events. I went to almost every football and basketball game this year and it was amazing! I know it sounds dumb, but it’s what finally made me feel like a Hokie. If you are a transfer student, attending a couple of sporting events here is a great way to join in and get a feel of the Hokie spirit that you may or may not not feel yet.
Another thing that I wish I did differently is to utilize my opportunities here. Virginia Tech has so many outstanding organizations and clubs to join, and although I am apart of a few, I don’t feel that I’m using all it has to offer me.
Next year I am going to try to join other things that I am interested in, as well as reach out to professors and TA’s more. As a transfer student, it’s easy to feel lost and confused as to how to get started, and clubs and organizations are honestly such an amazing way to get involved and meet new people.
Transfer students often just get thrown in with everyone else, and don’t get all of the guidance and experience on campus that typical students at Tech do. I know it took me a few weeks here to finally get acclimated and figure it all out.
It’s important to ask for help when you need it, and make sure that your experience at Virginia Tech is everything you want it to be. It might be a huge campus, but getting help and figuring out your priorities will help make your experience as a transfer student a lot less overwhelming.
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