When I first transferred to TCNJ, I felt completely overwhelmed. Even though I was an upperclassman, I felt about as clueless as a freshman. Since there isn’t a “Welcome Week” for transfer students, I had to figure a few things out on my own. But have no fear! I survived my first month at TCNJ and now I feel right at home. Here are some tips every transfer should know!
1. How to Spot a Freshman
There are two telltale signs that identify freshman students; they wear their TCNJ IDs around their necks and travel in packs. A bit of advice for transfer students, keep your ID in your pocket so you aren’t mistaken for a freshman.
2. Learn the Lingo
During my first week at TCNJ, I kept hearing students speak in a cryptic code. I felt like I had walked into a Dan Brown novel. To save you the confusion, I’ve cracked the Da Vinci code and listed some common TCNJ lingo.
Stud = Brower Student Center
Rat = Ratskeller
Eick = Eickhoff
Lib = Library
C-Store = Convenience Store
Ok, they’re not that difficult, but they can be confusing when someone throws it into conversation!
3. Map on Hand
I remember when I first visited TCNJ and fell in love with the classic Georgian Colonial style architecture. Well, as it turns out all the beautiful brick buildings look the same! I can’t tell you how many times I got lost that first week. The good news is, once you get lost somewhere, it helps you remember for next time. Just print a campus map from the TCNJ website to keep in your backpack. Also, don’t be afraid to go up to people and ask them for directions – TCNJ students are incredibly friendly! You’ll learn your way around soon enough, I promise.
4. Get Involved
I found that the best way to adapt to a new school is to get involved as soon as possible, so good thing TCNJ has a club for everyone! Joining a club is a great way to meet students with similar interests. Pick a few clubs that interest you and go to their weekly meetings. If a leadership position opens up, don’t let being a transfer hold you back. It can’t hurt to go for it!
5. Seize the Day
Transferring to a new school gives you an incredible opportunity to start over. Whether you graduated from community college or transferred from another four-year school, you have been given a fresh start. Make the most of your time at TCNJ by challenging yourself and seeking new and exciting opportunities. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try a new sport, intern at your favorite radio station, or study abroad in France – well, this is the time to do those things! TCNJ offers its students endless opportunities, but it is up to you to take advantage of them. Make sure you get the best college experience possible!