Sometimes, life is about making choices that seem right initially, only to realize later that they aren’t the perfect fit. Transferring colleges is all about recognizing when something isn’t the right fit and finding where you truly belong, and that’s totally okay! While transferring might seem daunting, it’s actually a great opportunity to realign with your goals, discover new places, and meet amazing people. As a transfer student, I was very nervous about starting from scratch, but it was the best decision I have ever made! Here are a few reasons why transferring can be one of the best decisions you ever make:
1. A Fresh Start
Maybe your first school wasn’t what you expected, and that’s alright! Transferring gives you a clean slate, a chance to embrace new experiences, classes, and friendships without the pressure of past choices weighing you down. At a new school, you can reinvent yourself and put your best foot forward.
2. Finding Your People
Starting at a new school can seem very intimidating, it may seem as though everyone already has their set of friends, and you’re behind. Getting involved in your school, outside of classes, is the best way to meet new people. It may seem scary, but a lifelong friendship might be right around the corner!
3. New Adventures Await
A new campus means fresh scenery, hidden coffee shop gems, and exciting traditions to be part of. Getting to experience the culture of Ann Arbor has been one of my favorite parts of coming to U of M. Getting onto a new campus gives you endless opportunities to try new food, stores and get involved in new traditions. Embracing the culture of Michigan by going to sports games, joining student clubs, or just wearing Michigan merch are some of the best parts of being a wolverine!
4. Learning to Embrace Change
There’s something extremely empowering about taking charge of your happiness. By transferring, you’re proving to yourself that you value your own growth and well being—and that’s a life skill that goes far beyond college. Change can be intimidating, but it also opens the door to new opportunities, friendships, and experiences that you might have never encountered otherwise. Stepping outside of your comfort zone allows you to discover strengths you didn’t know you had and helps you build resilience for the future. Every challenge you overcome makes you a more confident, adaptable person, ready to take on whatever comes next.
At the end of the day, transferring colleges isn’t about giving up—it’s about growing, adapting, and finding the place that truly feels like home. So if you’re new to the school, take it as an opportunity to better yourself and explore all your opportunities!