Being a transfer does not mean you’re any less intelligent. Sure, you may have taken an unconventional route, but the skills you possess have been recognized and sought after.
I know it’s hard adjusting to a new environment, but don’t forget to give yourself time to adapt. I, too, am going through the transition now and have already faced my fair share of ups and downs. I’ve freaked out and added unnecessary stress when all I could’ve and should’ve done was simply breathe. If you ever feel out of place or lost, just know that you belong here. I truly believe that one of the biggest ways you can grow is through change, so try to see this as a positive thing!
I really recommend allocating time for yourself every week to relax—at least bi-weekly if you really can’t find the time, or if you’re like me and you can’t seem to justify putting away the books just for a few minutes of me-time. Trust me, you’ll need it. Remind yourself that in just a few weeks, you’ll be better adjusted to the system.
I don’t know about you, but my biggest concerns coming in as a transfer: Will I fall behind academically and socially?
What I realized at the end of the day, cliche as it may sound, is that no matter where you are, effort and time management are key. Sure, the thought of upper-division classes and being in a new environment may not sound very enticing to some, but academic success will inevitably come if you make the conscious effort to work hard. If you’re reading this, do not procrastinate! I have found this to be the simplest but most effective advice, and this is coming from someone who is highly skilled in the art of procrastination. Do also take note of your professors’ office hours and clarify anything you don’t understand with them. You could very well also schedule an appointment just to talk to your professor and network; this can be especially useful if you need letters of recommendations in the future.
Study smarter, not harder. Recognize the places and the kind of environment you study the best in. For me, I find that I’m more productive when I surround myself with people who are also studying, so the library and cafes are my go-to study spots. I personally really love the Reading Room in the Charles E.Young Library and occasionally the Powell Library (when I manage to find a seat). Taking quick study breaks in between also really helps me. I take away a lot more when I give myself a set time to study till. I also try to start my study session with a goal, and make sure I see to it. Other tips I have for you would be to test yourself, ask your friends to study with you so that you can test (and perhaps even teach) them, as that is the best way to learn. And always keep your phones far away!
Now, onto the fun part: maintaining and managing your social life as a transfer. I consider myself really lucky to have been placed with two amazing roommates who have been so welcoming and have showed and taught me everything I needed to know, but I understand that this might not be the case for everyone. Consider joining a club or an organization! You have to put yourself out there. Because you’re coming into the school as a junior, you’re going to find yourself feeling as lost as a freshman. The beauty of joining a club and/or organization is that you’ll get to meet people of all ages and of different majors—you’ll find your group of friends in no time! I personally joined a sorority and am part of the Her Campus team, and I have absolutely no regrets and am so excited for what’s to come in the future! There are over a 1,000 clubs and organizations here at UCLA, and I’m positive you’ll find something you like. You have nothing to lose, but everything to gain!
Don’t doubt yourself: you’re at the right place, and it is the right time. Introvert or extrovert, if you ever feel like you need to reach out to someone, UCLA has many resources for us students (i.e. for current and prospective transfer students and even commuters, plus resources in housing, financial aid, academics and health and wellness). If you haven’t already checked out the Transfer Student Center, you really should! They have many events planned just for us transfers, and you could even get involved if you wanted to.
Soldier on, my loves!