Sometimes, the college or university you chose isn't what you expected or what you need. Perhaps the school doesn't offer a program or major that interests you, or maybe you just don't feel comfortable on this particular college campus. Or, in many cases, the price of attending a school becomes prohibitively expensive.
Whatever your reasons for considering a transfer, take the time to think them through. Transferring is a big decision financially, academically, and emotionally. As you weigh your decision, here are some factors to keep in mind.
Financial Considerations
If you can no longer afford your school, transferring may be the only choice. However, explore your options before making your decision. Let the financial aid office know that you may need to transfer because of your financial situation. They may be able to help you, especially if you are fairly close to graduation. Private colleges are accustomed to financial crises and may have some funds set aside for emergencies. In addition, spend some time searching for college scholarships, as this may expand your options.
In some cases, a student can afford tuition-- but only by working excessive hours at a part time job or by taking out thousands of dollars worth of loans. If this is the case, you may want to ask yourself if your education is worth this price. If it's not, a transfer to a less expensive school may be what you need.
Transferring Credits
One of the biggest problems faced by transfer students is that college credits often do not transfer from school to school. Similarly, a class that counted towards your major at one school does not count towards the major at the new school. This may not be a big concern if you are a freshman, but the longer you've been in school, the more likely it is that you will lose a significant amount of credits. This can mean extra semesters or years in school, which can be expensive and frustrating.
Before your transfer, do your homework. Talk to the transfer student office at your new school and find out exactly what will transfer and what will not. Weigh this information carefully before making your decision. in addition, if you know early on that you might want to transfer, take basic classes that transfer easily from school to school, such as general psychology or public speaking. Lower level classes generally transfer more easily than upper level classes.
Academic Considerations
Some students transfer because their school does not offer a program or major that interests them. If you find yourself in this situation, do your homework before you transfer. Find out as much as you can about the program at other schools, including any admission requirements. As much as possible, make sure this is what you really want to study.
In some cases, students transfer because they are unhappy with the academic environment in their school. It may be too rigorous, or not rigorous enough, or too competitive. If this is the case, investigate the academic environment at other schools carefully to make sure you don't wind up at another place that doesn't suit your needs. In addition, meet with an academic counselor at your current school to discuss your situation and see if there are options on campus that might make you more happy.
Sometimes students transfer because they are in a danger of flunking out. Often a new start at a new school may be just what a student needs. However, if you're in this situation, be sure to meet with academic advisors at your current school to discuss your options. Staying might be more of an option than you thought.
Geographic Considerations
Some students transfer because they just aren't happy with where the school is located. In many cases, this is because of homesickness. If this is the case, give your situation at least a semester before making the decision to leave. Many students just need some time to get adjusted, so try sticking it out.
Other students consider a transfer because of a romantic relationship back home or elsewhere. Long distance relationships are difficult. However, proceed with caution before making this decision. If the relationship doesn't last, you may be stuck.
"Fit" Considerations
Sometimes a school just doesn't feel like the right place. If this is the case, transferring might be the right choice, but do your homework first. Investigate other schools carefully to find a better fit. And give your school a chance before you leave. Meet with an academic or psychological counselor to help talk out your decision.
Remember, transferring to a new school is a big chance, so weigh your options with care. Best of luck with your decision!
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