Is It Time To Transfer To A Different University?

Making a final decision about which high educational institution to attend can be very stressful, but most of us feel we went in the right direction once we get started. But what if you start to have some misgivings after you're knee-deep in the college experience? How do you know if your inkling to transfer is just a passing whim or a bolt of inspiration? Well, only you can make the final call, but this bit of advice (from someone who did transfer universities) may help.

There are countless factors that may be underlying your desire for a change, so examine them carefully. Many college freshmen feel overwhelmed soon after arriving at a college that is far from their family members and high school companions. Homesickness can drive them to return home to attend a community college or state-sponsored school within commuting distance of home.

Homesickness is a legitimate complaint, but part of the enrichment of your higher education is pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone. Do your best to get involved in university activities right away in order to make new friends and find an expanded comfort zone in your new environment.

Many students change their major at least one during the course of their undergraduate studies. If you have an epiphany about your future, then you may think your current university's program in that department is not quite up to the standard you deserve. This can also happen if budget cuts put your major on the chopping block, in which case a transfer would be necessary to pursue your passion.

Every educational institution has its own values and an accompanying atmosphere. One of the reasons I left my first university was that its apparent moral center was pointing in a different direction than mine was.

My religion was always at the center of my life, so when I started investigating transfer options, I decided to consider Christian colleges in Maryland, in Texas, and in Utah. Making the change allowed me to find my niche with like-minded people, which was a great relief as I maintained my conservative lifestyle.

Innumerable high school graduates transition without much thought into the nearest public university and get lost among the faces. While some self-motivated students flourish in an independent learning environment, other bright minds dim without personalized attention.

Do you crave personalized attention and teaching that caters to your learning style? Then switching to a private school may be the right maneuver for you. Almost all private institutions are more expensive, so consider financial options carefully, but it may be worth it.

Don't make any rash decisions. Talk to your advisor, talk to your parents, and think it over. There's no need to rush through your education, after all. But this experience is meant to be enriching. If you don't feel like you're growing as a person, it's probably time to move on.