Four Signs That It's Time to Transfer

Last Tuesday, as I walked around the campus of my new school, University of Southern California, I thought to myself: What brought me here? Why did I so desperately yearn to leave my old school in favor of USC? Everyone has different college experiences. While some people go to their college and fall in love, others may feel like there is something missing. If you feel unsatisfied with your current school, than transferring could be the right choice for you. However, transferring schools is a huge step and a lot of factors must be considered.  As a transfer student myself I hope the following list helps guide you in your decision as to whether or not you should stay or go.     

1. Your major is not available at your current school and/or you want an academic upgrade

Often times, students go into college thinking they want to be one major but end up graduating with another. For example, say a student chose a liberal arts college in hopes of pursuing an enriching universal education. However, maybe mid-freshmen year they discover that they are highly interested in business. Staying at a liberal arts college may not be the best choice for them and transferring to a school with an actual business program would probably be the best choice. 

2. You still have a strong desire to go to your first choice school

Honestly, this is probably the primary reason why I transferred. Ever since I could remember, I wanted to go to USC. When I went to my previous university, I kept hoping it would become my dream school. But deep down my desire to attend USC still lingered. 

3. Tuition becomes a financial struggle

During a time of economic downtown and rising tuition costs, finding the means to pay for college has become a struggle for most families. If you don't want to put on a financial burden on your parents consider transferring to a state or public school school. Many public schools such as UC Berkeley and University of Texas-Austin offer a fine education for a much lower cost. 

4. The social atmosphere is not what you hoped for

So maybe you arrived at your current school and while the academics are fantastic, the weekends leave a lot to be desired. Or maybe it’s opposite for you.  Maybe you can’t stand it when you’re trying to study but other students are drunkenly screaming outside your dorm seven days a week. College is not all about academics, nor is it all about partying. If you continue to struggle to find the right group of friends, transferring could be an option. You should be having a good time at college -- being unhappy with your social life may affect your overall outcome.

I hope that my guide has helped you in making this important decision.  Transferring requires a lot of consideration and thought. Don’t be afraid to go with your instinct. After all, college should be one of the best times of your life.

-- By Nicole Stockdale, University of Southern California