Many college students find themselves wanting or needing to transfer colleges at some point in their degree program. Maybe they don’t like their particular college. Perhaps they want to move closer to home. Or, maybe they have decided on another course of study that is not available at their current college. Trying to decide whether or not to transfer can be highly stressful. Instead of letting the decision overwhelm you, take some time to look at the big picture and to consider all factors before making a decision.

Academic Considerations

Have you decided on a major that is not available at your current college? Are the academics at your current school so rigorous that you are struggling or failing? Do you feel that you are a poor fit with the faculty or that the workload is way too much? Academics are the most important facet of attending college so they should be your first consideration when you are deciding whether or not to transfer. The ideal school is one that provides the degree you want, challenges you academically, and offers a great deal of support. If your needs aren’t being met by your current college, or if you aren’t being appropriately challenged by the academics, you should definitely consider a transfer.

Financial Considerations

Has your school had a significant tuition increase? Did you lose your financial assistance or scholarship? Has your financial situation changed dramatically for the worse? Problems like these can be some of the most difficult for college students. If you find yourself in financial trouble, don’t immediately think you have to transfer. First, try to budget yourself, get a job if you don’t already have one, and speak with the financial aid office. If none of these steps fixes your problem, you may need to consider a transfer.

Social Considerations

Is your campus unsafe? Is the social scene something you aren’t interested in? Are you having trouble finding and meeting like-minded people? If you don’t feel comfortable or safe on your campus within a reasonable amount of time, your college experience will be miserable. If you are unhappy or feel that you don’t fit well with your college’s culture, a transfer may be your best choice. Before you make the decision, however, take steps to see if you can be happy at your current college. Get out of your comfort zone and join in campus activities. Talk with some of you instructors. Make a real effort to meet new people. 

Before you jump in and make the decision to transfer to another college, make sure you do everything you can to make your current situation work. Even if things don’t work out, you will learn valuable problem solving and other life skills that will serve you throughout life. You will also have the satisfaction of knowing that you truly gave it your best shot. If things are still not right, then you can start looking for another school to which you can transfer to finish your education.

Albert Einstein is a writer for How2becomeapoliceofficer.com. To learn more about the police officer requirements, officer salary and more about this career, go to this site. It will greatly benefit you!