Transfering to a new university can feel intimidating. You have previous experience but still need to learn how to navigate a new school.
We asked transfer students what they wish they would have known to make their transition to CU easier and more memorable. Here are some lessons they learned to help start your semester strong.
Making friends
There is no doubt making friends can take some time, especially during a pandemic. Still, transfer students have learned that it’s about not being afraid to get involved and try something new to find your people.
“When I joined the CU helpline, that is when I found my group of people.” - Noreen
“I knew I had to be sociable, let go of my fear and join a student organization. I wanted to find my people.”- Alexa
“Networking and finding your community doesn’t have to be just on campus; you can get involved and meet people outside of the university.”- Klara
“I wish I would have gotten involved my first semester of transferring instead of my fourth semester.” Samantha
Many of your friendships will come from getting involved, so don’t be afraid to go and seek new opportunities because you never know who you’ll meet along the way.
Making CU your home
Depending on where you are transferring from or if it’s your first time on a college campus, making this place your home can take some time.
“When you get to a big university and are a very noticeable minority it can feel isolating and scary...but once I found my community, campus didn’t seem so big anymore.” - Samantha
“Being in communities on campus with people that looked like me and understood my background made for a smoother transition...I didn’t feel left out.” - Areli
“You are not alone—there are others feeling the same way.” - Samanta
“I wish I would have not let myself be intimidated by being the only girl in my geophysics class.” - Sara
The best way to make campus your home is to find the people and places that make you feel safe and comfortable. Finding a community to reduce the intimidation of a huge university and just make it your own campus space—that’s what’s important.
Finding resources
With so much information being given to you as a transfer student, it can feel overwhelming. But seeking out resources and asking for help is exactly what you should do.
“Having resources available for my needs gave me the confidence to know that I was going to be okay.” - Cynthia
“I felt like I was put in a category where I’m supposed to know everything and exactly how to get to where I want to be (major wise) and reality is I didn’t. But, having resources fully available helped pave the way to feel more calm about my transition to CU.” - Sara
“I wish I would have joined an activity way sooner. I would utilize the resources on campus that are free way more.” - Noreen
“I wish I would have done my research and search for the opportunities that I would have wanted to be a part of academically and socially.” - Alexa
“It’s not just about learning and knowing of the ways you can get help, but also about intentionally seeking those resources when you need them.” - Areli
Transfering to a new university can feel intimidating, but there are lessons to be learned from those that have done it before you. You have all the support to succeed at your disposal! Here are some resources to get you started:
- Join a student organization or club
- Check out student events
- Make a difference with CU Student Government
- Get involved with the Cultural Events Board
- Be part of the team through intramural or club sports
- Explore opportunities within fraternity and sorority life
- Meet other Buffs through the Center for Inclusion and Social Change
- Volunteer, intern or work on campus
Visit the Student Affairs website for more information about student life at CU and be sure to follow us on social media @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!