<p>Freshman year at my college didn't go quite as I expected. The first month was great, but then it went downhill throughout the year. I didn't make any friends and didn't go out at all. I did, however, really try to make friends and go out etc, but nothing worked. I joined clubs, etc, and made an effort. The school also didn't feel right. I wasn't a fan of the campus, etc. My anxiety also got worse and became a little depressed.</p>
<p>Now I'm a sophomore, I'm really not liking the school and I'm just really confused. I have been looking at other schools, but I just get super overwhelmed. I'm also not sure on my major, making transferring more stressful. My school is also on the quarter system (only take 3 classes per quarter), so transferring to a semester school in the spring will probably make me behind schedule, but I also don't want to wait until fall. The only good thing about my school is that it's easier to change majors, and I'm afraid if I transfer, I won't be able to change. I'm also on a good scholarship at this school. The problem is that I'm not happy and the school just isn't right for me.</p>
<p>Should I transfer? If so, should I transfer in the spring or next fall? Or should I stick with it for four years? I don't know what to do...</p>
<p>Quarters won’t put you too far behind. I went from semesters to quarters and back to semesters… series of classes (like Physics 1-4) will mess you up the most, since they might not line up nicely. So, finish those up at your current school if you can. If not you may have to retake one. For other classes, it shouldn’t be an issue. In terms of number of credits you have you’ll need to do some quick math, semester credits = 2/3 * quarter units, assuming students typically take 45 quarter credits per year. If it turns out you are a little bit behind, you could also take a class or two over the summer to catch up.</p>
<p>Not all schools take spring transfers, double check the ones you’re interested in to see if it’s possible. If you really really want to get away from your current school you could do a couple terms at a local community college, but those tend to be pretty dead socially.</p>
<p>Major changes depends… by the time you’re a junior, it’s kind of expected that you’ll start taking upper division courses for your major. If you’re not interested in impacted/competitive majors, you might be allowed to change majors, but that can set you back quite a bit if you’re changing in the middle of your third/fourth year.</p>
<p>As for if you should, step back and decide whether or not being at a different school will fix your problems. If your problems are making friends, is that a result of the school itself, or is it something about you that needs to change? If you’re going to go through the trouble of transferring, think about if it will solve your problems, or if your problems will follow you regardless of which school you’re at.</p>
<p>I just think that if you transfer is should be for an academic reason. Not for a lack of friends reason. Do you have anyone in classes or anywhere else on campus that you find yourself talking to quite often?</p>
<p>You can transfer for social reasons, but just know, it’s difficult being a transfer. However, the fresh start is usually encouraging and new environment might push you. Just think very hard about your decision and don’t be afraid (if you can afford it) to hire a college counselor. They’re usually very good about placing high school seniors in schools they love. Apply to a myriad of schools and take the time to visit them. I know it’s hard when you’re in college, but I didn’t do that (I am a transfer) and I regret it.</p>