<p>I'm a freshman at James Madison University and after a month I know I need to transfer. I think want to transfer to UVA, and was wait-listed as a freshman applicant last spring.</p>
<p>I am entirely capable of getting into UVA, and think that on an academic level, it's where I belong. JMU is a nice school, but it just isn't for me, the environment simply lacks the emphasis on academics that I am looking for and it doesn't seem like very much of the student body really values intelligence.</p>
<p>Today I was talking with one of my professors who basically told me that I could find other smart people here if I really looked. I don't think I want to have to do detective work to come across those kinds of people.</p>
<p>But still, I have a lot of fun and have made a lot of great friends who I want to be able to explain my situation to. I haven't said anything yet because I assume most people will consider me snobbish. </p>
<p>What would be the best way for me to go about explaining to the people I'm going to be living with for the next 6 months that I want to leave?</p>
<p>You don't have to give them the specific reason that you're leaving, "guys, you're too dumb for me." - Just say you're not entirely happy at that school now and you're thinking of transferring after this school year. That's pretty much what I did, though I waited till toward the end of my semester to tell them after everything was settled and I knew for sure I was leaving. If they're really friends they'll more than likely respect your decision, and I'm sure you'll continue to keep in touch with them even after you've left.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
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I haven't said anything yet because I assume most people will consider me snobbish
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<p>You would be surprised. At my first college I was fairly active in some organizations and became close with professors and I was nervous about telling them I had considered leaving. However...that spring when I learned I would be transferring to Cornell and told them...they all said (including my swim team coach) "that doesn't surprise me. We didn't think you'd be here long anyway...you're too smart for us." </p>
<p>I still talk to some of those people today...so don't worry too much.</p>
<p>My D just transferred (for some of the same reasons) and she's going back to see her friends at her old school for Thanksgiving break! People will understand that you need to find a school that's right for you. That said, there's no real need to talk to them about it now, as you won't find out until May if you're accepted somewhere and actually leaving. Anyway it's early, you may yet find your "people". Good luck!</p>
<p>My D also transferred & has found a more appropriate academic environment. She is thrilled to be host to some friends from her old school this weekend! People understand. If you just tell them that you are really interested in some of the things that School X seems to offer, that's enough explanation. You don't need to go into what your current school lacks.</p>