I want to transfer after my first semester of college?

College Confidential Community
1

Here is the down low:
I just graduated high school last spring, and instead of choosing to enroll in the community college in my hometown, I’m currently attending a four-year university in the next state over, roughly 200-something miles away from home. I have been here for a little bit over a month, and it pains me to say that I’m strongly considering transferring out. The school is beautiful and lively and my academics are pretty solid right now, but I’ve been aching with severe homesickness ever since day one; I even find myself fighting back tears as I write this post.

I feel stupid for choosing a school so far from home that’s costing me thousands and thousands of dollars when I had a perfectly fine option to get my associates at the community college in my town before transferring to a four-year uni to finish my degree, as many many others from my high school have done to save money. I’ve been so hung up on this that I find it hard to really connect with anyone here as everyone else seems to absolutely love it here (I’m generally a very outgoing and social person as well). All I can is think about all the opportunities I missed by leaving home (such as being with all my close friends, being able to keep my job in my hometown, saving thousands of dollars). I’ve only been here a month, and I’m really considering leaving because I feel like I can’t bear to waste anymore time and money on hoping that college will turn out to be anything like it’s glamorized to be.

any advice? should I stick it out for the rest of the year or just leave after first semester?

2

First of all, hugs to you OP. It’s tough…I worked overseas for awhile and I remember the ache and heartbreak of that first month…i have never before (or since) felt so utterly alone. It’s hard to describe unless you’ve been through it.

Then I’d add that being homesick – missing friends and family – is not a bad thing …it shows that you’ve made close friends and ties in your life.

That said, I truly think the first 8 weeks are the hardest…by far…if you transferred back, you might be writing a letter right now along the lines of “why didn’t I take chances with my life? I have such regrets.” Give yourself until Christmas…see how you feel after you’ve gone home for the holidays.

3

Keep in mind that back in your hometown your friends may be away at college, working full time or in the military. The life you had in high school is not likely there anymore.