Looking to transfer, but where?

Transfer Students
1

<p>I am going into my junior year at a large, public university. I've considered transferring since I got here two years ago, but now I'm finally in the position to actually do so. (Although, looking back, I probably should have done so much earlier or just not attened like I originally planned.) I know it's a bit late in the game, but I really don't like it here and I am willing to be in school longer if that's what it takes. Unfortunately, I don't know where to apply. I've looked at some schools (namely Oberlin, Washington & Jefferson, Chatham, and Bethany), but what I could have possibly gotten in to in high school won't exactly work for me now. I'm currently a math/biology major, but I am switching to either Creative Writing, History, or something similar (Yay, cardboard box!), since I know that some of my problems have been me going for things that I don't necessarily enjoy (I love science, but apparently I don't love it enough). I am however considering a minor in Computer Science (I almost majored in it), so that I at least have something semi-useful to cushion me.</p>

<p>The type of school I'm hoping for is something small (I do much better in small classes and I get extremely anxious around large groups of people) with decent financial aid. I am going here for free (no loans), so if I have to take out something I guess I wouldn't be too crushed. I also would rather not go out west or to the south. I'm partial to New England (where I used to live), the Mid-Atlantic (where I am now and have been for awhile) minus Virginia, and Ohio. Public or private doesn't matter, provided that the departments I'm looking for are decent. I don't mind women's colleges. The college doesn't need to be in the city, but it would be nice if one is nearby. I am also a huge sucker for old, aesthetically pleasing buildings.</p>

<p>High School
3.7/4.0 GPA (I was convinced in 9th grade that people would like me better if I slacked off. Eh, not so much.), graduated in top 10.
29 ACT, didn't take SAT. (Would have taken it again, but it was too pricey.)
No AP classes (school didn't offer them), but took every "honors" course offered.
I also served as an assistant for a biology class and a physics class.
ECs: 4H (served as treasurer and song leader, received Charting Pin, did a crap ton of community service), Student Council (secretary for two years), National Honor Society, Yearbook (two years and Senior Editor), Newspaper (co-editor? A friend and I started it, but it was kind of a flop so I never really put it on applications.), Soccer/Swimming/Track (lettered in all three).</p>

<p>College
3.2/4.0 GPA? (Horrible, I know.)
Member of Collegiate 4H and Alpha Phi Omega (co-ed service fraternity). Two-time secretary and one-time 1st VP to APO. A crap ton of community service. Essay/short story published in university textbook.
As for recommendations, I'm looking to get one from an English professor that I was kinda close with (well, as close as professors and students get) and either an advisor from APO (who is also the dean of the Honors college), someone from 4H, or another professor.</p>

<p>As you can see, I haven't done too well in college. I had some (huge) adjustment problems when I got here (along the lines of crying nearly every night, constantly calling my mother, and only leaving my room for class - no, the university advisors/counselors weren't much help) and it took a little over a month to sort everything out. I also had some problems with changing my major, but that's all my fault so it doesn't really matter. (Nor do my slight family issues as they really aren't that substantial.) This summer I'm finishing up some GECs that I'm expecting to get As in, so that should help me some (I am also repeating a class next semester to get rid of a grade from a few semesters ago). I am also destined to get a B in any class that relies heavily on class participation (I've had three or four of those.)</p>

<p>Sorry if this is jumbled and confusing, I did have this written out much nicer for another community, but I can't seem to find it. Regardless, any help would be much appreciated.</p>

2

<p>So you would be applying as a senior? Most schools require you spend atleast 2 years there.</p>

3

<p>I’d apply for the spring. I already know that I will not be graduating in spring 2012 anyway, so somehow it seems like me being a junior matters less.</p>

4

<p>Well at the time I applied to Vandy, I had a 3.2ish and got in so its possible if you have a good essay. They also give great aid but it is in the south, if thats a problem.</p>

5

<p>I hate doing this.</p>

<p>Bump?</p>

6

<p>If you have any specific questions about Chatham, send me a pm. That’s my alma mater, class of 2008! </p>

<p>I loved Chatham but I will say it is not for everyone. It is very small, with only 500 undergrads. Class sizes of 10 students are common in upper-division courses. Most lower division classes are around 20 to 25 students with the exception of a few intro level science, math, and psychology courses (maybe upwards of 40). I went to Pitt as well and my statistics course had well over 200 students… I would say that’s common for large universities. I think Chatham is academically challenging and is highly regarded within Western Pennsylvania. All students (with the exception of those who are accepted into 5 years Master programs) are required to do an undergraduate thesis during their last two semesters. All students are also required to study abroad or take 2 semesters of a foreign language at the 200-level or above. You can take one course per semester at any other college in Pittsburgh at no extra charge! So if there’s an interesting course at Pitt or CMU, as long as the course isn’t full you can register for it and these courses can count towards your degree/major at Chatham. Also, Chatham is obviously a women’s college, making it an empowering and comfortable learning environment… Although it’s still not for everyone, it is a fantastic experience, one that is very different from your normal college experience.</p>

<p>Chatham is situated within the boundaries of Shadyside and Squirrel Hill which are affluent, safe, and BEAUTIFUL neighborhoods in Pittsburgh. Everything you need is within walking distance. The campus is GOREGOUS! The main building which houses the deans’ and president’s office is actually Andrew Mellon’s former residence. In fact the majority of the campus is comprised of mansions donated to the college from a number of historically wealthy families from Pittsburgh. It is only a 10 minute drive/bus ride from the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon campuses (or about a 20 to 30 minute walk). It is about a 20 minute bus ride into downtown Pittsburgh.</p>

<p>Chatham is generous with financial aid, but they do not offer full-ride scholarships. The most you can get in scholarship aid from Chatham is 14k per year (though this may have changed since I went there). Also, your academic record is pretty strong. A 3.2 in college is not bad! Remember that it’s not high school any more so a 3.2 in college isn’t the same as a 3.2 in high school. You will most definitely get accepted and will likely get some scholarship aid. I believe they meet nearly all of need based aid with the addition of grants and Stafford loans (but don’t quote me on this).</p>

<p>In terms of applying as a junior… you could still conceivably graduate in the spring of 2012. As stated in their course catalog… Students who transfer as juniors must complete 45 credits as well as more than half of their major requirements at Chatham. Since you that would be three semesters of at least 15 credits. You would also be required to do 2 Maymesters (an interim semester of 4 weeks where you take between 3 and 5 credits), study abroad (during a Maymester)/ 2 semesters of foreign language, 4 3-credit core courses (you may be able to get these courses waved if you’ve taken comparable liberal arts courses), and 2 consecutive semesters of tutorial (senior thesis). </p>

<p>As I said before, if you have any questions about Chatham shoot me a pm!!</p>

7

<p>I think your biggest issue will be getting the financial aid you need. The only schools that give major aid to transfers are the schools that meet 100% of need and all of those are etremely competitive top colleges. None of the schools mentioned above ould require smmall loans, they would require major debt (if you could even get the loans) if your parents can’t pay.</p>