Surviving after transferring

<p>Alright, so I was accepted to Stony Brook University and unless something completely random and tragic happens, I'll be going there next spring. </p>

<p>I was wondering though if people who have already transferred want to share any stories or whatever about life after the transfer. I've heard in some cases that a lot of the students in post-transfer schools don't tend to look at transfers in a good light. </p>

<p>I think the biggest problem for me won't be the academics post-transfer but the social life. At my old school (Clarkson University) I wasn't as social as I should've been and for the most part, the only friends I made in 2 years there were people from my freshman dorm floor and people I would play pick-up basketball with. I never got into the drinking/party scene there (a large part of that was because there was barely any party scenes to begin with, but whatever) for...well...I don't even know. </p>

<p>But whatever, that's over with. Anyone want to give tips to a loser? =D</p>

<p>bumpity…</p>

<p>Anything?..</p>

<p>You need to find out if Stony Brook has any special programs for transfer students. Most universities have special transfer orientations, and some have continuing activities throughout the year for transfers. If that kind of program is offered, go to each and every event. You will meet other transfers who are sharing some of your experiences, and you can support each other through the transition to the new institution.</p>

<p>If there are no special programs for transfers, then take advantage of activities organized by your department, your residence (if you live on campus), your on-campus or off-campus workplace, and any organization that appeals to you. I know transfers who met half the student body at their universities because they worked the security desk at the library or at the campus recreation center.</p>

<p>As happymomof1 said above, find out if there are any clubs for transfer students. There usually is.</p>

<p>But aside from that, why so concerned about fitting in. I see that a lot around that forum, and I think people need to get out of that mentality. I went through that when I was in high school, as I moved to another country, and at that time, it was understandable.</p>

<p>In college, it’s different. You don’t really have those groups anymore (well, not as much as in high school). You will find friends there, don’t worry.</p>