<p>I'm a sophomore at a top LAC and I want to transfer. I'm moderately happy here but the main reason I chose my school was for a specific major, which after doing for almost a semester now, I've realized is not for me. Since it is ultimately what motivated my matriculation here, there seems to be very little keeping me here and it doesn't help that my family is paying nearly $60k for me to have a mediocre experience. I just don't think that this place is worth the money (and we won't qualify for fin. aid).</p>
<p>I'm looking to transfer to either Brown, Columbia or NYU. I have a 3.83 gpa here and I am in one of the most academically demanding programs offered and already have two great faculty recommendations. I also have excellent high school stats and extracurriculars. I had applied to transfer to a couple of schools for this spring - and got accepted (along with great merit packages) but none of the schools will take any of this semester's credits (because of the specificity of my major here, apparently). Since I'd have to essentially repeat a semester, the value of the merit scholarships is quite marginal. </p>
<p>So, here's my question: How will taking the spring semester off be received by other schools? At least at my LAC there is a certain stigma attached to taking a leave of absence and I do not want my decision to jeopardize any chance I have at other schools. I would be travelling and doing volunteer work and then coming home and getting a job for the remainder of my leave. </p>
<p>My rationale for taking the semester off is two-fold: the demanding nature of my major has alienated me from most of my friends (all I have time to do is read) and from myself. I just dont really feel passionate or excited about anything anymore. To be clear, I am not put off by the rigorous academics - the courses within the major just dont interest me. I really want a demanding academic experience, just in subject material I actually enjoy). Also, it seems stupid to spend another $30k for another mediocre semester (I'd be changing majors, but haven't gotten into any classes that interest me). Given what I know now (that most likely this semester's classes wont get me credit at other schools), I think it makes more sense to start in the fall - it'd be a better time to socially acclimatize to my new surroundings - as a first semester sophomore. On the flip-side, I could easily stay here and try to make the best of the situation and apply to transfer for the fall. </p>
<p>I only have a few days to decide what to do and I'd really appreciate any feedback! I'm so confused (as you could probably tell by the long ramble that is my post).</p>