I am finishing up my first semester at Northeastern University (after studying abroad first semester). Overall, the school feels overwhelmingly large, and I’m just not connecting with anything academically, socially, or extracurricularly. I’ve tried joining clubs, but I don’t find them extremely interesting nor do people seem as passionate ahout them. Only the creative clubs such as acting, broadcasting, photography, etc. seem have a strong community feel, and I’ve focused more on academic, community service, and active/outdoors clubs. My professors haven’t been engaging this semester, and I don’t even find myself interested in my major with the classes I’m in (psychology with a neuroscience minor). Academically my classes are not challenging whatsoever (besides one). I absolutely love the atmosphere of Boston, the diversity of the student body, and the co-op opportunities Northeastern has, but it’s been difficult being at a school that feels so isolating, especially due to the independent nature of the student body (which I thought I would love.)
Ultimately I’m wondering if I should seriously consider transferring to the fall, or giving Northeastern more of a chance. I’ve thought of transferring closer to home in the Southeast, but I am not sure if it’s because I’ve come to the realization I want to be closer to home, or if it is because I just feel so “not at home” at Northeastern. If I transferred schools, I’d want a slightly smaller school that still is diverse, one that is on the liberal side or is politically equal, doesn’t have a heavy focus on the going out party/ Greek life scene, and one where students feel like they can build strong academic/career and social connections on campus. I think I’d also like to still be near a lively city with a lot going on. (I almost went to Wake Forest, but Winston Salem didn’t have enough for me. I’m currently considering Vanderbilt because I do like Nashville and the Peabody College is amazing, but I’m not sure if the majority of the student population/campus culture fits what I’m looking for.
Do these sound like valid reasons to transfer or should I give Northeastern more of a chance? What schools should I consider if I do transfer? (Even the first time around I wasn’t sure if I found a college in my search that was the perfect right fit, and I had trouble deciding.)