<p>My D just transferred into UVA a spring transfer. I think she is pretty lonely. I know it will take some time to make friends. Any ideas on speeding the process up?</p>
<p>Board Games! I know it sounds corney but there is nothing like a good round of Apples to Apples or Cranium to break the ice. She should talk to her RA to work out the logistics. She can put a general invite somewhere where everyone can see it then maybe you could send her a few extra bucks for popcorn and soda. Some people will think it's silly and they won't come but I bet she'll have a great turnout. They can play in the lounge to accomodate a crowd and other people can bring thier games too. Twister is always fun and spoons is too. Humans need to play and as we get older and caught up in the dailiness of life we forget how much fun it is. She'll become known as "Julie" that girl who hosted that great game night and it will just get easier from there. </p>
<p>As the mom of two very quiet girls I empathize with your worries. Good Luck!</p>
<p>Ooh, you might want to post this in the UVA forum as well, I happened to see it by accident browsing through the parents forum. I'd advise her to join a smattering of clubs across the board. Some ethnic organization (not limited to those of that ethnicity! Besides, folks will be curious about the latest person to join and will want to know about her), service organization (Madison House!), fun organization (depending on her interests), and then there's always spring informal recruitment for sororities if she wants to consider Greek life.</p>
<p>My S is a 2nd year at UVA. As a non-Greek, he finds the outdoor club to be a good source for socialization. They have something going on all the time, but trips fill up fast so she needs to sign up early. He also likes the club sports, many of which - like water polo - seem to be co-ed.</p>
<p>This is a big reason why I think all the transfer talk is taken much to lightly. Transfers typically are not as happy at their new school either and are chasing a dream that might not exist. Unless it is for serious academic reasons you should not think transferring will be some cure all.</p>
<p>Thanks so much to all for all the helpful suggestions. Barrons, what you say about transferring is true. My D did in fact transfer for serious academic reasons. She loves UVA academically so the choice was a good one..The social life is something she have to tackle next.</p>