Hi, I’m going to be a college freshman next year and will be moving into my dorm in a few weeks, but there’s one problem: I don’t like the school. My parents forced me to go to a state school because I’m going in undecided. When I went to orientation, everything felt so wrong about the school, and I’m honestly humiliated to be going there because my friends are all going to their dream colleges, and the ones younger than me are starting to go on visits to prestigious colleges and are loving them (which stinks because I was accepted into some of those colleges but had to turn them down). I looked into possibly transferring but I don’t know if there’s enough aid, or if I can get scholarships back if I transfer to a school that previously offered me aide as an incoming freshman. I’m already self conscious about not knowing what I want to do with my life, so being self conscious about my school “choice” doesn’t help either. Any advice??
You can make yourself miserable by comparing and focusing on what others are doing. I think your parents have made a wise decision and keeping the costs down will give you more freedom in school and after. Many students are undecided; that’s why the option exist. Others change their majors once they get started. Those dream school can become a nightmare, to the point that I hate the idea of a “dream school”. The dream is going to an affordable school, finding something you like, getting your degree, and making your way in life.
It sounds like your school is large and you will not have to see people from your high school unless you want to. I’m sure at least eight people from my high school went to my college in my home town. My roommate and I had one core class together because we coordinated. I only had one class in four years undergrad and 2.5 yrs of grad school with someone else I knew.
You should focus on being a part of the school you will be attending. make your mark and participate. If you end up wanting to transfer, you are going to need good grades. Better yet, go to the other school for your graduate degree.
You, and not your college, will determine your happiness and success. Since the decision already has been made- at least for now- go in with a good attitude and make the most of it. Fully commit.
Transfer in the future is possible, but why not allow yourself to have a good experience in the meantime? You may end up not wanting to transfer!
Yes, it’s not WHERE you go to school, it’s HOW you go to school. Be positive, engage with the wonderful people around you. Those basic things will go a long way toward making your college years a rewarding experience. A positive attitude generates positive experiences.
Put other options out of your mind. Focus on what’s in front of you. Down the road, when you are away from the school for spring or summer break, you can think again about what’s the best place for you and can discuss it with your parents. You may even not want to transfer at all.
Work hard, have fun, remember there will be great people around you who are excited to meet and get to know you. Many will be bright and young and enthusiastic. Embrace that, cherish it. Good luck!