What is the social atmosphere like for transfer students?

Colleges and Universities A-Z North Carolina State University
1

I will be transferring as a junior and am looking to meet new friends. I will probably live in a dorm near North campus (Watauga or North), since that is near most of my classes. Since, I didn’t get the freshman experience, do you think transfers have problems meeting new people and getting involved? Is it too late for greek life (should I even bother)?

2

I don’t have any information about Greek life, but my daughter (senior) says your dorm should offer several social events to help residents get to know each other. Also, attend the event where many of the clubs have tables set up to recruit new members, etc. She calls it “Campus Crawl”, but I see something called “Campus Connections” is scheduled for August 16th at Talley: https://getinvolved.ncsu.edu/organization/671/calendar/details/983198. There are so many organizations; try something that interests you. She also said people are usually open if you ask if anyone wants to go to lunch together, get ice cream… You need to make an effort, but if you do, you’ll be able to meet people. It’s a big campus with many opportunities.

3

[From a non-Greek perspective]

The “freshman experience” is overrated, don’t worry too much about that. My daughter lived in Bowen freshman year, then 3 years in North. There were good friends made freshman year that stuck all 4 years, but she also made very close friends her Jr and Sr years. Given your situation, I would recommend Watauga over North. North is an old hotel, with exterior doors on every room. This seemed to limit social interaction IMHO. If Watauga is suite or hall style, I think you’ll get a better social experience. Also, my son is a Sophomore, lived in Metcalf his freshman year, now lives in Wolf Village. Again, I think he’s going to enjoy it more and look back on his “freshman experience” as a bit over-hyped. My daughter and son had no interest in Greek life, only because they didn’t see the need, and didn’t want to get locked into a particular social circle. But I recognize those can also be positives for others looking to get plugged-in. Good luck!