Considering Transferring

A question sometimes faced during the first or second year is whether to transfer to another college or university. Student may express feelings such as: “I’ve never really been happy here;” “I just don’t seem to fit in;” “These are not my kind of people”. A change in geography will not necessarily resolve these feelings. The “grass is greener” illusion is common to all of us. Once they settle into a routine and have had sufficient time to develop meaningful friendships, their attitude and outlook often improve. On the other hand, campus environments do differ. It is possible that a student may function better in another college environment. Some students investigate other schools but don’t ultimately leave their present one.

There are three reasons why it is preferable to complete a full year of study before transferring. First, a transfer to another college is easier on a completed year basis. Second, a full year will allow the student time to solidify feelings and to identify elements of satisfaction and dissatisfaction so that other college environments can be evaluated more accurately. Third, if a student is assured that you are willing to consider transferring as a possibility, feelings of desperation will be relieved, present circumstances viewed more objectively, and perhaps they discover that the University of Richmond is a good choice after all. If, after reflection, the student is more firm in the desire to transfer, the reasons will probably be clearer. CAPS psychologists often consult with students who are exploring the option to transfer.

Next Section: Emotional Health