Transferring colleges is not a rare occurrence.

In fact, a lot of students in their freshman or sophomore years apply to transfer. Here are some thoughts to keep in mind while going through the process.

1. Other's opinions don't matter as much as your own

If you're worried about seeming less intelligent because you're transferring out of a prestigious school to a lower-ranked one, don't be. The fact that you got into the original school in the first place shows that you were capable of being there. You're just choosing a school that's going to do more things for you.

2. Go somewhere that has the best possible program for your career

If you know a particular school offers great internships in your field and offers classes that will help you succeed, go there.

3. Pick an environment that you feel you can thrive in

Sure, you may want more of an urban environment, but do you want culture capital urban like New York, history-embedded urban like Boston, or political urban like Washington DC

4. Do your research before you commit to a school

If you're an actor and know that performing in an auditorium, with access to professional-quality lighting, sound, and costumes is important to you, make sure this college can offer that.

5. Pick a school with lots of activities you're interested in

When you're not studying or in class, you're most likely involved in a club or working. See if this university has clubs you're interested in joining, or is in close proximity to somewhere you want to work at.

6. Look up graduates that have studied what you are interested in studying

Are you encouraged by the fact that 3 of the principal actors in "Mean Girls: The Musical" on Broadway attended University of Michigan and are thinking, "Wow, I could succeed at the University of Michigan, too?" Go for it!

7. Don't worry about letting people down

Your best friend(s) in the world might be coming up in a year or two, and while going to school with them might be absolutely amazing, your mental state, career success, and goals are absolutely valid.

8. Take classes that will transfer to your new school

It would be such a pain if you worked hard in a class and then it doesn't even transfer. Do the research, and find out if the credits for the classes you're taking now are equivalent to ones for classes offered there.

9. Keep working hard and continuing to get good grades

Grades are still a very important factor in admissions.

10. Do what makes you happy

Because in the end, it's your education and your life.