To all those out there transferring, considering transferring, or anything in between--you are not alone. I went to Truman State University and made some great friends quickly. I had good relationships with my professors. I enjoyed my suite mates and roommate. Yet, I still wanted to transfer.
It was hard. I won't lie about that. It was not an easy decision. You may be considering transferring for a number of reasons. For me, it wasn't just one. The biggest reason for me was I changed my mind about what I wanted to do with my life. I went to Truman to pursue a dream I thought I had. That dream was to be a teacher just like everyone else in my family and I mean everyone. My sister, my dad, my mom, my brother-in-law, my aunt, my grandmas, etc. At the age of 17, when considering my options I did not think long and hard about anything. I went to Truman for one reason--to get my master's in teaching in 5 years total. I visited other colleges but didn't take any of them seriously. The "obvious" choice was Truman.
Fast forward to Fall 2016. There was not one particular thing that turned me off about Truman. I think it was the fact that I didn't think. I didn't really think about my needs and where I would be living for the next 5 years of my life. By the first month, I had a revelation. I didn't want to be a teacher. I really didn't. It just wasn't for me. I talked to my counselor and he agreed that maybe I should consider other majors.
I decided to leave Truman. I knew it simply wasn't for me because I didn't think my decision through. I didn't think. If anyone is out there thinking about their future--do just that. Think. Think about what's best for you. What will make you most happy? Where do you see yourself in five years? Are you even going to college because you want to? Have you considered community college? Will you be okay living with a roommate that's almost constantly 4 feet away from you?
To the students that are considering transferring, make a pros and cons list. Why do you want to leave in the first place? Can you stay and make it work and still be happy? What college would you rather go to? Can you get your family onboard with this decision? Will you easily adjust to a new school? What's most important is you. Your future and your mental health. Again, think like I didn't learn to do until I wanted to transfer.
To those about to transfer (and incoming freshman), it will be okay! I know it's scary but you've got this. Talk to your advisors and your counselors. Follow your school's social media--you won't regret it! Get your school's app(s). Get involved! Go to events that you may dread. Talk to your old friends and your family. Stay connected with people! Most importantly, stay in tune with yourself. You control your thoughts, actions, and feelings. No one knows you better than you know yourself.
Basically what I'm saying is that life is hard, but you will be okay. I've been through it. Many others have been through it. You truly will be okay. This is a new chapter in your life so it's okay to be afraid of the unknown, but don't let that fear capture you.
