College education prepares a student for future life. It equips one with skills and relevant aptitudes necessary for a great career ahead. Indeed, college is a great stepping stone for bigger opportunities.
Getting a college degree, however, remains a dream to many. There are those who work in addition to getting financial aid just to continue studying. There are those who have troubles with housing, yet find a way to keep studying in college. Still, there are others who face hunger, travel long distances, and find their way to college even if they don't have a clue about it.
But what if college isn't what a student expects it to be? Does he throw all the college learning and credits away, and jump ship to another worthy endeavor, like going out of school to find a job? An expert says "no" because transferring to another college might be a great solution for that.
"If your current college is not the rewarding experience that you had hoped it would be, do not throw your hard work away," Brian Witte, a professional SAT tutor with Varsity Tutors writes for U.S. News. "Instead, regroup and shift focus to a new school that matches your desires."
Here are some of Witte's tips in choosing the best college to transfer to, when needed.
1) Identify the Reasons Why
Witte says before deciding to transfer, it's best to look at the reasons why. "Are your problems academic, social or a mixture of the two?" he says.
Witte says if a school doesn't challenge one to study, or is perhaps too hard for one's capacity, it might be a good reason to transfer to another school that offers one's preferred academic environment.
If the reason is social environment, Witte advises considering one's personality. For example, an introvert will like a college with a small population.
Whatever the reason, it's best to discuss the plans with an academic adviser who knows what to say.
2) Gather Relevant Data
Witte advises writing down all the positive and negative aspects of one's current school. This list will help in selecting the right college.
For example, if the idea of living in a large city to study was once ideal but is actually impractical, students can choose one that's easier to locate with less hassle.
Grades can also be a good factor too, and can be used to ask teachers about what they could advise for the transfer student. Making an inventory of one's positive and negative features, or a list of strengths and weaknesses, will also help in finding the right college.
3) Don't be Ashamed
Finally, Witte says, "remember, there is no shame in forging a new path." If transferring to another school or shifting to another major is what is needed, then there's no reason to be ashamed.
