Transferring

For many students, college is an enormous change, whether you're a first time student or just new to OU. Like any of life's thresholds, it can take some time to get adjusted on the other side. Before planning to head elsewhere, give yourself plenty of time and opportunity to acclimate to your new life at OU.

Confide in someone on campus about the situation leading you to consider a transfer. Whether it is an academic advisor, faculty member, counselor, or campus mentor, don't try to navigate this complicated decision alone. It is beneficial to include your campus connections in your considerations, as they are valuable resources who can aid you in weighing all your options and making every effort to fully address your questions and concerns.

When you transfer to a new school, you still take yourself with you. If you're having difficulties adjusting to college life, or a new campus, as many students do, you should consider whether these problems are specific to OU or will still be present elsewhere. Rather than moving to a new college, you might first try making a few small personal and social changes. Click here to log into Engage, where you can browse and connect with student organizations on campus. You'll be amazed at how a few new connections, a different work or sleep schedule, or adding a healthier habit to your day can entirely alter your college experience.

Think about what it was that attracted you to the University of Oklahoma in the first place, and what it is that has prompted you to consider leaving. Are the reasons and things that made you want to be an OU student still important to you? Anyone who still wants to be here should never feel that transferring is the only solution for their situation. The circumstances leading you to consider leaving may be resolvable, or at least manageable, with the help of people and resources at OU, and a little more time.

Depending on the difference in degree requirements at OU and other schools you may be considering, and how rigorous each program is, there is a likelihood that some of your OU courses could end up being classified as general electives after a transfer. A new campus might sound like a great idea, but realistically, transferring could mean something similar to starting entirely over. Schedule an appointment with your academic advisor and discuss your intentions. They will be able to help you assess the impact a transfer could have on obtaining your degree.

Are you thinking about an intentional move to better your future, or are you just burned out and looking for a change of scenery? It's understandable to feel frustrated after a rough semester, but it is very important to consider all your options and find the one that will best enable you to succeed. Schedule a meeting with GPS to create a plan to address the circumstances causing you to consider transferring and to learn about people and resources on campus available to support you. To make an appointment, call us at (405) 325-8103 or email us at gps@ou.edu.

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