Transferring from private to public — 5 tips to keep you in the game

Let’s face it — everyone dreams of attending a prestigious university, whether it be an Ivy League or a school listed somewhere at the top of Forbes annual “Best Colleges in America” list.

For some students, that dream becomes a reality right after high school, while others aim to transfer in following a year elsewhere, perhaps at a public university or community college.

It seems implausible that someone would opt to leave a university with an excellent reputation, for a school that is virtually unheard of across the country, right?

Well, that student is me.

My senior year in high school, I gained admission into an esteemed university; some even considered it a “Southern Ivy.” Without speaking on the longer details involved, I chose to transfer to a public university many states away. Needless to say, many people questioned my decision, voicing concerns about the academic quality of the school.

“Nobody’s ever heard of it” or “You’re ruining your chances at law school” were the most common comments I heard. However, I had done my research and was confident in my decision. If anything, it was more fuel to my fire to succeed.

Many students transfer for different reasons: perhaps there will be less financial obligation elsewhere or maybe they want to be closer to home. It could simply be a case of preferring a different demographic of students.

Nonetheless, transferring from one school to the next, regardless of its popularity or academic ranking, should be about your growth as a student. If you truly believe that you will be happier, more financially stable or better prepared for your career elsewhere, then go for it!

Now, that is not to say you should not desire to attend a highly-ranked school. Many people are proud to have attended undergrad at famed institutions. However, don’t be discouraged if you don’t. The myth that one won’t earn as much as his or her Ivy League counterparts or gain admission into the grad school of their choice is simply outdated.

Studies show that students who graduate from a public university make no less than those who graduate from an Ivy League, when comparing a Bachelor’s degree alone; rather, the true difference in income comes from the type of degree earned and whether a Master’s degree is pursued as well (Wang, 2009).

With that being said, here are five suggestions for any transfer students who aren’t quite sure they’ve found their way yet:

1. Join organizations. You will meet a lot of like-minded individuals and have the opportunity to establish crucial leadership roles and skills.

2. Search for internships in your field. Build your resume as early as possible. Employers and grad schools like to see that you applied yourself during college.

3. Network. Seek out professors and employers who are in your desired career path; they may be able to put you in contact with the right person in the future.

4. Aim for that 4.0. You have a chance at a brand new slate of grades. Use this as your advantage to boost your GPA.

5. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Go try out for that modeling troupe or sign up for the yoga club. You might meet your future lifelong friends.

I am now going into my junior year and I can wholeheartedly say transferring was the best decision I made regarding my undergraduate career. Since my sophomore year, I have joined many organizations, from career-oriented fraternities to more miscellaneous clubs. I’ve also been offered a few internships in my desired career field and networked with individuals in the area I plan to go into.

The key to success as a transfer student is having an open mind. Don’t be afraid — you’re not alone.

You don’t have to explain to everyone what led you from your previous school to where you are now, or plan to go. What matters is now.

College is about using the plentiful resources available to further advance yourself not only as a well-rounded student but a professional as well. By following the above tips, your transition to your new college will be smooth and your opportunities will be endless upon graduation.