Transferring to a new college can make you feel like you are in the middle of a foreign country, and the transition can be an incredibly daunting task.
You have no idea what you are doing around campus or town. You are insecure that everyone knows you as an infamous transfer student and it feels impossible to walk with that extra spring in your step because you think there is a 'transfer' sticker on your forehead.
No matter when you join the Geneseo community, however, anyone can become an involved, informed and sociable student. Having been in that situation myself, I offer some tips to transfer students, from the heart.
Making friends midyear is extremely intimidating, especially in corridor-style housing. Most students know that you are new and that can be both an advantage and disadvantage.
The super-friendly students will knock on your door and introduce themselves. Those are probably the students that you will want to spend time with and befriend. But the not-so-friendly students are out there too, and when they give you dirty looks in the hallway or ignore you, you simply have to smile.
When you are feeling particularly daring, gather up your roommate and walk through the hallways knocking on doors to introduce yourselves. You never know who you will meet and connect with and how helpful they may be at giving advice on professors or classes.
You may also want to get to know a resident assistant in your building. Most, if not all RAs, are outgoing, friendly and truly want to make you feel comfortable and at home in the dorm - when they have the time to do so; after all, they are students too.
Another great way of getting to know your fellow residents is to join your hall council. Anyone can join these groups and attend meetings to offer ideas.
Once you have befriended your roommate and other residents from your dorm, it's all about being social and getting out of the dorm where you increase your chances of meeting more people.
Go to Late Knight activities. Go to an off-campus gathering. Go anywhere and everywhere. Join any clubs that you're interested in or think you may enjoy. Don't be afraid to take some chances and try new things.
Most importantly, don't hold back. Have fun and enjoy your college experience!