Know your worth
As a transfer it is crucial to know that you, just like everyone else, belong at UVA. UVA can seem elitist at times, but we promise you that there are tons of good people willing to help you out. This can’t be stressed enough: use your resources! You’d be surprised at the number of other transfer students in your classes and the abundance of not-so-secret tools to help UVA students. These resources range from online databases to office hours to study spaces. Keep those eyes out!
Time is key
When transferring into any school, there’s a lot of pressure to “catch up” to non-transfers through academic and social overload. Although you may be very capable of handling a lot on your plate, we recommend to take it easy so your transition can be as peaceful as possible. Plan your classes in a way that works for you and try to understand the value of good time management practices.
Get ahead before transferring
Remember when your parents told you to study over the summer? Studying shortly in advance for your classes (especially if you’re in a difficult major) can be quite helpful for you as a transfer student. This is because the pace of your former institution may be different to UVA’s. In short, stay ahead of the curve so falling behind isn’t an option.
Stay strong
Transferring into UVA feels like being propelled into a whole new world. This can be off-putting, but remember to seek out help from your association dean and never give up. Your academic advisers are there for you in the short term and long term. You shouldn’t worry because they can help you pick the right chemistry class and also point you towards your dream research gig.
Bonus for transfer students
Make sure to go to Monroe Hall to evaluate your transfer credit from your previous institution so you don’t repeat classes and flush away money!
If you follow these five tips, UVA should feel like a second home to you in no time. Good luck and Wahoowa!
Questions about transferring to UVA to discuss on Ohlelo:
- What’s your experience as a transfer at UVA so far?
- What are your favorite UVA-provided student resources?
- How welcoming does the UVA community seem to you?
- If you could relive your experience at UVA, what would you do differently?
Check out more resources for UVA students on YouTube.