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There are some lucky students who attend college and find their own personal utopia. However, many students may feel disappointed with their first year or semester. For those who wish to seek a different college experience, don’t panic! Though transfer applications can be a daunting process, it may be worth the switch if you are looking for a school with stronger academics, more opportunities, or a specific major for your passion. Whatever the reason, transferring gives you an additional chance at demonstrating your potential and accomplishments. Here are five simple tips that will help you stand out, find a better fit, and overall reduce stress.

1. Think about your needs

Think about what you don’t like about your college. What are the reasons you want to transfer? Is it the lack of school spirit? Are you seeking a different location or major? Once you pinpoint your dislikes, it will be easier to find a school that suits you better.

2. Research your choices

Luckily, now that you are in college, it is likely that you know more universities than you did when you first started applying as a high school senior. After identifying potential schools, evaluate whether they are feasible in terms of your abilities and finances. Some schools give out little to no financial aid to transfers whereas others earmark large amounts. Find the statistics of their transfer admissions. Note the ones who accept many transfers and those with few spots. Keep in mind that schools that were previously out of reach could be targets now if you’ve thrived in college academics or had a great internship.

3. Start your application early

The sooner that you start the transfer application process, the stronger the application will be. This starts with your grades. Your college grades will give you a chance to reinforce your success in high school or prove that you have upped your academic game. Your last two to three semesters of grades will weigh a lot in your chances of admissions as they demonstrate your work ethic at the collegiate level. Work hard and aim for a high GPA, even if you’re unhappy with your college because it will pay off in your efforts to switch schools. Plus, you will show admissions counselors that you strive for success even in difficult circumstances.

4. Tailor your application

Is the school to which you’re applying have the interests you are looking for? Is there a particular core set of classes that provoke your intellectual curiosity? Write about these in your transfer application essays and tie your personal story to them. It shows an individual interest in the school not limited to its ranking or its location. If you have interviews, be sure to research the college’s culture as well as academics.

5. Keep a positive mindset

Keep it light and positive! By stressing and working frantically to transfer, you will inevitably burn out. The transfer process can be a crucial part of your future, but as long as you work hard and do your best, you will find yourself where you are meant to be. Set realistic goals, and persevere. Even if you aren’t accepted to your top choice, you will find an option that is right for you. (You’ve done it all before, you got this!)

With these tips, you are ready to triumph the transfer application process. There is a school out there for everyone, so do not lose hope! Despite your unfavorable first experience with college, you should be proud that you took the initiative to change your environment and pursue a path that makes you happy. Good luck; myOptions is rooting for you!

Post courtesy of Andrew James