A good advisor is the backbone of the transfer process. They walk you through the ups, downs, and everything in between. From transferring credits to registering your classes to placing you in housing, your transfer advisor can make or break your experience with a school. That being said, it is crucial to find a school that believes in you and is willing to go the extra mile.
Below is a list of 10 questions to ask advisors. These questions will give you an opportunity to get to know the school that could potentially become your new home.
How will my credits transfer specifically for my major?
This is justifiably one of the most important topics when it comes to transferring schools. Your advisor should automatically be evaluating what credits will come in and how they specifically apply to what you want to study. It’s important to make sure they have your best interest in mind because you are putting a lot at stake. If there are credits that didn’t transfer that you think should, ask your advisor about it! They should be willing to look into it further and assist you the best way they can.
How will I fit into the University life here?
Asking this will simply help put your mind at ease. It’s always nice to know if you’ll fit into the community on campus. A campus visit will help tremendously because you’ll be able to see the campus first hand and experience the atmosphere.
Can the school help me financially?
Try your best to not write off a school before you know exactly how much it’s going to cost. There might be scholarships offered by the school or even specific transfer aid available. Again, the advisors should be there to help you, especially financially because everyone knows that paying for college can be daunting.
How many other students on campus are transfers?
This question is just to help you realize you aren’t alone. Sometimes it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one going through this process. However, there are students every day going through the exact same thing that you’ll be able to connect with once the semester begins.
Are there any resources on campus for transfer students?
This is good information to know because it will allow you to get connected to other transfer students immediately. Having an event or housing that brings transfers together who are experiencing the same thing as you is a great way to get connected. Knowing what is available is the key to success.
Can transfer students study abroad?
Most of the time transfer students are already slightly behind because of transferring credits. However, if studying abroad is something you are interested in ask about it! There might even be specific programs for transfer students but you’ll never know if you don’t ask.
Is there anything I have to tie up at my old school before I transfer?
Between getting a final transcript, finishing classes, and moving out, there is a lot to do before the transfer is official. Making sure you’re on the right track is always helpful to be aware of.
How does the housing process work?
Advisors are often the ones that get you settled into on-campus living and if they aren’t, they should know who to send you to. Different schools have different ways of doing this so asking will allow you to get insight into where you would stay if you attended the University. Not knowing where you’ll be living is intimidating so don’t be afraid to ask about it.
What’s your favorite thing about this University?
This is a fun question because it allows you get to know your advisor’s heart for the school. They are there to help you with the process, but sometimes it’s helpful to learn about them and what they personally like about the University. Ask them their story, what they like to do, what’s special about the University, etc. Getting to know them will allow your process to go smoother because it will feel like you’ve made a friend before the semester even starts.
How do I know if I’m making the right decision?
Every single student, freshman or transfer, deals with this very question on their journey. Transferring in particular takes a lot of strength and belief that no matter where you’re going to land, it will be where you are supposed to be. This takes a lot of faith and talking to others, especially those at the university. Your advisor shouldn’t just be trying to sell you their school. They should be walking through this journey with you no matter what doubts you may be experiencing.
Published 07/01/18