Transferring to a university can be stressful and scary. I would know I have done it and been accepted into my dream school. That being said, I thought I would give some advice for those getting ready to transfer or for those who just do not know where to start.  

The first thing to do is breathe, do not panic, everything will be okay. This may sound cheesy, but it is true. When I was applying to different universities, I was extremely anxious I was going to be rejected from everything and told I was a failure. Highly unlikely, still I was stressed out and could not stop overthinking. The only thing this did was cause me to pick my nails until they bled and be on edge. I know it is hard to say do not panic and to breathe because it will all work out but it truly is going to work out.  

Now the first real tip I have is apply early! I graduate May 2025 and transfer in the fall, I applied September of 2024. A lot of universities only accept so many transfer students a year. So, getting ahead of the game is your best option. By applying early, you also open yourself up to scholarships earlier! I applied and committed to my transfer school all by October 2024, I ended up with a scholarship covering my full tuition and in a program that is extremely limited. I truly believe I would not be in this program or with the scholarship I have if I had waited.  

Apply for financial aid as soon as possible! The sooner you apply the better chances you have of getting the most. This tip is also helpful for Lake Land College and any school you plan to go to. Applying for financial aid and scholarships early is the best way to ensure you receive what you need to thrive in school.  

Another thing I personally did was I had three letters of recommendation attached to my application. Originally, I had planned on including a few more but was advised to only submit three. Letters of recommendation are not required to have but they look really nice on those applications. I also rewrote my application letters numerous times and had multiple people look them over. Be open to constructive criticism! No one is perfect and you will have mistakes. It is good to get other people’s opinions because they can see things you cannot.  

My last tip for you is to have fun! Have fun and enjoy the process. Research schools, apply to ones you think you have no chance at getting in because you never know you might. It may be stressful or scary but it can also be an exciting process. You can do it!