The process of transferring can be intimidating at best. You’ve fallen into a rhythm at community college, familiarized yourself with every corner of campus and have become a pro at waiting out packed parking lots to get a spot. Now you’re faced with a new, foreign campus and one too many parking lots as you try to establish new rhythm. Change can be tough, but it won’t be as daunting if you keep this student guide to starting Cal Poly Pomona (CPP): Transfer Edition in mind for a seamless transition.
- The first two tips presented are similar to the freshman guide. This isn’t due to mere laziness or lack of ideas but because I find them both significant. Take the time to explore campus prior to the beginning of the quarter—trust me, first-day-of-school you will thank me. Once you familiarize yourself with the new environment, it’ll seem less vast and intimidating. Knowing where to go and which parking lot is closest to your building will only make your first day that much easier.
- You’ll reach a certain point in your schooling career where you’ll wonder: what is U-hour and why does everyone seem to know except me? Since when does college entail secret code words? I’ll save you the confusion: U-hour is the hour between noon and 1 p.m. when students have a break from classes. So go on and use the term nonchalantly as if you’ve known this entire time—no one will ever know.
- Have a firm understanding of the classes you need to take and the classes you’ve already taken from community college. If you find yourself unsure—if flipping through the catalog and your transfer report gets too overwhelming—talk to your academic adviser. You wouldn’t want to waste your time and money on classes you’ve already taken.
- Don’t be afraid of not making any friends. To refrain from sounding like a corny pop song, I’ll say this only once: be yourself and you’ll find your place. Don’t worry so much about not being liked; be genuine and you’ll attract the right types of people. Read that last sentence over and over again until it’s ingrained into your head.
- Become more involved. It’s the best way to learn more about the school and meet people. Take advantage of the resources Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) has to offer to become more involved. Whether it’s becoming a student leader in student government, joining various clubs or getting a student job, you’ll be sure to find your place. The Bronco Recreation and Intramural Complex (BRIC) and Bronco Student Center (BSC) are also available resources for exercise, food and potential jobs.
What are some of the apprehensions you have or remember having about transferring? Share with us using the hashtag #CampusCropChat on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, and remember to follow us on Snapchat @asicpp! Read the last installment of our three-part student guide to starting CPP: international students edition!
