Fearful Freshman: “I’ve been thinking about transferring and prepared some applications, but I’m not sure if I should submit them or not. How do I know if I’m making the right decision?”
Dearest Fearful Freshman,
Submit them! You’ve already put the work in, which means there’s clearly some part of you that questions your space here at Tufts.
I personally transferred here and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. My reasons for leaving my previous institution are obviously going to be very different from yours or anyone else’s, but I firmly believe that anyone considering transferring should give themself a chance. You can always complete this semester and figure out whether to stay once you get decisions back from other schools.
You are so brave for realizing that something feels wrong and choosing to do something about it. However, I urge you to make sure you’re running towards something, not just away from Tufts. Engage fully with your life here, make appointments with the different resources offered, get out of your dorm room and find the green grass while you’re here. I don’t want you to transfer away only to realize that your struggles were separate from your environment.
Need a bigger school? Realizing your ideal major isn’t offered here? Wishing for a different student body and culture? Sounds like there might be a better fit for you outside of Medford and Somerville.
Tired of being so far from home? Want to run away from your tragic first-semester situationship? Struggling with your classes? Wildly overwhelmed? Your problems probably won’t be magically solved just by leaving — except maybe you’ll have fewer liberal arts 360s to complete.
There is so much magic to be found here. We will miss you dearly if you go, but I hope you find your magic somewhere.
All the best and all my love,
Defne
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