Whether you’re transferring colleges to be closer to home, to take a chance in a new environment or simply seeking a better fit, the general consensus is this: transferring is scary. 
As a former transfer student myself, I know this feeling well and would’ve loved to gain insight from a fellow Tiger. Below are a few tips to help ease the transition!
1. Don’t be shy during move-in. 
Move-in day is nerve-racking for many reasons; it’s the start of something new, you’re meeting new people, and for some, it may be your first time living away from home. However, move-in day is an excellent opportunity to introduce yourself to the people in your dorm building and build connections early. 
2. Go to Tiger Prowl.
If this isn’t your first time reading an article about transfer tips, I’m positive you’ve heard this advice: Get involved! One of the most significant ways to experience Clemson to its fullest extent is to join a club, Greek life or a club sport. It may seem overwhelming, but Tiger Prowl is the most efficient way to discover all Clemson has to offer.
3. Talk to the people in your classes.
When I initially transferred to Clemson, I let my anxiety stop me from reaching out to my classmates. Since then, I started making a point to socialize with them — especially other students in my major — which made me more confident in myself and my work. And speaking from experience, the people in your classes probably want to talk to you too.
4. “The College Experience” is just your experience. 
Social media often tells us that if we’re not constantly socializing, partying or talking about how much fun we’re having, then we probably aren’t really getting the true college experience. Bottom line: If that lifestyle doesn’t align with your priorities, you don’t have to do it. Find people who share your priorities, and you will have fun anyway. 
5. It’s okay to sit alone in the dining hall. 
Trust me; no one will think anything when they see you sitting alone. We’ve all done it, and we all need to eat. The dining halls are also great for people-watching, so grab a booth and enjoy.
6. Don’t feel discouraged if the people in your dorm already have a group of friends. 
If you’re living in a dorm, chances are the other students living there will already have their “group” of friends. Don’t let that discourage you from reaching out to them; whether they end up being your best friends or not, you’ll never know if you don’t try.
If they’re not, you will find your people. Trust me.
7. Reach out to other transfer students. 
One cool thing about transferring? You’re never the only one. Reaching out to other transfer students in your classes and dorms may just be the best way for you to connect with others. Clemson offers a program called T2T, or Transfer to Tiger Mentors, which allows new transfer students to connect with older transfer students to ask for advice, ask questions or just have a familiar face on campus. 
8. It’s not embarrassing to ask questions. 
Whether you’re trying to find one of your classes, wondering how the football student ticket lottery works or signing up for a campus recreation fitness class for the first time, it’s okay to ask for help. Everyone had to learn how to do these things just like you did. 
9. You probably won’t get into every class you want on your first try, but that’s okay.
Truthfully, class registration week is dreaded among all Clemson students. It’s notoriously difficult to secure a seat in every class you’re interested in, so it’s beneficial to prepare a list of backup courses, fill out closed course requests and monitor iRoar in hopes of witnessing a last-minute seat open. If you’re having a hard time, don’t panic. You’re still going to graduate.
10. A guide to Clemson nightlife
One of the most enticing things about Clemson itself is the nightlife. With eight bars in downtown Clemson and over 20 social fraternities, there’s something for everyone. Interested in dancing? Try Study Hall. Best place to meet new friends? Try Itsurweiner. Looking for some Love Story by Taylor Swift remixes not too far from campus? Introduce yourself to the gentlemen of… any fraternity, really.
Most importantly, welcome to the Clemson Family. We’re happy to have you.