The time has finally arrived. You’ve applied, you’ve been accepted and now you’re officially transferring colleges, gearing up for new experiences. Everything you’ve wanted to get out of college is right in front of you and you couldn’t be more excited. As you look forward to a new beginning, are there still some feelings of fear that are dragging along? What if I’m not able to make friends? What if I can’t find anyone I click with? Will I be alone?

All transfer students have these reoccurring thoughts. The idea of having to go through the friendship selection process again is terrifying enough to make you second guess yourself. I am here to tell you that there is nothing to fear, you’ll make friends.

One thing that you need to remember is that you’re not alone. There are plenty of students transferring the same time as you. Orientation is a great way to meet them. Ask your school if they offer a transfer orientation like Nichols does. When you’ve found the right school, it’s impossible to not feel welcomed. After the activities and icebreakers, you’ll not only be more comfortable but you’ll also have a great experience with the other transfer students. It’s amazing how welcoming people can be when you’re all on the same boat. It wouldn’t surprise me if you already have plans to hang out with people the first night of orientation.

Campus involvement can be the promise land for transfer students looking to build connections. You’d be shocked at how many transfer students I know that are involved on campus.  I’ve seen transfers join sport teams, whether it’s intramural, club or varsity. There are transfers as orientation leaders, in the honors program, and even ones working in admissions. Practically all of our various clubs and events at Nichols have transfer students involved.

One of my best friend transferred into the soccer team and the honors program. I even went on spring break trips with them. We made so many unforgettable memories on these trips, like getting lost in the Red Wood Park in San Francisco and staying up all 20 hours of our car ride to Daytona only to get to our house and fall asleep immediately. If it wasn’t for campus involvement, I wouldn’t have met many of the people who’ve had such a big impact on my college experience. With all of the extracurricular groups and activities that are offered, it’s nearly impossible to not find people you click with.

Forget about all the thoughts that are popping up in your head. There’s no need to fear being alone. Regardless of what you’re into, there will be someone you connect with, even at a small, private school. There are too many people with similar interests not to. So, don’t stress. You’re going to meet people who you’ll spend your time with at college.