Ten Tips and Tricks for Texas Christian University Transfer Students 

1.    Adapting to a new environment will take time. When you first come to TCU, it will be a culture shock. Personally, I found the transition to be difficult at times; however, over time I learned a lot about myself and about how I wanted my college experience to be. It may take a while to adapt, but eventually, you will find your way.   

2.    Join numerous clubs and organizations. As soon as you start your classes, you need to figure out what clubs and organizations you want to be involved in on campus. Getting involved right away is very important. Decide what you are passionate about and go for organizations centered around that passion. You may experience rejection at first, I certainly did, but don't get discouraged because eventually, everything will work out.

3.    Embrace diversity. When I first came to TCU, I knew I was going to encounter many different people. There is diversity everywhere you look. I lived in the commons my first year, and my first-floor Resident Assistant was from Hawaii and my fourth floor RA was from Alaska. Honestly, you can find people from every stretch of the United States, and from many other countries. My advice is to talk to people who are from different parts of the world. You can learn so much about someone, and their culture and beliefs, by simply talking to them. 

4.    Participate in Frog Camp before coming to TCU. I signed up for Frog Camp Quest when I made the decision to transfer to TCU and I was happy with my decision. I am a very service-oriented person, so I knew I wanted to sign up for a frog camp that was volunteer-based to hopefully meet likeminded friends. Even though I was the only person at that particular Frog Camp who was junior, I made some friends who I know will always be a part of my life. 

5.    Work hard to maintain your grades before transferring to TCU. Before transferring to TCU, I attended a community college. I was not very happy with my decision at first, but eventually, when I became involved in the school my experience turned out better. You should always have a strong work ethic, and try to be involved in as many organizations you can join. Also, if there are those of you out there who are still in high school, my advice would be to take as many dual credit courses that are offered. They will help you tremendously in the long run when you are applying for scholarships. 

6.    It is perfectly fine if you don't have your major figured out. When I was a freshman in college, I had absolutely no idea what major I wanted to pursue. I am a very passionate person, so I went from wanting to be a neuroscience major to psychology to double majoring in nutrition and Strategic communication. Long story short, I was very indecisive about my major when I wanted to transfer. It is perfectly normal to not know what career path you want to have for the rest of your life. However, if you are considering majoring in nutrition, I would suggest taking a lot of science courses that are required before you transfer. I wanted to double major in Nutrition and Strategic Communication, and my advisor told me I still needed fifteen credits left before I could take any major courses. So, it is important to at least have an idea of what you want to major in and make sure there isn't a huge list of prerequisites. 

7.    Utilize all the resources on campus, including the Writing Center and the Transfer Center.  One of the best parts of my TCU experience is getting involved around campus in organizations and activities that I am passionate about. I have had the opportunity to be the Side Events Chair for St. Jude Up 'Til Dawn, and I am on the public relations committee for Dance Marathon, which benefits Cook Children's Hospital here in Fort Worth. However, I have enjoyed being a transfer liaison and working with the Transfer Center team the most.  

8.    Take advantage of Study Abroad. There are many study abroad opportunities at TCU. I am a British Studies minor, so when I came to TCU I knew that I wanted to be able to study in London and get to experience all the city has to offer, culturally and socially. College is all about broadening your horizons and making new memories, friends and having great experiences. The people in the International Studies office here are so wonderful and welcoming. With the way our world is headed, it is very important for students, especially communications majors, to be able to have the global perspective that it is in our mission statement at TCU. Studying abroad is a wonderful experience that students that many students decide to do if their schedule allows. 

9.    Go to sporting events and get involved in the TCU Spirit. I must admit, I am a horned frog through and through. My mom and aunt both went to TCU. Growing up in Arlington, we always went to TCU games. I have had season passes to the football games since I was born. There are many special parts that encompass a TCU football game, like the TCU spirit, athleticism, and passion. Frogs for the Cure is a nonprofit here at TCU that is focused on curing all types of cancer. They have an annual Frogs for the Cure football game that is always an exciting game. Night games have the most thrilling atmosphere, especially if you do not like the Texas heat, and the feeling and excitement that exudes from every fan is indescribable. 

10.   Be kind to every person you meet. Honestly, I believe this is the most important tip I have for students transferring to TCU. Being kind is something that is very important to me, and it is also something that is very important to others. How you present yourself, whether it is in a negative or positive light, it makes a considerable difference when talking with teachers or friends. My teacher last spring told me, "Every day you walk around this campus you are interviewing, so what you say on your phone and how you interact with other people matters". So, go out there and achieve your dreams. You will experience many reactions, heartbreaks, and failures, but don't let that define who you are. We are not the sum of our failures, we are humans with emotions, intelligence, and experiences. You decide how you want to live your life in college, and I hope these tips are helpful as you continue on your college journey. 

Spread Kindness and Be Altruistic. 

Love, 

Lexy