Ever since my junior year in high school I was focused on getting into this one college. I was thrilled when I was accepted, but now that I’m here I feel like I made the wrong decision. What should I do?

College Money Matters Responds

Give yourself a break!  Did you know that 13% of 4-year college students transfer at some point during their undergraduate career? 

It’s completely normal to feel some regret or uncertainty after making a major decision like choosing a college. After all, you’ve put a lot of time and effort into the process, and there’s a big adjustment process involved.  You might want to give it some time, but also talk with other people about it: your friends, your family, your college counselor.

But if after thinking it over, you feel getting out is the right option for you, you can start looking into other colleges. But pay attention to whether that school will accept the credits for the courses you have taken.  You don’t want to have to take courses twice.   Also, don’t rule out financial aid from the school you are transferring to.  Colleges need to fill in their classes because some students drop (or transfer!) out.

It might also make sense to consider  your local community college. That can help you save money and give you time to explore your interests while deciding on your next move.

After all, whether you get a great education or a mediocre one usually depends much more on what you make of the opportunity than what school you go to. What matters is your happiness, your peace of mind, and that you feel like you are getting a quality education that will help you pursue the kind of future you want.