Your collegiate experiences up to this point have set the foundation for a great start at the University of Michigan. Transferring here means joining a community of people who want you to succeed. The strategies below can help you to maximize opportunities, build your degree path, and enjoy your time on campus.
Connect with advisors early and often.
Get to know your academic advisors, who can help you understand how your credits transferred and what degree requirements you have remaining at U-M. Advisors can also serve as liaisons to other key units such as Financial Aid. You may have separate advisors for your major(s), minor(s), or general degree requirements. Think of your advisor as your “go to” person on campus for advice and support.
Learn about U-M technology tools.
Every campus has different technology tools, and as a new U-M student, you’ll need to know the key tools that will help you manage your business. These include Canvas to manage your coursework, Atlas for academic planning, and Wolverine Access for all sorts of student business, including registering for classes. Check out the Information and Technology Services website for useful tips on technology resources.
Take advantage of new resources.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help! Make use of office hours and other opportunities to interact with faculty outside of class. Utilize academic resources (e.g., tutoring, supplemental instruction) and personal resources (e.g., counseling, wellness coaching) to help navigate challenges, balance life responsibilities, or just to get connected with others.
Connect with career support.
We know your time at Michigan may be more condensed so it’s important to hit the ground running to set yourself up for success. There are many internship and career resources available to students at the college and university level. Get connected early to set your next steps in motion.
Get involved on campus.
Making friends and building your support network are important steps for transfer students. U-M offers numerous student organizations, communities, and experiential learning opportunities to help you create a sense of community. Initially, consider starting with organizations and programs that focus on transfer students to quickly connect with others who are going through a similar transition. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you’re not able to balance campus involvement with your academic responsibilities right away. It’s perfectly normal for it to take some time before you feel ready to participate in campus opportunities.
Stay on top of deadlines.
Dates and deadlines for things like course registration, schedule changes, or club and organization sign-ups may differ at Michigan from what you were used to at your previous school. Keep an eye on your inbox for official communications about important dates and campus activities.
Welcome new experiences and opportunities.
Even though you’ve already experienced college elsewhere, your first year at Michigan brings new opportunities for growth and discovery. Embrace the changes and challenges that lie ahead. Remember, it’s normal to have questions and hit a few bumps in the road along the way. Aim for progress, not perfection.
Balance your goals and your wellness.
We know that you will be very busy as a Michigan student. It is important to take care of yourself during this challenging and exciting time. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing yourself is essential for having a great Michigan experience. Explore the various resources available on campus to support your well-being to find what works best for you.
Believe in yourself.
It is easy to begin doubting yourself when you are navigating a new college environment. Silence your inner critic! You have all the tools and resources you need to succeed at U-M. Reflect on the knowledge, experiences, and strengths that you are bringing with you. Lean on those and be confident that you have what it takes to adapt to your new surroundings and figure out how to succeed here.
