Transferring means new beginnings. It also means going through the wonderful moving process once again after thinking you'd stay in one place for four years. Follow along for some essential tips to ensure that your move goes smoothly and efficiently, which will help you start off on the right foot for your new adventure. 

Related: Want to Switch Schools? Here are 5 Common Questions About the Transfer Process to Help You Out

Housing

The most important part about moving to a new area is finding out where you're going to stay. If you're in the process of transferring, start discussing possible places to live with the coach if you haven't already. Do they have a preference or recommended athlete dorm they want you to live in? If they don't, research some places near campus and compare them to find a perfect place for you. Make sure to look at prices, location to school, and amenities to find the best fit for you.

Roommates

Make sure to start looking at roommates as well. Ideally it would be convenient to live with other people on the team, since you will have essentially the same schedules and priorities. If you're a swimmer, you might want to avoid disturbing someone who is not on the team with your morning practice alarm. Start reaching out to people on the team and see if anyone needs a roommate or has an open room for you to move in. People on the team will assume you're looking for a place to stay, so some may even reach out to you as well. If not, you can also look for athletes on different teams since you will likely still have similar schedules. NARPs are an option too–you can either advertise or look online for roommates via places like Facebook groups. But make sure they know what they're signing up for when they agree to live with a busy athlete.

Packing 

Packing is the other most important part when moving. Making sure you have everything you need will make everything go much smoother when you arrive. Make a general list of things you have and things you will need to buy.  You can start by including things you will need for each room: kitchen supplies, stuff for the living room, bathroom, and any other miscellaneous items. Will your new place be furnished? If not, start looking into purchasing some. Coordinate with roommates on who should buy what. Learn what the climate is like so you can pack your clothes accordingly. 

It may be hard, but also what to do with your old gear if you have any from your previous school. You don't have to get rid of it all, but realize you probably shouldn't wear it too much at your new school. Especially since you might be provided with new gear. 

Familiarize yourself with the area

It's also important to get to know the city you are moving to, at least become vaguely familiar with it, so you are not completely lost when you get there. If you are able to, visit campus at least once before your official move. Maybe stay with a teammate and have them take you around the city. Stop by at their favorite places to eat, shop, hang out at, wherever makes the area unique. 

Have them take you around the campus as well. If you have your class schedule already, walk to each building so you have an idea of the paths you will take each day.  If you have a place to live already, visit it and the surrounding areas so you can get a clear picture of its proximity to campus, your practice facility, and other essential areas. You will probably have a new student orientation which will help with this as well, but it is beneficial to tour on your own as well. Being comfortable with your own home will make the transition much smoother.

Related: How do Transfer Athletes Find Their Place on Their New Team?

Transportation

Figuring out your transportation situation as early as you can will make everything a lot easier when you move. Will you need a car to get around? If you can get one, where are places on campus to park? Will you need a parking pass? What are the closest and best auto shops or dealerships in case something goes wrong? It also doesn't hurt to find out who on the team has a car, and if you'll be able to carpool with them.If you won't have a car and will not be living within walking distance, find out if there is a shuttle or bus and familiarize yourself with the route and schedule along with anything else necessary. Also make sure you know what is the nearest airport (if you'll be living far enough away) so you're prepared for breaks when you can go home.

Academics 

Above all, make sure you are prepared academically. When you visit campus, introduce yourself to your athletic academic advisor, and get to know them a little bit, and ask any questions you may have. Confirm with them that your credits have successfully transferred, and if there is anything else you need to do. Go over your schedule and confirm that it is correct. See if you are required to go to study hall, and if so when and where is it held. 

Moving can be stressful, no matter the situation. Having a problem-free moving process can help make the overall transition to your new school much less complicated. I hope these tips have helped with that so you can transfer with confidence!

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* Originally published on July 14, 2022, by Sammie Grant