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My Transfer Experience

by Megan Decker

After two years at a junior college, I was eager for “community.” I was excited to be surrounded by students and professors who loved and served God. I prayed a lot, when deciding where to transfer, and at the end of my search I felt that Westmont was the perfect place to find the “community” I'd been looking for. As I was packing my bags and preparing to leave for Westmont, I knew that the friendships I was about to make would take a lot of effort, but they would be worth it. This transition was going to be both exciting and challenging.

The first month of school was a whirlwind. Everything moved so quickly and as the homework began to pile up, strong friendships were being built. I tried to engage myself in every event possible, from a VK art show to Saturday morning kickboxing with my suite mates. Each event I attended was just another opportunity to grow closer with those around me. I also got a job on campus, which was another way for me to meet more people and become more involved at Westmont.

The transition was very exciting, but was challenging as well. I was so focused on building relationships with those in my section, that I didn't expand my relationships with current upperclassmen early enough. I didn’t introduce myself to people. I didn’t sit at a random lunch table with random people. I didn't start up conversations with returning students in my classes. My recommendation for all transfers is to embrace what Westmont has to offer. Go to the events they have planned for you and have fun. Put yourself out there and test your limits. This is a time to let your guard down and show people who you are. As scary as it is, make yourself vulnerable to those around you. Do things that will make people remember you. Get yourself out there and make things happen for yourself. When you find yourself discouraged about something, change it. Take action! There are enough people around campus who are willing to help you do that. Everyone on campus wants to see you succeed and thrive at Westmont.

Jesus experienced a lot of uncomfortable things in his life. He ate meals with tax collectors and hung out with prostitutes. My challenge to you is get “uncomfortable,” enjoy the challenges, and embrace this new life God has called us to. Put yourself out there and make yourself available. In the end, the relationships and memories you’ve made will be worth that time of feeling uncomfortable and make your years at Westmont some of the most memorable years of your life.