ls is a common, yet complicated process that some high school students go through. A lot of them transfer because of different opportunities that they will gain at a new school. Even just this year, NDB has gotten many transfer students. Whether it is for academic, athletic or social reasons, transferring to a different school is a big decision to make.
Though transferring can be a great experience overall, transfer students often come across a unique set of challenges. Starting at a new school can be exciting, yet intimidating. It can be tough to adjust to a new environment and schedule. It can also be hard to adjust to different academic expectations and practices at a new school. The shift can be overwhelming at times.
Though it may have its challenges, there are many benefits to going to a new school. Some are the academic and extracurricular programs that a new school has to offer and might better align with the student’s interests. Another benefit is the new friendships that they can make just from switching their environments.
As someone who has transferred once in middle school and again in high school, I can say that, even the tough parts in the beginning are absolutely worth the positive experience that you can get by transferring to a new school. A fresh start can be a great experience for a student wanting a change of environment.
I transferred to NDB this year as a sophomore, and it has been a great experience so far. I believe that, sometimes, change is needed for a better and more positive experience.
When I was figuring out where I wanted to go, choosing NDB was an easy decision. I knew I wanted to go somewhere where the school felt like a community and somewhere closer to home. My older brother also went to Serra HS, so I was very familiar with NDB. That made the decision on where to go simpler.
I also reflected on when I transferred in middle school and how I do not regret that decision at all, helping me to realize that change can be a really good thing.
Transferring schools is not talked about enough. It is hard to start from scratch in a high school environment. All high schools do a fantastic job welcoming freshmen because it is their first time being in high school, and the change from middle school to high school is huge. But, with transfer students, it is a little harder to get that same help.
“My favorite thing so far is the people. It’s been a very welcoming community, and it’s been easy to make a ton of friends which is nice,” said sophomore Riley Blum, who also just transferred to NDB from a public school. “The biggest difference is that the people and the classes are much more motivated and strive for good grades and productivity.”
Being a transfer student in high school helps bring a new and unique perspective to the school that can enhance the learning and social environments. While transferring schools can be a tough experience at first, the support received from one’s new peers and teachers is especially helpful and can relieve stress.
