THE TRANSFER EXPERIENCE
WELCOME!
All of us at Student Transitions & Engagement are thrilled to welcome you to WashU. We hope to make the transition to your new home as seamless as possible. We recognize that being a transfer student presents specific challenges and may seem difficult in the beginning. However, in our experience, these initial hurdles can be overcome by exercising patience, getting involved on campus, and creating connections. You have a wonderful opportunity for a fresh start and will have many experiences and resources available to you.
You will find everyone at WashU helpful, so never be afraid to ask questions. TX WUSAs, teaching assistants, professors, and others are here to provide support. It is your job to seek them out and ask for their guidance. Throughout Winter Welcome, try to attend all the transfer student events, as these are great opportunities to bond with other new transfer students and learn more about WashU. As you integrate into the WashU community, I would highly recommend keeping in touch with your transfer friends. Even now, some of my closest friends are the ones I made during orientation. Finally, know that everything is going to work out. The TX WUSA team will be a source of support and guidance throughout your first year at WashU, offering information about classes, academic deadlines, campus activities, and more. You have the power to create and shape your identity and legacy at WashU. I highly recommend putting yourself out there, keeping an open mind, and engaging with the WashU and St. Louis communities. By doing so, I’ve made friends from various academic divisions and backgrounds, and we have enjoyed sharing our interests and hobbies with one another.
My decision to transfer to WashU was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and the benefits continue to pay off with each passing day. Enjoy your winter, and please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at transitions@wustl.edu. We look forward to meeting you this winter!
Rohan Chintalapudi, Former TX WUSA College of Arts & Sciences, Class of 2024
“ You have chosen WashU for your next academic home, and we are eager to support you as you learn this new place. Wherever you pursue your degree, some things remain the same—finding courses you love, balancing class work and free time, and making the right connections. At WashU, your four-year advisor is a starting place for sorting things out. As you meet with your adviser over the winter, take advantage of their knowledge of academics as well as campus culture. Their job is to help you chart your next semesters and connect you with resources you want and need. Other people are ready to help, too. Learn the student perspective right away with your TX WUSA. They have been where you are and have been hired to be your guide. Make a commitment to take advantage of another fabulous resource— your faculty. Engage during class and use office hours. The faculty at WashU really want you to do your best. Have a wonderful winter, and we will see you on campus.”
Melanie Osborn, Senior Assistant Dean, McKelvey School of Engineering
TRANSITIONING TO W ASH U
COMING FROM A LARGE PUBLIC INSTITUTION
“Transferring to WashU from a very large public institution, I was quite scared I wasn’t going to experience the same social culture as in my previous school. I was pleasantly surprised I was able to make so many friends and find people with similar interests! In fact, transferring to a smaller institution helped my social life so much. I was able to create bonds that will last me a lifetime—ones that just wouldn’t be the same if I had stayed at my previous university.”
“I found classes at WashU were quite a bit more demanding than in my previous school, and they required me to come well-prepared and ready to participate every day. I have found this extra work is well worth it. These smaller settings give students a chance to engage in discussions and debates with each other and the professors.”
COMING FROM A SMALL LIBERAL ARTS INSTITUTION
“WashU is a research university, which means faculty members are usually involved in research in addition to teaching. As a result, you may have the opportunity to get involved with research, even as an undergrad! Most professors do an excellent job of making themselves available outside of class. TAs and help sessions supplement many courses, as well. I’ve found that WashU is the perfect size. I’ve had so many opportunities to participate in and pursue different interests, met so many new people, and still manage to see friendly faces I recognize every day. It’s been an extremely positive experience for me.”
“After transferring from a small liberal arts college, I was in awe at the number of happenings and opportunities at WashU. There are plenty of events, interesting classes, and great places to visit on and off campus. At WashU, there’s a strong sense of community. One thing I’ve really noticed is that even in the largest lecture, there are always ways to create connections with classmates, TAs, and faculty.”
COMING FROM A NON-U.S. INSTITUTION
“I have really enjoyed the experience I’ve had at WashU. Transferring here is the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve met many talented students here and have been lucky enough to make friends with them. It is very important to get involved at WashU when you first come here without knowing anyone. I definitely recommend taking an active part in Winter Welcome because that’s the first and biggest opportunity to meet other transfer students and spend some time getting to know them better. I met two of my best friends during that time! For international students, especially those who come from non-English speaking countries, there will be many challenges around language, culture, and academic performance. Truthfully, I had a tough time getting through the first semester, but everything became so much better in the second semester. So don’t feel frustrated if you haven’t gotten used to things here right away. It takes time, but hopefully, you’ll love this transfer experience!”
ACADEMIC DIVISIONS
COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES
314-935-6800
artsci.washu.edu
OLIN BUSINESS SCHOOL
314-935-7301
olin.wustl.edu
MCKELVEY SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
314-935-6100
engineering.washu.edu
SAM FOX SCHOOL OF DESIGN & VISUAL ARTS
314-935-9300
samfoxschool.washu.edu
STARTING SCHOOL
While you may have attended orientation at a previous institution, you’ll still need to attend an orientation program here at WashU. Winter Welcome will help you learn to navigate campus and meet other students at the university. TX WUSAs will be ready to help with anything and everything to make you feel welcome. With plenty of activities and fun ways to spend time with other transfer students, orientation is the first opportunity to connect with the transfer community and the beginning of many meaningful friendships.
COURSE REGISTRATION
Registration procedures vary depending on which academic division you are entering. You will be contacted by your academic advisor over the winter to register for the courses you’ll be taking in the spring.
No matter which academic division you are entering, be sure to retain syllabi and course information from your previous institution. This information will be important for the evaluation of transfer credit awarded at WashU. If you have any academic questions, don’t hesitate to contact your school, department, or academic advisor.
ARRIVAL INFORMATION
International transfer students will hear directly from the Office for International Students & Scholars (OISS) and the Office of International Student Engagement (OISE) over the winter with specific details regarding arriving in the United States and St. Louis.
For all transfer students, please visit newstudents.washu.edu to learn when your first mandatory orientation event will occur.
ACADEMIC TIPS
You can develop the skills for academic success here at WashU. To help you out, we’ve included a few tips that current students want to pass on to you.
ENROLL IN BEARPRINTS FOR SUCCESS
Bearprints is a one-credit, seven-week seminar designed to help you make a successful academic and personal transition to WashU. The course will introduce you to valuable academic success and learning resources, as well as support staff who are dedicated to enhancing your university experience.
THE SYSTEM TAKES ADJUSTMENT
The courses are not really harder, but for many, the system takes adjustment. There is consistent homework to do and turn in—in addition to many quizzes, projects, and exams. There are strict guidelines on academic integrity at WashU. Make sure you consult the syllabus and check with the professor about their policy on group work before working on assignments with others.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF HELP
Your adviser and professors will be your greatest sources of academic support. Reach out to them when you are struggling in a class or need guidance on how to study certain material.
VISIT THE LEARNING CENTER
The hub of academic support at WashU, The Learning Center, offers peer mentoring for key courses like calculus and chemistry.
REGISTER WITH DISABILITY RESOURCES
Connect with Disability Resources if you are seeking academic support or accommodations related to disabilities.
WAITLISTS ARE WORTH THE WAIT
A lot of students over-register or “shop” for classes in the first week and end up dropping a course or two. If you are on a waitlist, show up to class on the first day and talk to the professor about joining the course. Be sure to have some backup courses you’d be happy to stay in, just in case.
TAKE A SMALL CLASS
If possible, take a small class during your first semester. Whether you’re transferring to WashU from a large state university or a small liberal arts college, taking a small class is a nice way to meet other students, get to know a professor well, and become really engaged in an interesting topic.
CAMPUS LIFE TIPS
We want you to have a great experience while you’re here in St. Louis. Here are a few tips to ensure that you’re engaged inside and outside the classroom.
COME PREPARED
If you plan to live in privately managed apartments, it might help to map routes to local amenities and campus before arriving in St. Louis. If your apartment is unfurnished, you can order furniture online and have it delivered on the day of your arrival.
GET INVOLVED
Getting involved is, by far, the best and fastest way to meet amazing people and form lasting friendships. With literally hundreds of options to choose from, there is an activity or group for everyone. The Activities Fair on the first Friday of the semester is a good place to start!
EXPLORE CAMPUS
Begin exploring the campus as soon as possible to find your ideal study, hangout, and dining locations.
You can find shopping and dining guides at newstudents.washu.edu!
HOUSING OPTIONS
Off-campus residences are available for transfer students. WashU provides resources and services to assist students in finding housing. For information on how to search for an apartment or tips on navigating the leasing process, contact Residential Life at reslife@wustl.edu or 314-935-5050.
PRIVATELY MANAGED HOUSING
Apartment Referral Service (ARS) Quadrangle Housing Co.
GETTING AROUND CIRC
The Campus Circulator or “Circ” makes a continuous loop around main campus and is free for all students to ride. Using the WashU smartphone app, students can track the Circ location and schedule in real time.
DELMAR LOOP SHUTTLE
The Delmar Loop Shuttle (or “Loop Shuttle”) makes a continuous loop connecting main campus to The Delmar Loop and is free for all students to ride. Using the WashU smartphone app, students can track the Loop Shuttle location and schedule in real time.
METRO/U-PASS
WashU students receive a complimentary U-Pass through transportation services, which will allow them to use the St. Louis bus and metro systems.
ENTERPRISE CARSHARE
The Enterprise CarShare program allows students to rent a car by the hour. These cars are available at various locations across the WashU campuses and can be reserved online through the CarShare website. Students must apply for membership in the CarShare program. More information on CarShare for WashU can be found at parking.wustl.edu.
TAXI
Transportation by taxi is another option for traveling around St. Louis, particularly for travel to and from Lambert Airport. Two local cab companies are County Cab, 314-991-5300, and Laclede Cab, 314-652-3456.
WHAT TO EXPECT OVER THE SUMMER
Student Transitions & Engagement communicates with transfer students often throughout their first semester at WashU. This communication begins the winter before you arrive on campus. Below, we have detailed what you can expect to receive and accomplish this winter.
COMMUNICATION FROM STUDENT TRANSITIONS & ENGAGEMENT
In addition to New Bearings, you can expect to receive an e-newsletter from Student Transitions & Engagement throughout the winter. This newsletter, Bear Bulletin, has been specifically designed for transfer students and will provide important information about registering for winter courses, preparing for Winter Welcome, and more.
We send out Family Ties, the e-newsletter that bridges the information gap between WashU family members and life on campus, to all family members listed as contacts for their students. To ensure your family members receive updated information from the university, please confirm that the contact information listed for them on WebSTAC is correct. Your family can read past editions of Family Ties at families.washu.edu.
REGISTER FOR CLASSES
Registration varies depending on the academic division in which you are enrolled. You should hear from your transfer advisor in early winter. You can also find contact information for each academic division on page 6 of this publication and at newstudents.washu.edu
CONNECT WITH THE TRANSFER COMMUNITY
We invite you to join the 2024-2025 WashU transfer student community on Teams. This is a great place to meet the TX WUSAs, connect with peers in your transfer class, and stay up to date on important information leading up to Winter Welcome. We encourage you to use this space to ask questions and begin building your WashU community. To join the Teams chat community, please find the link in the January edition of the Bear Bulletin (sent to your WashU email) or email us at transitions@wustl.edu.
You will also hear from your TX WUSA later this winter. While all TX WUSAs will introduce themselves and answer questions in the Teams chat community this winter, your assigned TX WUSA will contact you personally before move in to welcome you to the WashU transfer community.
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE CHECKLIST
ESTABLISH ACCESS
• Activate your WUSTL Key
• Enroll in Duo two-factor authentication.
• Activate your WashU email account.
• Review and edit your WebSTAC user profile.
• Apply for your WashU ID
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
• Complete your Student Health Center requirements including the health history form, vaccination and immunization documentation, and health insurance waiver if needed.
• Transfer your prescriptions to the Quadrangle Pharmacy
• Contact the Student Health Center if you will require a referral for ongoing medical specialist care
• Contact the Center for Counseling & Psychological Services if you will require a referral for mental health care while attending WashU
PREPARE FOR ARRIVAL
• Apply for housing in the WashU Pathway, as soon as possible
• Complete the Winter Welcome Registration form in the WashU Pathway
• Sign the Transfer Experience waiver to participate in optional off-campus activities during Winter Welcome and the spring semester
• Connect with Disability Resources if you require accommodations due to an identified disability or have questions about specific disability-related concerns
• Complete the Academic Integrity module through Canvas
• Complete the Sexual Assault Prevention for Undergraduates course, which will be emailed to your WashU email
• Pack for Move-in Day!
