Is it too 'risky' to enter a new university as a junior?

Transfer Students
1

I want to transfer because my academic needs and career-interests cannot be satisfied at my current institution.

But entering a new university as a junior just feels so risky. At my current university, I’m fairly well known and respected as a student leader, I’ve started several projects, I have great relationships with faculty, and most importantly I have fantastic friends. I lose all that (temporarily at least) in transferring.

I want to transfer, but it makes me really nervous that I’d have to hit the ground running… and the risk that I’m not going to have the same relationships/leadership in a new university is a fairly frightening.

I’ve moved several times (every other year since I was 6) in my life so adapting to a new environment is not new too me – but it seems like in university there’s no time/room for an adjustment period.

I suppose everyone takes this risk when they transfer, juniors especially. Am I just ruminating or is this anxiety valid?

2

I think you should consider the “risk-benefit”. Are your relationships at your current institution more valuable than the PROSPECT of PERHAPS gaining equally as valuable (if not more valuable) relationships at a new institution?

Are you willing to spend time and energy attempting to form brand new friendships?

IMO, I don’t think it’s particularly risky, per say. Friends and connections are just another factor to consider. If I were you, I’d put my career and future as priority number 1.