by Shivani Vakharia
Transitioning to a new university can be an overwhelming experience, especially for transfer students who often feel like they’re starting all over again — socially, academically, and emotionally. As someone who transferred to the University of Central Florida, I understand that feeling firsthand. When I arrived at UCF, I was excited but also incredibly anxious. I didn’t know where to begin. I worried about whether I’d find my place, make meaningful friendships, or feel truly connected to the campus community. UCF is a massive university, and while that means there are lots of opportunities, it can also feel intimidating. But by actively engaging with several key resources at UCF, I not only found my footing — I found a home.
The first place that made a difference in my transition was the Transfer Center, located on the second floor of Trevor Colbourn Hall. I had no idea what to expect when I walked in, but I was immediately greeted with warmth. The staff didn’t treat me like just another student on a checklist — they took the time to ask about my goals, what I was nervous about, and how they could help me make the most of my time at UCF. They introduced me to services like academic advising, peer mentoring, and social events specifically tailored for transfer students. The Transfer Center even held meet-and-greet events, which helped me meet others going through similar transitions. I remember going to one of those mixers and meeting another student who had transferred from the same region I had. That conversation sparked a friendship that I still value today. The Transfer Center created an environment where I didn’t feel like I had to figure everything out on my own. It gave me both the information and the emotional support I needed to start feeling like I belonged.
Around the same time, I was looking for ways to stay involved in leadership — something I had been passionate about at my previous institution. I learned about Student Government through the Transfer Center and decided to apply to the Student Government Leadership Council (SGLC). At first, I hesitated. I wasn’t sure if there would be space for a transfer voice on a council that seemed designed for students who had been at UCF from the start. But I took a chance and applied. To my surprise, I was accepted—and that one decision changed everything. Through SGLC, I found a group of peers who were not only welcoming but also incredibly driven and inspiring. We worked together on projects and initiatives that impacted the broader student body, and I quickly realized that my transfer experience gave me a unique perspective that others appreciated.
Later, I was accepted into the Executive Leadership Council (ELC), a selective group for first–and second–year students. Even though I was a transfer student, I qualified as a sophomore and was thrilled to be part of the program. We met regularly to develop leadership skills, network with university leaders, and support each other through challenges. ELC introduced me to a tight-knit group of friends — people I could laugh with, study with, and lean on.For a transfer student, finding those kinds of bonds is so important. It’s hard to put into words how much that community meant to me. They became my people.
One of the most rewarding parts of being in Student Government has been the opportunity to network with UCF alumni and university leadership, including President Alexander Cartwright. Being in spaces where I could build professional relationships and hear from former Knights helped me better understand the long-term impact of involvement and how UCF continues to support students beyond graduation.
Another defining part of my UCF experience has been the University Writing Center (UWC). Located on the first floor in Trevor Colbourn Hall, the UWC provides free tutoring for students from fellow UCF undergraduate and graduate students. I had the opportunity of being a writing tutor at my previous institution and when I found out I would be transferring, I was saddened, knowing I would be leaving the role behind. Being a writing tutor had become such a big part of my identity, shaping me into the student I had become. Determined to keep doing what I loved, I reached out to the UWC before I even started classes. I had no idea if they were hiring, much less hiring someone who was new to the university, but to my surprise, they welcomed me with open arms and made my transition into the center seamless. Being part of the UWC helped me regain a sense of purpose. I was able to continue doing what I love: helping students develop their writing skills through brainstorming sessions, revisions, and confidence-building conversations.
More than anything, the Writing Center has become a safe space for me. Between tutoring sessions, I spend time there connecting with other tutors — many of whom have become close friends. I love the collaborative energy of the center, where we are constantly learning from each other. Working at the UWC has also helped me adapt to the academic standards at UCF, which are different from my previous school. Moreover, the professional development workshops and supportive feedback I receive make me a better tutor and a better student. I’ve grown so much as a writer, mentor, and team member through my work there.
Reflecting on my journey so far, I can say that the resources I engaged with — the Transfer Center, Student Government, and the Writing Center — not only helped me adjust to life at UCF, but also empowered me to thrive. Each space gave me something different: a sense of community, a platform for leadership, and a continuation of my academic passions. They helped me turn what could have been a lonely and confusing transition into a time of growth, connection, and discovery.
To any transfer student reading this: I hope you know that you don’t have to navigate this experience alone. The support systems at UCF are not just resources—they’re communities that want to see you succeed. Whether it’s walking into the Transfer Center, applying to a leadership program, or joining a team of student tutors, there’s a place here for you. Your journey matters, and your voice belongs. UCF may be a big campus, but with the right support, it can feel like home.
