Wichita State University
Yovani Cruz
Yovani is a mechanical engineering major from Garden City, Kansas. He works for the Office of Admissions as a Transfer Guide after transferring from Garden City Community College.
Matt Crow/Undergraduate Admissions
Transferring from Garden City Community College to Wichita State University was a major change for me. The idea of going from a small town in southwest Kansas to the largest city in the state was terrifying. Thankfully, adjusting to my new lifestyle has been easier than I imagined. Here are five tips that helped me adjust quickly!
- Sign up for a mentorship program/success coaching
Mentorship programs allow you to get advice from someone who has been on campus for a while. You can ask them all the questions you have and they will help you get an idea as to what to expect. I signed up for the ACE Mentoring Program which is a mentoring program for incoming engineering students. I was able to meet someone who was studying the same major as I was and who had similar interests. Additionally, each program has a success coach. Their role is to help students develop essential skills that will assist their academic careers. - Find a group or organization that catches your interest
It’s scary not knowing anyone in a new environment, so why not try to meet new people who have similar interests as you? I had a friend who invited me to a HALO (Hispanic American Leadership Organization) event in my first semester on campus. I went and I made new friends! They made the transition less scary since they already had time on campus. - Attend some events on or off campus
There can be quite a bit going on in Wichita. Go to one of the many events the city has to offer whether it be watching a FREE Shocker basketball game or attending Open Streets ICT. There are so many things to experience. - Do community service
No better way to learn about the community than by helping the community! Wu’s Big Event is Wichita State's largest day of volunteering. It is a great chance to meet other students and members of the community as you all do your part in giving back. The Community Service Board is the place to go for more information on volunteering opportunities. - Try to spend as much time on campus as you can
Whether it be in the Rhatigan Student Center, Shocker Success Center or Woolsey Hall, being on campus gives you an opportunity to socialize and meet new people. Plus, by exploring campus, you get to learn more about the things Wichita State has to offer!