The hard part is done! You have been accepted, the visa is on its way, now the focus is on moving into your new life! You might be wondering, where should I start? As an international transfer student myself, here is my best advice on how to approach this part of the process, making your life easier, so you can fully make it in NYC!
Packing
Bring ONLY the necessary things from your country and buy the rest here. This will save you a lot of space in your suitcase that you can use for other things!
If you come from a country where winter is not a thing, buy all the winter gear HERE! Favourites: Uniqlo (heat tech collection), Artizia (puffers and coats), Ugg (boots), Mango/Zara (coats and scarfs).
Housing
Although it is not guaranteed, I do recommend applying to get on-campus housing for (at least) the first year. You don’t have to deal with NYC real estate — which is a whole thing. NYU housing has a lot of events hosted by the wonderful RA’s which are a great way of meeting people, which is particularly helpful as a transfer. Your roommates/suitemates are a great resource to have; they are an immediate friend. It also gives you a year to get familiarized with the city. So if you do want to get your own place outside of NYU, you are more oriented on what areas you like! That being said, if you want to get your own place from the start, I recommend using Zillow or Streeteasy for the house search.
Arrival & Adapting Socially
Arrive a few weeks before Welcome Week. It gives you more time for adjustment, especially if you come from a different time zone. But it also gives you time to run all the important errands (bank account, sim card, etc.) I know this is not everyone’s cup of tea (same here), but attend Transfer Student events during Welcome Week! You already took a giant leap moving to NYC so expanding your confort zones is a great way to start fresh! Plus these events do help you meet other students who are living the same experience as you!
The Office of Global Services (OGS) has a some helpful workshops you should attend during those first few weeks (E.j: Working as an international student) Be very organized with all your international legal documentation, as it is information you will use constantly for travel, work opportunities, legal applications, etc.
Make an effort to find ways to connect with your home country. NYU has a lot of identity based clubs and events where you can connect with people from similar backgrounds as you! And also put yourself out there, go out and explore this new city! Attend Broadway shows (NYU Scholastix for discounts), go to museums (for free with your NYU ID), and get “lost” walking around the city! Don’t worry, Manhattan is on a grid with numbered streets, you can only get so lost”.
Adapting Academically
Be patient and give yourself grace! It is always a learning experience getting to know academically how NYU works, especially since it is probably very different than your previous school. Your transfer advisor will help you with class registration, contacting you soon after your acceptance! You will then be paired with your academic advisor from your school/program. This is your go-to for all your academic goals. Some schools (like Gallatin) have transfer seminars that help meet fellow transfer students! And especially, if you come from a non-English speaking country, it also takes some time getting used to doing work in english. Do not be afraid of utilizing NYU’s resources like the Academic Resource Center!
Although this might be an overwhelming process, trust that you made the best decision for yourself. This is something most people are not brave enough to do, so be proud of yourself. Adapting to a new place when you have already begun your college journey elsewhere takes time, but you will make it through I promise!
Related
The Transfer Student Experience at NYU
All about transferring to NYU, as told by three alumni who transferred here as undergraduates.
Being a Student at NYU—an International Perspective
NYU has a large community of international students, each with their own story of coming to NYU. Hailing from the land down under, Keiarn, shares her journey to NYU.
Embracing the NYC Internship Grind: Advice from an NYU Student
If you are interested in pursuing an internship at NYU, here’s some advice, so you can approach your application with confidence.