Transfer Student Orientation and Support

We are here to support your journey every step of the way!

At Southern, we offer a comprehensive range of resources designed to help you succeed from day one. Whether you're looking for personalized academic advising, engaging orientation programs, or additional support services, we’ve got everything you need to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Our dedicated team is committed to guiding you through the process so you can focus on achieving your academic and personal goals. Welcome to Southern — let’s start building your future together!

Student with Transfer Nation shirt

TRANSFERmation: Transfer Student Orientation

We understand that starting at a new institution can be overwhelming, which is why Southern offers multiple programs to support transfer students during their first semester. To ease your transition, we strongly encourage you to participate in either a TRANSFERmation Session or our Birdseye View program.

Program Goals

  • Start building social connections with fellow transfer students
  • Learn how to successfully prepare for your first semester
  • Meet Orientation Ambassadors and Transfer Student Assistants
  • Discover essential resources for academic, personal, and career success
  • Gain an understanding of Southern’s technology, a key tool throughout your college career

Southern is committed to making your transition as smooth as possible, and these programs are designed to set you up for success.

In-Person TRANSFERmation

January 7, 2025, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Register Now

Our in-person TRANSFERmation sessions are immersive, half-day programs designed to help you transition seamlessly to Southern. These sessions include:

  • A career-focused keynote presentation
  • Lunch in the dining hall
  • A comprehensive overview of Southern and its technology resources
  • Breakout sessions covering a variety of essential topics
  • Campus tours
  • Opportunities to connect with other transfer students, obtain your student ID, and secure your parking decal

Parking for in-person sessions will be at the Wintergreen Parking Garage, 109 Wintergreen Ave, New Haven, CT. Directions and Campus Map

Be sure to bring the following:

  • An electronic device (laptop, tablet if possible
  • Comfortable dress and walking shoes.
  • All meals and snacks will be provided at no cost

Join us for a TRANSFERmation session and get everything you need to start your Southern journey with confidence!

Virtual TRANSFERmation

Held via Zoom, Virtual TRANSFERmation sessions are two-hour programs which include a career focused keynote presentation, foundational overview of Southern and Southern technology, and opportunities to engage with other transfer students.

Register for Virtual TRANSFERmation below:

December 10, 2024, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. (Register Now)
January 10, 2025, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. (Register Now)

Birdseye View

Orientation, Transition, and Family Engagement offers new students a unique opportunity to experience campus through the eyes of a seasoned student. Our Birdseye Views provide much more than just a typical campus tour; they offer a personalized, 45-minute overview tailored to your specific needs and interests. Whether you're curious about academic buildings, student life, or key resources on campus, these individualized sessions are designed to give you an insider’s look at Southern.

Birdseye Views are scheduled by appointment only, ensuring you get one-on-one attention and a customized experience. To book your session, appointments can be made conveniently through SSC Navigate. Let us help you feel at home on campus and prepare for a successful start at Southern!

Transfer Student Transition Support and Opportunities

A Transfer Student Assistant (TSA) is an experienced upper-division student committed to supporting new transfer students throughout their first semester. TSAs will provide support throughout the first semester at Southern.

All new transfer students are required to schedule an advising appointment where they will receive a registration PIN. Please see the Next Steps page for more information and to schedule an appointment.

Today, over 225 other universities have established or are currently establishing Tau Sigma chapters in their efforts to improve the services that they provide to their transfer student population. Although Tau Sigma is a relatively young organization, many members in all parts of the country have become active at their universities, participating in such activities as on-campus recruiting events for prospective transfer students, transfer student orientation, community service projects, assisting the admissions office with the recruitment of prospective transfers at junior colleges, and participating in intramural sports and socials that allow them opportunities to socialize with one another and make new friends. Southern’s chapter of Tau Sigma holds induction every year. For more information contact Orientation, Transition & Family Engagement. 

Each month, we bring transfer students together through different programs including our engaging Munch and Mingle events, hosted by our Transfer Student Assistants. These casual gatherings provide a great opportunity to enjoy lunch, meet fellow transfer students, and build connections within the Southern community. Every session features a new activity, whether it's learning about a relevant topic, playing trivia, or exchanging ideas and experiences. It’s a fun, relaxed way to make friends, share insights, and get involved as you settle into life at Southern.

Southern proudly celebrates National Transfer Student Week, traditionally held during the third week of the semester. This annual event is dedicated to recognizing and honoring the unique journeys of our transfer students. Throughout the week, we host a variety of events, programs, and activities designed to celebrate and support transfer students, including the highlight of the week—our lively Transfer Student Carnival! It’s a fun and engaging way for transfer students to connect, get involved, and feel celebrated as an essential part of our Southern community.