Hmm. Trans name and college

[PsychoAnalytical]

I'm fishing around for some opinions here. I'm an FTM soon to start my second semester at my current college and I want to start presenting more as a guy. First and foremost I wish not to be called by my legal name which is clearly female.

However, all my classes are with professors I had last term thus they know me by my legal name. I'm hesitant to make them feel a bit awkward by learning to call me by a male name (and risk them slipping up), yet I do not want my real name used.

What do you think? Should I find a gender neutral name, go by initials, or screw it and go by my chosen (and more fitting, might I add) name? I'd be pleased to hear your opinions/suggestions.

[Mikey]

Oh wow, I can understand why you would think this is a difficult decision. I, myself, have never considered the thought of changing my name but I think you should stick with what YOU prefer/want. You should choose the name you think you'd enjoy best with because you're the one.. using the name? I'm sorry for my jumbled mess of advise but I thought I'd just add that you should stay true to yourself and it's your own opinion that matters most.
Hope everything works out!
-Mikey.

[PsychoAnalytical]

Thanks That's some good advice. It's just a little nerve-wracking given the nature of the situation

[Kate*]

I can see why you wouldn't want to announce it in front of the class when they ask for nicknames and preffered names. I would suggest talking to them after class, if they ask about it give them as much or as little detail as you want, they pretty much treat you like an adult so they shouldn't ask too many intrusive questions. I would pick the name that you like the best, since you will have to live with it, but remember that the college won't officially change it until you have it legally changed.

[losing touch.]

i'd say go for it and get people to call you by the name that you want. don't feel like you have to go by a name that you're uncomfortable with just to please other people or avoid them feeling awkward. if you're really worried about it though, maybe go by your initials? i think that's a good idea. :]

[PsychoAnalytical]

Thanks guys. I'm definitely considering your advice, but I don't know yet what I'll do. I might wind up going with "Jay" this semester if I feel cautious (my name starts with "J" and I figure its a good, all-around neutral name/initial), but then again, perhaps its good to introduce my truly desired change sooner rather than later.
*puts your advice in my pocket for future reference*