From first-years to seniors, college students around the world have been acclimating to a new normal under the COVID-19 pandemic. Amidst these unprecedented circumstances, social distancing regulations and the use of masks can often feel like social barriers, especially during a time in which students are yearning to make friends and develop their social circles. It can be a challenge to cultivate close relationships while maintaining physical distance, and making new friends is undoubtedly harder now as you aren’t able to just strike up a conversation with those next to you in a lecture or attend a big event with your floormates. With that being said, making friends is still very much possible; different yes, but certainly possible. Here are five tips to adjusting to college life under the new normal:
- Join Clubs
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Clubs can be an excellent medium to engage with others over common interests and ideas. Club meetings, even if they are virtual, help foster meaningful social interaction because you are all there for a common purpose. Oftentimes there are icebreaker activities and fun games where you can get to know each other in an environment that does not feel forced or awkward, unlike how breakout rooms created by your professor may feel. From clubs you can find like-minded people with whom you can get close with through discussions and projects. I have personally been immersing myself in the social scene at BU through joining multiple clubs, even if they are all virtual. I highly recommend taking the initiative to join organizations that you are passionate about and to be active in the community. Not only will it help develop your passions, but it will also help create long-lasting relationships and memories. ☺
- Organize Virtual Study Groups
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Although 300-student Zoom lectures can make close-knit socializing “virtually” impossible, there are likely several people within that class who would appreciate a group of people with whom they can study with. Even if it’s through a virtual space, studying with others can help instill the class material through collaboration while also making meaningful connections. I highly recommend reaching out to some people in your classes and seeing if they would be interested in creating a group chat where you can organize virtual meetings, discuss the homework, prepare for tests, or make plans to meet up in-person (in a socially distanced fashion, of course!).
- Plan Socially Distanced Activities
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Staying safe and responsible throughout the pandemic does not mean you have to stay cooped up in your room throughout the whole day. You can still engage in several activities that adhere to COVID-19 guidelines; some ideas include having a picnic, going on a run, exploring neighborhoods near campus, and more. This way, you are making friends and creating worthwhile memories while still being a responsible citizen. I personally love to walk along the Charles River Esplanade, grab a bite at Newbury Street, and hang out at the Boston Public Garden with some friends. There are tons of fun and enjoyable activities to do even under “the new normal” if you just take the initiative to reach out to those who are also longing to make new friends and enjoy somewhat of a normal college experience.
- Use Social Media
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Social media has been an extremely powerful tool for overcoming social distancing. In an era in which we must keep six feet apart, social media has allowed us to remain close to each other, possibly closer than ever before. With the cancellation of in-person plans and events, most people have increased their use of social media, both to hold onto some extent of normalcy and to avoid feeling alone during these isolating times. There are so many ways to get involved in social media even if you are not a fan of a specific app, as there is something out there for everyone. For me, Instagram in particular has been a very significant tool in making college friends, as I’ve found that people reach out to you after solely seeing a mutual school in your bio. Instagram has allowed me to directly connect with my classmates in a way that isn’t awkward or difficult. Apps like Snapchat and TikTok have also helped me keep up with peers and find other students who are living similar experiences. Honestly, I accredit a lot of my sanity over the past several months to social media outlets!
- Prioritize Self Care
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Don’t forget, that above everything else, your well being is still the most important, especially during these unpredictable times. It is okay if you don’t feel your absolute best every day, but make the conscious effort to take care of yourself. Sprinkle in some acts of self-care throughout the day, whether it be wearing your favorite outfit, exercising, buying a delicious iced tea, or organizing your desk. Don’t beat yourself up if you are not able to make as many friends as you had hoped because, at the end of the day, we are all in the same boat! Make sure to take it easy and take the time to breathe and reflect. After all, there’s nothing a face mask and your favorite music can’t fix!
No matter where you are studying, take care of yourself, and get involved on campus!
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