Are you returning to campus after the lockdown or are you a first-year? Has Covid made you feel socially awkward? Making friends in a new environment can be daunting, especially after 18 months of being stuck at home and looking through a computer screen. We may feel like it’s going to be a challenge to make new friends on campus as we either haven’t seen these people face to face or we’re meeting everyone for the first time. If you are unsure of where to start when it comes to making new friends on campus, keep on reading for some tips and tricks.
Joining clubs and societies is very important when it comes to meeting new and like-minded people. Although people in your course may have similar interests to you, other people in clubs and societies you want to join will be new faces and new people outside of your course. Making sure you get involved is key! Although you might feel awkward at first, everyone is so lovely and inclusive in all clubs and societies here in DCU. You are sure to feel welcome and included in everything you do.
If positions arise for a spot on a society’s committee that you want to join, be sure to put yourself forward! It may seem daunting, but it will be the best thing you ever do. Getting involved in the committee will not only give you life experience for the future but it will get you connected on a closer level with the people in the society.
Events are also always happening on campus! From nights out in the student bar, to lunchtime activities organised by the Students Union, there are loads of ways you can get involved in student life and make friends while you’re at it. The DCU Student Union has some amazing events lined up for the Freshers Homecoming event this year! These include Movie Nights and the Clubs and Socs Fair where you can get a taste of what Clubs and Socs offer and much more.
If you want to view an up to date calendar of events the SU have organised, you can visit their website at www.dcustudentlife.ie/whats-on
Starting college can be daunting, but DCU has some of the friendliest people, amazing societies and a range of activities to get involved in! Don’t hesitate to put yourself out there to meet new people. College is some of the best years of your life and you will make lifelong friends. Get involved, have loads of fun…but don’t forget to study hard! Enjoy the college experience as much as possible. You won’t regret it.