One of the most intimidating parts of starting college is the fact that you’re in a new environment with people you’ve never met before, which for some means a terrifying thing – having to make friends out of strangers. If you are a freshman or a transfer you are more than likely leaving behind your group of friends and braving the new environment alone. You’ll need to find a new support system, people you feel comfortable around, and people that will be there for you to make your college experience the best it can be. We all know how scary this can be, so here are some tips to help get you started on your journey!
Go to Campus Events
I know that sometimes the events can seem cheesy, but they’re a great way to meet people that go to your school! Go into it with an open mind and try to strike up conversations with the people around you; you can even use the event as a talking point to get the conversation going. Plus, they usually have free food and merchandise which is always a bonus! Being involved on campus is an important part of meeting people, and going to the events that your school plans will not only give you the opportunity to meet some like-minded people, but they usually end up being a fun time!
Join Clubs on Campus
As a part of Her Campus, this might be a little biased of me, but I can genuinely say the clubs I am a part of on campus introduced me to some of my lifelong friends. They’re a great way to meet people that you might not have met before if you’re in different majors or grades! Club meetings also bring together people with a shared interest, which is a good starting point to build a relationship off of. Go to the general members meetings to meet people, talk to the e-board, and involve yourself on campus! Clubs also usually do some very fun events that are open to all students and are an awesome way to participate in the school culture.
Force Yourself Out of Your Comfort Zone
If you are not someone who is the most at ease striking up conversations with strangers, college is a great way to force yourself out of your comfort zone. Everyone is really receptive to most conversations because they are also looking to form a friend group, especially if this is their first semester at the school! Try to go to events that you wouldn’t usually go to, join clubs that might be outside your normal interests, and give everyone a fair chance. A great way I met my hallmates my freshman year was leaving my dorm room open to allow people to come in and see the room while chatting to me and my roommate. I also made use of the communal kitchen to bake things that I shared with the hall, which gave me the opportunity to meet everyone that came in the kitchen and also leave a really positive impression! The smallest interactions could lead to lifelong friendships so try to be kind, put yourself out there, and be true to yourself!
And Above All Else…
Remember that you are not alone! Everyone is feeling the same way as you are and are looking to make friends. These will be some of the best years of your life, so find people that make you feel comfortable, supported, and appreciate you for who you are! Not everyone you meet will be your best friend, but if you keep trying you will find the people that will become your family away from home.