My first semester of college was difficult and I was so nervous when trying to make friends. I decided to go to a small private school in which none of my friends from high school were going to and that is 45 minutes away from home. With being thrown into a new enviornment and trying to make friends it was hard to get out of my comfort zone. Here is some advice I found helpful when wanting to make meaningful friendships in college during my first semster.
1. Join Clubs
Now I’m sure that this is the most common answer you are going to get, but it’s true! Getting involved with a club on campus is amazing. Not only do you get to make friends through the club, but you can also enjoy doing what you are passionate about. Some examples can be joining an art club or even an LGBTQ+ club. By being apart of something greater than yourself making friends can be super easy.
2. Go Greek
Now, I have only been in greek life for about two weeks, but there are so many people I’ve met and bonded with through both my sorority and just by going through recruitment as well. It’s a fun way to get involved on campus and gain such a great support system along the way!
3. Take Fun Classes
Now I know this one is kind of difficult to understand, but hear me out! This semester I’m taking a cardio kickboxing class and it is so much fun. It’s only one unit and it doesn’t take up a lot of time in my day. By taking a fun class here and there, that pushes you out of your comfort zone and you can bond with so many people by the love (or hate) you have for the class.
4. Get a Job
This can be on and off campus! By having a common area where people can relate to, friends can be easily made. You can make friends as well as get paid to do something you may actually enjoy. This is also an easy way to get work experience if you decide to get a job on campus!
5. Go to Events
There are so many events held throughout the year on college campuses. In my experience, I have made friends when waiting in line, singing at a concert, and bonding over how great the events were. These events tend to be free and you get free stuff out of them here and there.
6. Introduce Yourself to Someone Sitting Alone
By finding someone who is sitting alone, chances are they need a friend too! It is also such a great way to meet cool people that you probably would have never known if you didn’t walk up and talk to them. Most people in college are so nice and will not mind, even if you just want to sit with them!
7. Talk to People Who Live in Your Dorm
If you live in the dorms and find you keep running into the same person at the same time almost everyday, chances are your schedules line up. It is a great conversation starter and if you end up feeling awkward you’ll only have to say a friendly “hi” to them every once in a while.
I hope you found these tips and advice helpful, especailly if you’re new to your college journey and want to make new friends. Remember everyone is worried about making friends in college and you aren’t alone. There are tons of people out there who have the same passions and desires as you. All you have to do is find something you are passionate about and go from there!