Like many incoming freshmen who just arrived at campus last week, this was probably your first big move in a long time. It’s hard to completely uproot your life and leave everything you know, so it’s ok to be out of practice. However, you and everyone in your freshman class are all in the same boat. Everyone starts from scratch when you get to college, so you might as well grow, learn, and surround yourself with good people. Here is a list of the best advice I can give from someone who has been in your shoes.
- Take Out your headphones
-
People are constantly talking so the last thing you want to do is miss out on an opportunity for conversation. Make yourself inviting by being present and immerse yourself in campus life. Time is temporary and you can listen to Lorde any time.
- Get involved
-
Whether it’s an academic, athletic, fun, or weird club, just put your name down and figure it out later. It’s better to be in too much and drop out, than to not be in anything. Organizations are great because they provide a centralized place to be.
- Don’t eat alone
-
Dining halls can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Invite your roommate, your roommate’s friends, people in your class, strangers on the street, or people in your dorm. Most likely, they won’t say no, and it could end up being a really cool experience. Be bold, but more importantly, be yourself.
- Study groups
-
Always try to find someone in your class to study with. This doesn’t just help you socially, but academically and mentally. Nothing is better than having a friend in class to bounce ideas off of.
- say yes
-
Obviously, don’t say yes to situations that are dangerous or uncomfortable, but don’t say no to someone just because it is a new situation for you. A lot of experiences come from situations you don’t plan, or late-night dinners you don’t expect, so always try to have an open mind to new people!
Hopefully, these tips will relieve your stress in finding friends because honestly, everyone is trying to find their people. Just remember that you are not alone, you are not behind, and you’ll find your niche in no time. Trust me, college will pass in a blink of an eye, and you’ll be so happy that you said yes on that one random Tuesday night.