Making friends in college can be hard. For maybe the first time in your life, you’re in a sea of people you don’t know and you can’t seem to remember how you made friends when you were a kid. This can be especially difficult if you go to a big school like Pitt. If you’re a freshman or an upperclassman looking to expand your social circle, you’ve probably heard that you should join a club. But what club should you join if you’re looking to make friends? Look no further than here:
1. A club relating to your major
This is one of the most beneficial ways to make friends. Not only will you meet people who share a common interest with you, but you will meet people in your field! As a result, you’ll have plenty to talk about, while networking and helping each other with assignments at the same time.
2. A club relating to one of your passions
This is also a no-brainer. If you have something in common with someone, you’re more likely to strike up a conversation. If you like theater, try out for a play. If you like animals, join an animal lovers club. If you like music, join a music club. There’s probably a club on campus that suits at least one of your interests
3. Greek life
Greek life is a great way to meet friends. When you rush a Greek organization, you’re paired with people who have similar values as you. They also have tons of events other than parties, such as philanthropy work, bonding events, and study groups. And if social Greek life isn’t your thing, join an academic or service Greek life organization! You’ll still find people who share your values, and you’ll still have tons of activities to do with them.
4. A club sport
A club sport is a great way to make friends because in a sport you have to work together and communicate. You don’t even have to be athletic or on a D1 team. Join an intramural team or start a pickup game with your floor mates or classmates who are probably just as skilled at sports as you are.
5. A club for your identity
If you identify with a certain race, sexual orientation, gender or identity, there’s probably a club for others just like you! You can meet people who are like you and perhaps have had some of the same experiences you have, and you can have a safe space to turn to if needed. Examples of these could be a women’s organization, a rainbow alliance/LGBTQ pride club, black action society, ect.
6. Your Her Campus chapter!
Of course, who could forget your school’s Her Campus chapter? You’ll be surrounded by an amazing group of women who are friendly and unique. You don’t even have to like writing — you could join HC’s Public Relations or Social Media team. Also, HC hosts tons of events, like at HC Pitt, we have a late-night cookie sale, Her Campus Night Out, group dinners, fundraisers, you name it.
You can easily find friends if you join any of these clubs, but most importantly, when joining any organization, you get out what you put in. Help out as much as you can. Go to multiple events and introduce yourself to people. No matter where you join, being involved is what makes the difference.
Photo Credit: