Starting college can feel overwhelming, even when you have friends by your side. Between challenging classes, an abundance of responsibilities, and the weight of the world on your shoulders, it is easy to feel a little lost. However building meaningful community while in college is not just possible, but can be transformative.
I know this firsthand. Even with my best friend beside me, those first few months at UC Davis felt surprisingly isolating. I missed the familiarity of home, the cultural connections, and the spaces where I felt completely understood. But as I started exploring different communities on campus, I realized that finding your place is not just about joining clubs or attending events. It is about discovering the spaces and people that reflect who you are and what matters to you.
For me, that meant seeking out communities that helped me stay connected to my Latin culture and my faith. Through Hermanas Unidas, I found a space where I could celebrate my background while giving back through service projects like tree planting. At the same time, I was looking for a spiritual community that felt like the right fit. After exploring different faith groups, I found Navigators, a space where I could grow in my beliefs and find support. Some spaces might not feel quite right at first, and that is okay. The important thing is to keep searching until you find the one that does. There are so many groups here on campus and in Davis that you are bound to find the community for you!
Keep in mind that community can also be built through shared purpose rather than just identity. One of the most unexpected ways I found connection was through volunteering at the Davis Night Market. I only go once a week, but Monday through Friday from 9-11pm, a group of community members gather to provide free food to anyone who needs it. What started as a way to give back with my bestie quickly became one of my favorite parts of the week. Between distributing supplies and the occasional impromptu jousting session, I found a group of people who share my passion for mutual aid and making a difference.
There is something just so powerful about being part of something bigger than yourself. While the state of the world and academics can feel overwhelming, focusing on what we can control and the impact we can make right here and now can help create a sense of purpose. Each vegetable handed out, each tree planted, and each meaningful conversation strengthens the bonds of community in ways that go beyond just feeling connected.
For anyone struggling to find their place, know that there are countless ways to build community. Maybe you are searching for cultural connection, exploring your faith, or looking for opportunities to serve others. Maybe you want to meet people who share your academic interests or creative passions. The key is to be open to new experiences and patient with yourself as you explore different spaces.
Building community is not just about what you receive, but also about what you give. The more you invest in the people around you, the more those spaces start to feel like home. It does not have to be limited to just one group either. Sometimes the most unexpected places bring the strongest connections.
Looking back on my journey from those early, isolating days to now, I am beyond grateful for the communities that have shaped my college experience. It took time, trial and error, and a willingness to put myself out there, but little by little I am finding my place—and you will too. Your community is out there, ready to welcome you in ways you might not even expect.
The journey to finding community might take time, and that’s okay. Some groups might not be the right fit at first, and that’s okay too. Keep exploring, keep showing up, and keep being open to connections. Because when you find your people, when you discover those spaces where you can truly be yourself, college becomes so much more than just classes and grades. It becomes a place where you belong.