With an undergraduate community of over 40,000 students, it would be an understatement to say that the University of Washington is a large university. With that being said, it can be tough to find your community and your people. Lectures with 700 people and no on-campus living requirements don’t help that either. However, your people are out there! Here are my tips and tricks to finding your community at UW.
1. Join an Rso
One of the most fun ways to make friends with similar interests as you at UW is by joining one of the many RSOs. There is such a diversity of clubs at UW: from cultural ones, to major-specific ones, to fashion and art. There’s something for everyone!
2. try out an intramural sport
Intramurals at UW are a great way to get active, get outside, and meet people! You can sign up for an intramural team through IMLeagues and many of the games happen at the IMA!
3. check out greek life
While Greek life may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the fraternities and sororities at the UW offer welcoming communities to all undergraduate students! You can go through formal recruitment at the start of the school year or choose to rush/join a Greek organization throughout the year. From philanthropy events to days spent bonding with your member class, there are so many opportunities to meet new people through the Greek community!
4. create a study group
A lot of times in the big lectures, we tend to sit in the same area every class. Reach out to the people sitting next to you – it may seem scary, but they’re probably in the same boat as you! Exchange numbers, make group chats, and form study groups!
5. connect with friends from home
If you have friends or classmates from your hometown at UW, don’t hesitate to reach out! It’s always comforting to see a familiar face even every once in a while. You might even make connections with some of their friends and roommates, continuing to build your community and friendships!
Don’t let the big university aspects of UW scare you too much! Your community is out there and ready to meet you!