7 ways to Make Friends in College
BY JANE HURST
College is the next step in your new life. You are growing and being exposed to new ideas and things. While college is an exciting prospect, you may be worried about making new friends. Here are seven ways to make new friends in college.
1. Classes
Going to class is not only good for your GPA, it is also a great way to meet new people who share your same interests and make new friends. Classes offer a small environment to get to know people. Bonding over homework and reading can lead to great friendships. Starting a study group with people you get to know will give you a good excuse to meet with them outside of the classroom.
- Campus clubs
There are many different clubs and organizations on campus. You should pick a couple and try them out. There is no pressure to stay in a club you do not like, so you can pick and choose. Find a club that interests you and you should find people who you want to get to know better. Hanging out in a club or organization will get you out of your dorm and around new people. Chances are you will make new friends within a few weeks.
- Organize outings
You and your roommate can organize some outings for your floor. You can all meet at a local diner or coffeeshop to talk and get to know one another. Having a friend on your floor can help you through rough times during your college career. Not everyone will get along, but trying to find common ground and bond with your floormates will help your semester run smoother.
- Get off campus
Take a night or two to get off of campus and find fun things to do in the town or city. You might find a club or mall to go to or you can find a local dance studio. Dance studios usually have fun classes like swing dance lessons or polka nights. You can go by yourself or take some acquaintances along for a fun night out.
- Campus orientation
Make sure you go to any campus orientation events. They will help you get ready for your college life and help you make new friends and acquaintances. Usually an orientation session is held before school starts, but most dorms and campuses offer freshman fun activities and new orientation meetings throughout your first semester.
- Be yourself
Do not try to be anyone but yourself. It may be tempting to do things you are uncomfortable with in order to make new friends, but if you are not yourself then those friends are not your real friends. Relax and enjoy your college experience. Get comfortable with your dorm and campus and you will make friends in no time.
- Eat on campus
Eating on campus will help you meet new people and make new friends. Unlike high school, the campus dining areas are more laid back. Some people socialize and others work or read while they eat. If you keep on eating around the same time you will notice the same people eating with you. This is a good way to make new friends on campus.
While you may be scared and uncertain the first few days of college remember that all the other freshmen feel the same way. Be yourself and put yourself out there. Go to campus events, eat in the dining hall, and join organizations. Take time to get to know life off of campus and you will soon make new acquaintances that could turn into friendships. During college you will make friendships that will last the rest of your life.
Byline:
Jane Hurst has been working in education for over 5 years as a teacher. She loves sharing her knowledge with students, is fascinated about edtech and loves reading, a lot. Follow Jane on Twitter.
