Being involved on a college campus is one of the biggest things I suggest to any incoming freshman. Coming on to Mansfield University’s campus I was already planning on being cheerleader. Now as a second semester freshman, I am involved so much on campus and I have met so many people through these groups.

Currently, I am involved in cheerleading, intramural soccer, I am a student worker in the education department, Odyssey (I am the Social Media Director for Mansfield’s team as well as a content creator), Mountie Ambassador (campus tour guide), I am apart of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), and I represent the cheer squad in the clubs: Colleges Against Cancer (CAC), Student Athlete Activities Council (SAAC), and Relay for Life.

Mind you, I am a dual major in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. I also recently declared a minor in Professional Writing. I was very busy in high school so I like to keep busy, but keeping busy in college is completely different. I thought I’d put together a little list of things you could do to help you get involved and make friends.

1. Go to the Organizational Fair.

Typically, your first week on a college campus, there will be an organizational fair. Here, all organizations will have a booth set up so incoming freshman can talk to them and see what they want to join. Even if you aren’t going to join that club, still stop by an introduce yourself. Who knows who you’re going to meet, maybe your best friend?

2. Leave your dorm room door propped open the first week.

This will help you make SO MANY new friends. I met a few of my best friends this way. It’s amazing how many people will stop in and just say hi or come in and complement your dorm room!

3. If you see a door open, stop in.

This follows with the last, if you see a door open stop in and say hi or complement them. I met so many people and some of them were even in my classes! Walking into your first college class is scary, knowing a familiar face is always helpful.

4. Don’t be scared to introduce yourself.

If you think someone is cute, introduce yourself. You can’t be scared to make friends. If it goes poorly then hey who cares? It’s a good size campus and you may never see them again.

5. Don’t be judgmental.

You will meet so many different types of people. I know that since I came from a small town, college is full of different people. Don’t be judgmental and you won’t have an issue making friends. You just have to keep an open mind and try new things.