Like many prospective college students, the single most intimidating fear I had before beginning my freshman year was not being able to make any friends. While making new friends may seem like a taxing chore, especially to someone like me who is shy and a little apprehensive, it is not impossible (and actually from from it). Within the first few hours on campus after arriving for move-in day, I quickly realized my fears were irrational and that making friends was going to be one of the easiest aspects of college. While making friends is an easy process that tends to come naturally to people, here are some ways that you can better immerse yourself into the social realm in college:
1. Do not be afraid to smile.
A small gesture like a simple smile goes a very long way. Whether you are walking down the hall in your dorm, across campus to class, or waiting in line at the dining hall, smile. Other people feed off of your body language and overall vibes, and by smiling people will feel more welcomed by your presence. People who feel more comfortable around you are more likely to approach you and start conversation.
2. Be friendly with your neighbors.
Your neighbors are likely to be some of the first people you meet when you arrive to your dorm. Living in a coed dorm, I have two guy neighbors and two girl neighbors, both of which have become close friends with my roommate and I over the past few months. While you do not have to be best friends with all of your neighbors, it is good to have people you can rely on to be there for you throughout the year.
3. Join clubs around campus.
Joining clubs or activities around campus is guaranteed to help you find your place and friend group on campus. Many colleges have hundreds of clubs that meet every need and like of each student. If you join a club that you have a passion for, you are bound to find other members of that club who share the same interests and goals as yourself. These are great friends to have because you can attend club meetings and events with a buddy!
4. Join intramural/club teams.
The most common misconception about joining a sports team in college is that you actually have to be adequate in the sport. Intramural and club sports teams are more focused on having fun and making memories than the competition. So pick a sport that you love, start or join a team, and go have fun with a bunch of people who have the same level of experience as you.
5. Talk in class.
While talking during class is normally discouraged, professors often encourage it so that their students have the chance to get to know one another. If you exchange numbers with the people next to you in the class on the first day, that's a couple more people than you knew when you walked in. Having a buddy in class is also helpful because you can work on homework together, study together, and text them with any class related questions you may have.
6. Participate in campus-wide events.
Whether you attend a thon to raise money or a sporting game, going to campus-wide event is bound to help you meet people. These events give you the opportunity to meet people outside of your year, dorm hall, and classes. The people who sit and cheer with you in the student's section and the people who help keep you standing at an all-day dance fundraiser just might shockingly be friends you will keep for life.
7. Do not give up.
It may at times feel discouraging if you have a lot of friends, but none that you are particularly close with. However, with time you will find your niche. There are so many people who are just like you and who compliment your personality on campus. It may take some time to find them, but once you do you will have them for life.
8. Be yourself.
Remember to always be true to yourself, and to never attempt to be someone who you aren't. You will not make friends this way and will not be happy if you do. You want to surround yourself with people who respect your true self and love that is for what it is. Embrace who you are, and find friends who cherish your quirks just as much as you do. This will not only provide great happiness but friendships that will last a lifetime.
