Making friends can be a scary thing when you're heading off to college with a bunch of people you don’t know. The good news is whether it feels like it or not every incoming freshman is in the same boat with a lot of the same lingering thoughts. Here are a multitude of ways to help you learn how to make friends while getting comfortable in a new environment.

 

1. Join Clubs and Organizations:

Participate in clubs and organizations that align with your interests. Whether it's a sports team, academic club, or hobby group, shared interests make it easier to connect with like-minded individuals.

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2. Attend Orientation Events:

Orientation events are designed to help students meet each other. Attend as many orientation activities as possible to meet people in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

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3. Volunteer for Campus Events:

Offer to volunteer at campus events or student-led initiatives. This not only allows you to contribute to the community but also provides opportunities to meet and connect with fellow volunteers.

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4. Attend Social Mixers and Parties:

Participate in social events organized by the college, such as mixers, parties, or game nights. These settings are often conducive to meeting new people in a casual and fun atmosphere.

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5. Study Groups:

Join or form study groups for your classes. Collaborating on coursework not only helps academically but also fosters friendships with classmates.

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6. Residence Hall Activities:

Attend events organized within your residence hall. From floor dinners to game nights, these activities create a sense of community and provide opportunities to get to know your neighbors.

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7. Use Social Media and College Apps:

Connect with your college community on social media platforms and college-specific apps. Many colleges have dedicated groups or pages where students can share information and arrange meetups.

 

​8. Take the Initiative:

Don't be afraid to initiate conversations. Whether it's in class, at a club meeting, or in the dining hall, a friendly "hello" can go a long way in starting a conversation.

 

9. Attend Freshman Events:

Freshman-specific events are designed to help newcomers connect. Attend these events to meet others who are also looking to make friends.

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​10. Participate in Intramural Sports:

Join intramural sports leagues or casual pickup games. It's a great way to stay active and meet people with similar interests in a relaxed environment.

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11. Explore Shared Hobbies:

If you have specific hobbies or interests, explore local clubs or communities outside of the college campus where you can meet people who share your passions.

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12. Attend College Workshops and Lectures:

Engage in workshops, lectures, or speaker events on campus. These gatherings attract people with similar academic interests and provide opportunities for discussion and networking.

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13. Be Open-Minded:

Approach social situations with an open mind. Be open to meeting a diverse range of people, and don't hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.

 

​14. Participate in Orientation Trips:

If your college offers orientation trips or retreats, consider signing up. These experiences often lead to close connections as you share new and adventurous experiences with fellow students.

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15. Utilize Common Areas:

Spend time in common areas like the library, student center, or campus coffee shops. These places are often hubs for social interaction, and you might bump into people with similar schedules or interests.