How to Make Friends in College: 5 Practical Tips
Are you feeling anxious about making new friends as you prepare to start your first year of college? Don't worry—we have you covered! Our guide on college socializing can help you master the art of making friends during your first year. These new friends will be an essential part of your college experience, so putting effort into meeting new people is important. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to connect with others on campus; it doesn't have to be daunting.
How to Make Friends in College: 5 Practical Tips
Tip #1: Explore Clubs and Organizations.
Campus clubs and organizations are a great way to socialize and get to know new people who share your interests. By attending club meetings regularly, you can interact with like-minded individuals and develop friendships. Moreover, being actively involved on campus can have numerous benefits in building a strong sense of community and enhancing your college experience.
Pro tip: Most colleges and universities host annual activity fairs, allowing students to get to know the campus clubs and organizations available.
Tip #2: Dive into Campus Events .
In the initial weeks of school, universities organize various events to encourage student participation and help them connect with their peers. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet new people and make friends on campus. For instance, St. John’s University hosts various interactive events in and around their Queens, NY, campus, allowing students to explore their future home with other incoming students.
As there are numerous University events throughout the year, attending as many as possible is advisable. You never know who you might come across!
Tip #3: Turn Dorm Life into a Friend-Making Opportunity.
If you’re going to live on campus during your first year of college, take advantage of the opportunity to meet other people in your building. During the first week of school, it is common for other residents to walk around and introduce themselves. To encourage people to stop by, leave a sign or whiteboard on your door for them to write messages, or simply leave your door open. Resident assistants (RAs) often organize floor meetings or activities to help students living on the same floor get to know each other.
Watch a video capturing the energy of residence life at St. John’s University in Queens, NY.
Tip #4: Connect with Your Classmates.
Starting a new semester can be exciting and overwhelming, but introducing yourself to classmates makes a huge difference. You’ll probably find that you have similar interests or even the same major, so take advantage of this opportunity to connect. Don’t be shy about participating in class discussions; form study groups for upcoming exams. When working in small groups, take the time to get to know your group members. It's a great way to build connections and make the most of your college experience!
Tip #5: Make the Most of Your Orientation.
Are you about to attend your college orientation? Fortunately, this is an opportunity for you to make new college friends before the semester begins. You'll be split into small groups during the orientation for campus tours and fun activities. Get to know the other students in your group. Feeling a little nervous at first is okay—don’t be afraid to be yourself! Everyone else is probably feeling the same way.
Gain insights on navigating campus tours in the blog Unlocking Success: Essential Tips for Visiting Colleges Like a Pro.
Leverage St. John’s University Campus Resources.
If you are starting your higher education journey at St. John’s University, use the resources available to enhance your social experience and build lasting connections.
- Career Services for Networking Events: St. John’s University provides comprehensive career services beyond job placement. You can participate in various networking events organized by Career Services to meet students from various majors. These events offer an excellent opportunity to explore potential career paths and make new friends with similar goals in a relaxed setting.
- Campus Recreation and Wellness Programs: St. John’s University strongly emphasizes improving its students’ well-being through recreational and wellness programs. You can participate in fitness classes, intramural sports, or wellness workshops to maintain a healthy lifestyle and meet peers who share your interests.
- Multicultural and Diversity Initiatives: St. John’s has a great Office of Multicultural Affairs that organizes events to bring students from diverse backgrounds together. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet new people, learn about different cultures, and broaden your perspective.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, if you are concerned about making new friends in college, there are several ways to put yourself out there. Joining a campus club, conversing with a classmate, or introducing yourself to someone at a university event are just a few options. Don’t worry; it may seem daunting at first, but putting in the effort to make friends will make your college experience much more enjoyable.
