A person’s life can greatly change during their time in college. It’s a period of academic development, personal discovery, and, for many, the chance to make connections that will last a lifetime. College is more than just academics; it’s a rare opportunity to forge lasting friendships that can shape your future. It’s a time when people from various backgrounds come together, creating a unique environment for new connections.
However, making friends in college can prove difficult. In order to help you along this important part of your higher education experience, here are a few tips on how to make new friends in college.
- Go to Campus Events
Monmouth frequently hosts fall activities to welcome and educate incoming students within the campus community. The university hosts these gatherings with hopes of assisting newcomers in adjusting to their surroundings while also giving them access to campus resources, essential details about their academic journey, and a chance to mingle and meet friends. - Be Open-minded and Attentive
Being open-minded is one of the most important stages of friendship. Recognize that not everyone you meet will have the same interests or background as you. Accept variety and go into every interaction with an open mind and heart. With this mindset, you’ll be more personable and accepting of other people, which will open the door for genuine friendship.
In the effort to make friends, listening is a skill people often forget to practice. Be attentive and really interested in what others are saying when you are conversing. Ask them questions and pay attention to their answers. Show them that you care about what they have to say to foster better conversations. - Utilize Social Media
Social media platforms are effective tools for making acquaintances in the digital era. There are plenty of special pages and accounts for clubs and organizations on campus to help students connect with others online. Join these groups, keep up with school happenings on social media, and utilize these tools to start conversations and plan get-togethers.
It’s also helpful to follow other students on their social media accounts. It can help you better familiarize yourself with the community and can be a great way to connect with people when you meet them in person. - Make Friends in Class
One of the best places to start making friends is in your classes. You see your classmates regularly, giving you the perfect opportunity to start off a friendship naturally. Make conversation with those around you and ask for their phone numbers to plan study groups or to compare notes.
Ava Bovasso, a junior nursing student, commented, “For me, finding and making friends was through study groups with people in my major. It is easier to relate to someone when you are involved in the same things.” - Get Involved
A great method to meet people who share your interests is through participating in clubs, sports teams, or interest groups related to your hobbies and passions. These groups give you a place to meet new people who share your interests, helping you promote your personal and social growth while also providing you a much-needed break from your studies.
Gia Tandari, a junior nursing student, added, “Joining the debate team has helped me meet people out of the classroom and is a great way to get involved.”
The student-run clubs are organized around a variety of interests and pursuits. They range from hobbies and cultural affiliations to professional interests. Photography groups, debate club, environmental clubs, and cultural clubs are just a few examples. Through club meetings, events, and activities, you get the chance to socialize with others who have similar interests to your own.
If you like team sports and athletics, college club sports teams may be a great choice for you. You can make friends while also maintaining your physical fitness, whether you’re a competitive player or just looking for a fun way to stay active. Club teams on campus—field hockey, volleyball, and soccer being only a few—promote collaboration and unity among players.
Interest groups are typically more relaxed than clubs and can cover a variety of subjects and pursuits. These organizations bring together people who enjoy similar pastimes or interests, such as music, gaming, or hiking. - Greek Life
Fraternities and sororities are two types of social clubs that you frequently see on campus. These Greek organizations hold specific missions, ideals, and customs. Each one is unique and could be a perfect fit for you if you’re looking to make new friends.
It can be a wonderful and life-altering choice to join a sorority or fraternity. Through a common dedication to the organization’s beliefs and involvement in different social, philanthropic, and community service activities, members frequently form strong bonds and lasting connections. These organizations give members a sense of community and an established social network.
As corny as it sounds, remember to be yourself when trying to make friends. There’s no point in attempting to form connections when you’re not being your one hundred percent authentic self. You will find your place on campus if you put yourself out there and are open to meeting and socializing with new people.
