When you step onto campus, plenty of new opportunities and new faces are waiting for you. And while the idea of making friends in a new environment is intimidating for many people, the upside is that every other first-year student on campus is experiencing the same thing. Luckily, college campuses are designed to help you meet new people and make lifelong friends. Here are six ways to develop those lasting friendships in college.
Attend Campus Events
This might seem like a given, but once the semester is in full swing, it’s sometimes challenging to push yourself to attend campus events. What’s important is to build that habit early, so it never feels too intimidating.
Most college campuses host a series of events during the first week of classes or during move-in, commonly referred to as a “welcome week.” These events introduce you to student services and extra-curricular opportunities, but are also a great way to start building those connections with your classmates.
This welcome week is also the chance to experience some of your campus’ traditions. For instance, Allegheny College’s Weekend of Welcome includes its Late Night Breakfast and its Matriculation, a formal ceremony that officially welcomes new students to the campus community.
Everyone on campus is in the same position as you at these events, so don’t be afraid to sit with someone you don’t know. While everyone’s preferences are different, try to set a goal to attend at least four to five campus events each semester. They will also help alleviate stress by creating a balance between academics and your social life.
Join a Club or Organization
Joining a club or organization is the perfect way to form routine connections with people who share the same interests as you. The first few semesters of college are the time to try out different clubs — even the ones that you aren’t sure about.
Allegheny offers over 100 clubs and organizations, ranging from the Orchesis dance performance group to club sports like fishing club. You can even take a leadership role planning campus events by joining GAP, the Gator Activities Programming group.
Keep an eye out for your college’s involvement fairs, which are usually held at the beginning of each semester. At these fairs, clubs and organizations set up information booths, so students can connect with all their extracurricular opportunities in one space.
Remember: You don’t have to remain a permanent member of every club you join. From flag football to knitting to political activism, it’s important to try out new hobbies and interests. So go ahead, try that birdwatching club on for size!
Speak Up in Your Classes
Many types of college courses require class participation. While being graded for speaking up in a room of unfamiliar faces sounds unnerving, it will serve you in the long run and make you feel more connected with your peers.
Equally important, try and stay off your phone before classes start and engage with a classmate instead. Ask them about the most recent assignment, an upcoming exam, or a campus event. Push yourself to take that first step. Many people are feeling awkward and nervous during their first few weeks, and even those first few semesters, of college.
Likewise, unless you have to run to your next class, don’t rush out of the room once class is over. Take time to pack up your belongings and discuss the day’s lesson with the person sitting next to you. They’ll most likely be thankful they found someone they can talk with about their coursework.
Make the Most of Campus Spaces
From residence halls to library study rooms, college campuses are filled with community spaces that are perfect for making new and unexpected connections.
If you’re living on campus, you’ll likely encounter people in the hallways and common rooms. Don’t be afraid to start conversations, especially with those you come across repeatedly. In addition to enforcing residence hall rules, your Resident Advisor (RA) will also help you build relationships with your fellow hallmates. Those bulletin boards in the hallways and common rooms aren’t just there for decorations; they’re always promoting the latest social event hosted by your RA.
Beyond residence halls, dining halls and study rooms are other spaces designed for connection. Colleges often help create spaces that fuel student connection and teamwork, like Allegheny’ Grounds for Change (GFC). GFC is the college’s student-run, not-for-profit coffee shop that frequently hosts campus events. Not only can you meet new students there, but you can also volunteer with them to support the shop.
Above all, remember to take a chance and put yourself out there. If the dining hall is busy, ask to share a table with someone instead of going to eat back in your dorm room. If there’s someone you recognize from one of your classes, introduce yourself. Chances are they recognize you as well.
Explore Opportunities Beyond Campus Grounds
Opportunities to build connections doesn’t stop with the campus itself. Most college towns are welcoming to its students and host myriad opportunities for them.
Allegheny’s home, the City of Meadville, boasts a variety of community spaces and events for students to enjoy. From local coffee shops and bistros to outdoor recreation, the possibilities are endless. Exploring the local community helps students learn more about your new home, have fun with your peers, and feel part of the community.
Another way to build relationships is to make a difference. Students at Allegheny have the opportunity to serve over 30 local agencies in the surrounding Meadville area. By participating in these service opportunities, you’ll not only find new friends but support your new hometown.
Don’t Compromise Who You Are
It is true that everyone should try and build connections and friendships while they are in college. But it is also true that you should stay true to who you are in the process.
If you’re an introverted person, recognize that you aren’t going to be a social butterfly like some of your more extroverted classmates, and that’s okay. Balance finding awareness in your social battery and pushing yourself to get out there.
Moreover, be mindful of what you actually want within your friendships. Do you prefer a huge group of friends, or a more close-knit circle? Do you want friends who push you out of your comfort zone or meet you where you’re at? Would you prefer friends with the same interests as you, or friends who introduce you to new things?
If you start feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remember to stay true to your authentic self. With so many students on campus, you will find those who’ll cherish you for who you are.
Clubs and Organizations Student Life @ Allegheny