Along with the warm air and blooming flowers, spring brings us the great gift of college acceptance letters. Current high school seniors are preparing for their first year of college and I, a seasoned college student, should help these poor souls get ready for the next four years of their life. While knowing how to study and sign up for classes is important, you're also going to want to make friends. So, here are a few tips on how to trek through a college social life and gain some new pals.
First things first, make yourself seem as unavailable as possible. Nothing screams “friend material” more than looking like you hate the world. When walking through campus or attending an event, always keep some headphones in your ears and stare only at the ground. This is a stellar way to make people want to talk to you. Once they see how closed off you look, they'll be overcome with the urge to start a conversation. If they aren't breaking down your door within two days of trying this, consider buying new headphones. That's likely where the problem lies.
Next, don't frequent the same places. When you do this you're likely to run into the same people and that's never a way to start friendships. Instead, once you go to one spot on or around campus, never go back. This way, you'll constantly meet new people and broaden the range of people you know. So the first time you go to your math class should be your last. The first time you enter the dining hall will be your last. Move-in day to your dorm means saying “hello and goodbye” to your roommates. Doesn't this sound like fun? While constantly having to make sure you don't revisit a location twice can be somewhat of a hassle, you'll be rewarded with a plethora of new friends!
Finally, don't take part in any extracurricular activities or social events. I mean, sure, they're a great place to meet people, but what kind of message does that send? If you're off joining clubs and attending parties, it tells people that your schedule is far too full to make time to hang out with friends. Instead, make the wise decision to head straight to your room the second classes are over. Once there, patiently wait for the overwhelming amount of friend-craving people to break through your door. The fewer people who see you the better. It helps them think you're just eager to make plans. Follow these few tips on how to enjoy the college social life and soon you'll befriend the entire school! Enjoy!
