Whether you’re a freshman who is experiencing college for the first time, a transfer student looking for new friends, or a returning student who wants to broaden their network, college is the prime time to build a support network of people. However, sometimes trying to build the foundation to a network of friends is intimidating. Luckily, if you attend BSU, there are lots of ways to build yourself a strong group of friends.

1. Keep your door open.

Keeping your door open is one of the best (and easiest) ways to meet new people. My freshman year, my door was open any time I was in the room. Because I left my door open, I was able to know the name of every person on my floor. It was great because people would always stop and visit or say hi when I had my door open. I made a lot of friendships just by leaving my door open.

2. Go to the Activity fair.

Ball State has over 400 student organizations for students to be involved on campus and around the Muncie community. Organizations range from major-specific clubs to special interest clubs. There’s runners club, equestrian club, volunteer organizations, multicultural organizations, and many more. The Activity Fair is usually during the first week or so of classes in the Recreation Center. I HIGHLY recommend going to this event because you can talk to so many people and get lots of great information about involvement. http://cms.bsu.edu/campuslife/studentlife

3. Go to the College of Communication in Media (CCIM) SuperParty.

Each semester, the College of Communication, Information, and Media holds a giant event with all the CCIM organizations and student media. There is free pizza, a cake walk, and a ton of booths with CCIM student organizations eagerly recruiting some potential new members. People from any major can join most of the organizations and going to the SuperParty is a great way to feel out the College of Communication, Information, and Media. The Fall 2017 SuperParty will take place Wednesday, August 30th from 6-7:30pm in the Arts and Journalism Building.

http://cms.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/ccim/academics/internshipsactivitiesandopportunities/studentorganizationsandmedia

4. Go to football games and other sports events

Gather up a group of friends and head to the tailgate or sporting event. Putting yourself in social situations like these are good practice to meeting new people without putting a lot of pressure on yourself.

(To get you started, here’s the 2017 Football Schedule: http://ballstatesports.com/schedule.aspx?path=football).

5. Join an intramural league.

Love sports? Don’t have all the time (and money) to dedicate to a school-organized sport? Join an intramural sport! You play in tournaments with other teams and enjoy some quality time building relationships with teammates. Ball State has a TON of different options such as volleyball, basketball, flag football, and many more! If you can’t find a full team, you can also sign up to be a “free agent.” For more info, visit: http://www.dosportseasy.com/bsu/

6. Go to study sessions.

Keep those grades up with friends!!!

7. Talk to the person in your class.

You know that person that sits next to you in that one class? Yeah, talk to them. Make light conversation or ask them questions!

8. Get a job on campus.

As a sophomore, I didn’t expect to meet many new people or make lots of new friends. However, last year, I worked at one of the residence hall on campus and I became really close with many of my staff members. Working on campus opens lots of opportunity to make friends with coworkers who also go to Ball State. To find an on campus job, stop by the career center and check out the Cardinal Career Link! http://cms.bsu.edu/about/administrativeoffices/careercenter/ccl

9. Get involved in Housing and Residence Life.

At Ball State, you can get involved in housing and residence life in many ways. Join your residence hall council, attend Residence Hall Association’s general meetings, or join another housing organization! Also, pro tip: If you’re interested in becoming a Residents’ Assistant, being involved in housing is KEY! http://cms.bsu.edu/campuslife/housing/getinvolved

10. Introduce yourself to your professor.

Professors can be some of the coolest people ever. They have worlds of knowledge and can help offer you great opportunities to advance your career. Make sure to introduce yourself to them at some point!

11. Go to RA events.

Some people think that only kiss-ups go to RA events, but there is nothing wrong with attending them. It not only connects you with people who live with you, but it also helps you build a good relationship with your Resident Assistant. The RA’s work so hard to make sure their residents are comfortable and achieving success, so going to their programs is one of the best ways to thank them.

12. Come out of your room!

Even if you don’t leave the residence hall you live in, try and spend some time in common lounges. By hanging out in the lounges, you can still chill like you are at home, but there are plenty of people around to meet.

Many colleges have similar opportunities as well, but for all of those Cardinals out there these are some of the best way to branch out! Take advantage of as many opportunities to branch out! It makes life more enjoyable and slightly easier!

P.S. Have any questions about being involved? I'd be happy to answer any questions! Comment or follow me on social media and send me a message (Instagram and Twitter: @MovesLikeMenke)