Let's face it. Whether you're an incoming freshman, transferring from another school or even going into your senior year, making friends in college is HARD. College is nothing like high school where the same class stays together and grows closer for four years, people are shuffling in and out of semesters. Your best friend that you make after having three classes together one semester, could graduate or have all their classes on the other side of campus next year and you'll rarely see them again.
I get it, some of you might say, "I don't need to make friends, I'm here to get my degree and get out!" Yeah, yeah I get it. Some of y'all just hate people. But some of y'all are just plain awkward and have no idea how to talk to people because all you do is stare at your phones all day!
So, take it from a girl that scored 98 percentile extrovert on her Myers-Briggs test, if you're going into college and need help making friends, here's some tips to help you branch out!
1. Don't let anyone eat alone.
I know, this may sound crazy, but it might help you make a new friend! You're walking through the cafeteria and you see someone sitting by themselves...sit down with them! What can go wrong in one meal? Or vice versa, you're sitting in a group of people and you see someone alone looking for a place to eat, invite them to sit with you! Maybe you'll make a new friend and it'll probably make their day that you thought of them.
2. Speak up more in class.
No one likes a teacher's pet? I beg to differ. If you prove that you know what you're talking about in a class and you contribute (not dominate) class discussion, people will want you to be in their group for group projects or be their study partner. Or if that doesn't work, you'll make friends with your teacher because teachers LOVE when their students make an effort in their classes, even if they say the wrong things.
3. Join a sport or a student organization.
Whether it's Greek life, intramurals, Anime Club, student government, a student work study, or playing on one of the university's teams, all of them will give you a chance to meet other people who have the same interests as you. Usually these teams, groups, clubs or jobs have games or events available for anyone to go to where you can go meet new people and have fun!
4. Go to a party.
Why not right!? It's what college is all about! Now, I'm not saying you should hang out with these people all the time or let partying rule your life, but parties are always a fun way to meet new people!
5. Be more open-minded.
In college, you will find some pretty strange people that came from backgrounds way different than yours, and that's okay. So what if your new friend doesn't share your political views, your religion or all the same interests as you? You'll learn more about life just from being friends with them, and that's a beautiful thing!
6. Be persistent.
It's all good if the first friend you make doesn't end up being your best friend for life. You and your roommate might not have a ton in common right away, but give it time and your relationship will get better. No matter how tough college gets, don't give up. Chances are, all your other classmates are going through the same thing.
