The double-edged sword of college friendships is unfortunately tragic. At first, everyone is scrambling to make new friends like it’s the first day of kindergarten, and things stay good for a while. However, distance inevitably gets in the way of these new found companions. Either you’re separated over the breaks, or you end up moving to different states after you graduate, and it’s devastating. However, there is hope. With a little effort, here are some ways you can keep your friends close, despite the distance.
1.Write each other letters. Social media may seem like the best way to see what’s going on in peoples’ lives, but it’s a skewed version of reality. People post things for a mass audience and it’s generally things that make their lives look amazing. Keeping in contact through this leaves little room for the intimacy and vulnerability of letter writing. By selecting some cute stationary and even sending some trinkets or postcards from where you live, you get to maintain a private and friend-strengthening connection.
2. Start a long-distance club. For a group of friends trying to stay in touch, find the common denominator in your friendships. Then, make a mini club for it! It could be a book club, a movie club, Netflix club, etc. Have the group all read the same book, watch the same movie, or whatever you all like to do! Then, set up a regular meeting time when all of you can skype together to discuss your thoughts.
3. Plan a trip. Regardless of how far apart you are, everyone loves vacations! Plan trips together to places you’ve always wanted to go. Living exciting moments of your life together will be sure to keep your friendship alive. Your friendship can also become an easy way to escape for a little while from the stresses of your new friends, family, or job.
