College is a fun place full of exciting, new opportunities. I knew I was going to make new friends in college, especially since I joined a sorority, but I was not expecting the process to be so lengthy. Coming from a small town, I was used to just knowing all of my friends since I was born. I do not even remember how we met or going through a process to become friends; it just sort of happened. The same is not true in college. College is a big space to meet new people and to make lifelong friends. Here is my interpretation of the process:
1. The "A ha" phase
This is that feeling you get when you think, "Hmm, this person seems pretty cool. I want to be their friend." Or something like that. The person is definitely putting off a friendship vibe, and you can see yourself hanging out somewhere down the road.
2. The common interests phase
This happens usually right after the "a ha" phase. The potential new BFF starts mentioning Netflix shows that you binge-watch or likes the same kind of coffee you do. One thing leads to another, and you start getting excited for this new friendship.
3. The exchanging numbers phase
After you realize that this person has the potential to be your new best friend, you have to work up the nerve to get their number. Depending on how shy you are, this could be a little bit of a process.
4. The telling your mom phase
This proceeds from the common interests phase. It probably goes a little something like, "Hey, mom, just calling to tell you that I met this girl today, and I think she could be my college person."
5. The first text phase
What is the adequate amount of time to wait before texting your new potential friend? That is a question that may never be fully answered. Once you finally get up the nerve to send the first text, it is probably exclamation point-filled and heavily packed with emojis, because you have to show that you are totally nice and fun.
6. The first hangout phase
After the whole first text debacle, it is finally time to hang out with your new friend again. Usually, the first hangout is pretty nerve-wracking. You are on your best behavior, because you really want to impress your new friend. It usually ends in a "It was so good to hang out with you," or a hug.
7. The meeting the boyfriend/mom/roommate/other friends phase
This means you are in; no going back now.
8. The settling phase
This is when you finally become friends and the last stage of the process. No more using exclamation points or being nervous anymore. You guys are actually fully-fledged friends who are comfortable around each other. Let the lifelong friendship commence!
