First there was middle school...then high school. Now you're in college and the process of meeting new people must begin all over again. Below are some helpful and simple ways you can meet new people, without taking up too much of your time. (You're supposed to study since you're in college, right?)
1. Start a conversation in the elevator.
Often college elevators don't supply any cheesy elevator music—so get talking! Ask someone how their day is or what their major is. You might find people with similar interests or someone you could study with. If you're more shy, you can also try something as simple as asking what floor the person is on and press the button for them. Doing so makes you seem approachable and opens the door for conversation.
2. Hangout in your residence hall lounge or lobby.
Whether it's to watch the football game or the next episode of American Horror Story, communal areas are a great way to meet new people. Personally, I met a lot of new people by joining card games. Now meet up one or more times a week to just hang out and play cards. It's so much fun to have a group of friends that you can see regularly.
3. Leave your door open.
If you can get our of your dorm enough, but you still want to meet new people, simply leave your door open. People are more likely to stop and say hi and have a conversation with you. It's also a great way to get to know the people on your floor, plus dorms are roughly the size of a shoebox. Opening the door can make the space seem less small.
4. When you sit next to someone new, introduce yourself.
Especially on the first day of class, it is important to introduce yourself to the people sitting next to you. Often, people tend to sit in the same seats so getting to know the person you sit next to could potentially lead to a friendship!
5. Join an intramural sports team.
Intramural sports are a great way to meet people who enjoy the same sports as you but with a less competitive environment. It's all about having a fun atmosphere, staying fit, and making friends.
6. Get an on-campus job.
A great way to get to know students just like you is to work on campus. You'll meet many students throughout the day, along with earning a salary to help support yourself. Be sure to visit your school's career services office to see what opportunities are available to you.
7. Go to campus events.
The school puts on events for YOU. Go to them! While there are many during welcome week, be sure to keep going to events throughout the year. It's one of the most fun and easiest way to meet people. I recently attended a movie night where we watched Hocus Pocus (#throwback) in our PJs. It was one of the most fun nights I've had and I got to the greatness of Disney Channel original movies with new people.
8. Do your laundry.
While most people drop off their laundry and leave, a great way to get to know people is by hanging out in the laundry room and talking to other students. Most people are just on their phones or doing homework, so it's a great time to strike up a conversation. Plus, your mom will be super proud of you for getting your laundry done. It's a win-win situation.
9. Join a club.
One way to create a bond with someone is to have similar interest. Join a club related to your major or for a hobby you have. It's easy to have conversations when you know you share some of the same likes as someone.
10. Be yourself.
People enjoy being around someone who is genuine. Own who you are and have fun! People will respect your confidence and you'll have more fun being yourself than trying to be someone else.
