As I end my final semester of college, I have been reflecting on the friends I have made over the last four years. Although some of my college friends have been in my life for only a short time, they have all played a vital role in supporting me in my educational journey.
Other friends, I want to remain lifelong companions with, even after college. When you’re no longer just a dorm room down the hall or an apartment down the road on campus, it can be difficult to remain in touch with those near and dear to you from those college years.
The most important tip I have is to schedule a time to catch up regularly. Whether your friends are still in town or halfway across the world, you can schedule a regular time to chat about updates occurring in each of your lives. Life after college is new and exciting, and often, several milestones are achieved. Make time to hear of and celebrate each others’ achievements. A simple “congratulations” can go a long way. This can be in-person or through a text message, once a day, or even once a month, but you must keep that support system that has seen you at your lowest and knows how to lift you to your best. If your busy lifestyle keeps you from reaching out, be intentional by setting reminders, and don’t be afraid to reach out first.
If regularly talking about yourself feels slightly overwhelming, try a new hobby together, or stay in touch with the old ones. Join a book club, watch the same television show, or play online games together. This will shift the conversation from just yourself to also your interests, which may, in turn, boost your conversation and intimacy with your friends.
Another fun way to be in each others’ presence is to travel together. Traveling is comparable to college in that it’s adaptable and often original. Like in college, you and your friends can experience new things together, rejuvenating and putting yourselves in a similar position.
Traveling may seem like a large commitment, especially considering you will likely have a busy lifestyle, so don’t forget to be flexible in your connections with others, either. Know that as you experience different phases of life, you may grow into or out of each other. Allow yourself to experience these changes, and don’t get offended if it takes a while to hear a response. Each person walks their own path as they navigate life after college.