Right now, like every other freshman in the U.S., your first two weeks on campus must be ending. However, many may be insecure or clueless about how to still make the best out of their freshmen year. But most importantly on how to build those relationships that will last your entire college career. This article is going to help you by giving some tips that helped me and some friends build strong relationships and be involved around campus.
1. Make friends everywhere:
This one is for all of my shy and not-so-shy friends: ask simple questions to those who you interact with. Introduce yourself or just say hey to the person who sits next to you in class, talk to those who are part of your introduction day group, and more. Even if it is not a big conversation, you now have someone to wave at in the the hallways. Or even better, someone who could turn into something more than friends. Believe me, many of the friendships that last all of college started with a simple “Oh I saw you in the laundry room” or “You were in my class right?”.
2. Get involved in campus clubs:
Getting involved is what makes you popular among your peers and student-faculty. If you want to have a college experience full of activities, where many people will say hi to you and remember you, joining a campus club is your go-to choice. Campus clubs give you the opportunity to meet people who share the same interests that you have. This will make you feel in a comfortable space that includes things that you like. Many friendships can be born at club meetings, and as every club has events around campus, people will start to know you and get associated with you.
3. Go to the caf
This one may sound silly, but for me is the one that has worked best. The people with whom you make small talk or meet can accompany you to the cafeteria for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Having these moments with them will strengthen your relationship. The cafeteria is a place where you are going to meet people without any barriers, you can talk about anything and see everyone at the same time, for where you can still meet new people. Also, many events that occur around campus are presented in the cafeteria, making it another opportunity to get involved.
4. Your roommate
This one can be a little hard as to how not everyone is assigned a roommate that shares the same living mentality and thoughts, but having your roommate–and your room–as your safe space is crucial. It will help you feel at peace whenever you want to. Even though your roommate is not part of your same friend group, having her as someone who can introduce you to more people will help.
In the end, if you think about it, making friends is very easy. And remember, just as you are trying to fit in and meet people, every other new student is on the same track as you are. You shouldn’t be scared of taking that first step, many will thank you for making it.