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The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Washington chapter.

Whether you’re a first-timer on campus, were enrolled in Zoom University last year, or are finishing up your degree, chances are you’re feeling pretty lonely after spending a whole year taking classes from your bedroom. Finding friends in college can be tough, and everyone needs someone to rant to about difficult college classes. 

If you’re anything like me and just need a little guidance in making new friends in a new place, here are some things you can do to quell some of that loneliness:

join a school club

One of the easiest options on the list, club meetings are a great new way to meet people with interests similar to yours! The UW has over 1,000 different clubs (RSOs, as we call them) where you can mingle with people who are in your major, do the same sport, or have the same hobbies. Find an RSO you’re interested in on Instagram or use the UW’s RSO directory to learn more and attend their meetings. If you stick with it, you can easily become friends with like-minded people; if you don’t, you can totally just try a different RSO next week! (In fact, you can even join Her Campus if you’re interested!)

say hi to your classmates

While slightly more intimidating, saying “hi” to people in your classes is a sure way to make some new friends, particularly if you want to find people in your major or program. When you sit down in class, make it your mission to introduce yourself to those around you and ask their name. Maybe even throw a compliment in there and see where the conversation takes you! If you end up talking the class away, make sure you get their phone number and/or social media handle— to “form a study group,” of course. 

meet your friends’ friends

Making mutual friends is always a sure way to find people you’ll be compatible with. Chances are, your friends’ friends are a lot like the both of you! Plus, they’re super easy to find. For example, does your roommate maybe know someone from high school or has she met someone in one of her classes? Next time they hang out, tag along and introduce yourself! You’re already one step closer to cultivating your friend group. Making friends is always more comfortable if someone you already know is involved, and having someone you already know there can make you much more outgoing.

Trust me when I say that everyone else is just as unsure and awkward in college as you are. All you have to do is put yourself out there; say hello first, ask people’s names, and eventually, you’ll find the group of people that just “stick”! Wishing you less lonely lunches, more class buddies, and a friend to always rant to. 

Shima is a senior at UW currently residing in Mukilteo, WA. She is majoring in Microbiology and hopes to someday become a physician. She enjoys baking bread, watching Teen Wolf, and practicing Taekwondo in her free time.