Dear First Year Student: How to find your friends

Say hi to the person next to you in the lecture.

I met most of my friends in lectures during the first semester. The best thing about this process is that no one I contacted declined my greeting. Everyone engaged in a conversation, and to this date, everyone I conversed with became my friend. So please don’t be afraid to reach out and start that conversation. 

Smile at someone 

If verbal communication is intimidating, for starters, then smile. It’s so simple, easy and effective because you will likely receive a smile back. What that smile will bring is a conversation with someone and may likely lead to a friendship. Also, smile because it will elevate your mood and because maybe someone else is seeking a reason to smile, be that reason for someone, and smile!

Approach your peers in labs

Labs are a daunting experience for the new undergraduate student. Be sure to speak to those around you and see if you can figure things out together if times seem difficult and concepts aren’t easily understood. By helping each other out and taking these steps, you will empower each other, and the person you engaged with will remember you and likely proceed with future conversations. Before you know it, you are friends!

Join the Peer Leader Program 

I met many of my friends through this program, most of whom were in their upper years! How amazing is that? You are coming in as a new student and have established bonds with those in your upper years-that. That really says something about the power of the Peer Leader Program and the community it aims to foster. Be sure to sign up for this program if you are interested, as it will significantly assist your growth and that of others. Click here to learn more about the program. 

Converse with people at the library 

I met a lot of individuals by simply engaging in small talk at the library. Mind you; these were people I didn’t previously know! Given the positive culture of Ontario Tech University, everyone is very approachable and willing to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out!

Be an Ambassador

Another great program at Ontario Tech University is the Ambassador Program. You can engage in fantastic initiatives and volunteer opportunities, workshops, video content, etc., allowing you to meet so many different and unique people. This program is just one of the many established to build and enhance Ontario Tech University’s tight-knit community. Click here to learn more about the Ambassador Program.