Your guide to making friends in university

Stepping out of your comfort zone and making friends can be scary, but hopefully, these tips can lead someone in the right direction to take a leap of faith. University is already overwhelming, so we might as well make some friends and go through this rollercoaster together!

Initiate

Though it might seem scary, sometimes you just need to take the plunge and start conversations to kickstart a friendship! While it is nice to let others approach you, taking the initiative can be the key to finding a lifelong friend. A simple compliment to someone you see around campus can make a big difference, this shows you are approachable and friendly. So get out there and take the first step, new friendships await!

Join Clubs (and more!)

There are few better places to meet new friends than through campus clubs and organizations! Joining a club is like stepping into a community of people who share your interests and passions, which is a great foundation for new friendships. Whether this is a club, sports team or workshop, you will connect with like-minded students who already have something in common with you. Another bonus is clubs and campus organizations offer a great way of meeting a diverse range of people you might not have crossed paths with otherwise.

Hangout in Common Areas

Spend some time hanging out in the common areas of campus such as the library, building atriums, and food spots. These spots are great places to casually meet other students, and you might even run into some familiar faces from your classes. Whether it's a coffee run, studying or just taking a break, these common areas can offer a relaxing environment to strike up a conversation with others.

Attend Campus Events

The fear of being alone can be what's stopping people from attending any campus events, but this is the perfect opportunity to meet new people. Events are where people go to socialize, so what better way to make friends than by attending activities designed for exactly that? Be ready to engage with others who are also there to have a good time and make connections. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there, even if you go alone, you might just end the day with a few new friends.

Use Social Media

If you got through meeting new people and forming new connections, be sure to keep the ball rolling and keep in touch! Through social media, you can reach out to your new friends throughout the day, even when you can't meet up in person. It is also a great tool for putting yourself out there and connecting with larger groups at once. Many classes have group chats where students can share resources and support each other, so if you hear of one, don't hesitate to ask to join! Use social media to your advantage and stay connected with all the wonderful people you meet.

But remember, while it is great to be proactive in making friends, allow these friendships to blossom naturally. It is best to not rush things but to let things develop comfortably between all parties involved!