Connect and Thrive: Making Friends in College

Starting college is like opening a new chapter full of possibilities—especially when it comes to making friends! Whether you’re joining clubs, exploring campus or just being your authentic self, these tips will help you build meaningful friendships and truly thrive during your college years. 

Kick Off New Friendships at Orientation 👋

Feeling nervous about making new friends? Attending orientation is a perfect way to meet others in the same boat.

○ Connect: Use social media and campus-specific apps to link up with fellow students. 
○ Attend Orientation: Meet new friends who share your interests and strengthen those connections during breakout sessions.
○ Take the Lead: Don’t be afraid to start a conversation; remember that everyone is going through the same thing, so don’t be shy. 
○ Ask Questions: Show interest by asking about their hometown or favorite foods.
○ Set Hang Time: Schedule lunch or an outing with a new friend you made at orientation to continue to build that connection. 

New Student Orientation is your chance to connect with new friends right from the start. You’ll explore campus in small groups, bond over shared experiences, and discover people who could become your lifelong college friends.

Amiee More

Coordinator of student engagement

Embrace Dorm Life 🛏️

Make the most of dorm life by engaging with the people and spaces around you. 

○ Be Open: Greet your dorm mates. A friendly smile goes a long way! 
○ Find Chill Spots: Shared areas and dorm events are perfect for starting conversations.
○ Study in Groups: Join or form study groups—shared academic experiences can build strong friendships.
○ Get to know your RA: Residential advisors can help you navigate dorm life and provide support when you have questions about college life. 

My roommate was randomly assigned and at first I was a little nervous, but it turned out we had so much in common and matched perfectly! We are still roommates and close friends.

Barrett Lohman

Professional Student

Dive Into Campus Life 🫶

Build connections with people you’d want in your fam by joining clubs and organizations and rocking campus events.

○ Plan It: Look out for club fairs and info sessions. 
○ Get Involved: Engage in academic, hobby-based, athletic or social activities.
○ Explore: There’s always something happening on and around campus; most campuses host a resource fair that can help guide you to what services are available on campus. 
○ Put Out Good Energy: Use a relaxed vibe to meet new people—start conversations or smile; it goes a long way.
○ Find Hangout Spots: Frequent student spaces, libraries and cafes to meet people IRL. 
○ Say Yes: Be open to invitations – clubs, events, hangouts – to expand your social circle.

I was encouraged to eat one meal a day outside of my dorm room and it led to meeting my first friend! Now we are suitemates, and I am so thankful I got out of my comfort zone.

Taylor Washington

Undergraduate Student

College is What You Make of It! 🎓

College is a fresh start with endless opportunities to connect, grow and make lasting memories. Embrace chances to meet new people, participate in activities and stay open to new experiences. Building connections takes time, so be patient and genuine. Dive in with enthusiasm, and you’ll find your tribe to make the most of your exciting journey. 🌟 

<< Back to all stories