Many people identify that some of their strongest, most long-lasting friendships started in college. Research also shows that community and interpersonal relationships have a significant impact on a student’s overall satisfaction with their college experience, and can even influence academic performance.
Put simply, friendships in college are important. So how can you develop them? Here are some tips.
1. Be Open and Available. If you’re not a residential student or you live within driving distance of your hometown, it’s easy to retreat to the familiarity of your friend group from high school. And while maintaining those close relationships is important, if you want to develop new friendships you need to leave space for them to form. Opt to stay on campus a couple weekends a month, or stay late to attend social events or interest-group meetings instead of heading for home as soon as your classes are over.
2. Take In-Person Classes. Online classes are available more widely than ever before and have made a college education accessible to more students. But nothing beats in-person classes for developing personal relationships. Group work, study sessions, and before-class chatter can’t be replicated in an online community. Online classes are great for many reasons, but if you’re looking to develop friendships in college, be intentional about taking some in-person courses as well.
3. Be Brave. If you want to meet people you’ll have to endure some uncomfortable moments. You’ll have to walk into a social event without knowing anyone. You’ll have to strike up a conversation with a stranger. You may even have to invite them to coffee or to the library. Get out of your comfort zone!
4. Join a Group. There are tons of ways to connect with others who have similar interests on a college campus. Athletics. Music. Gaming. Faith groups. Volunteer clubs. Foreign language practice conversations. Fitness classes. Jump in and join groups to meet people with whom you already know you have at least one common interest!
5. Attend Campus Events. Check out your campus Student Life office to see what’s going on. There are plenty of ways you can meet fellow students and fill your free hours. Resist the urge to skip activities like freshman orientation or dorm team-building events; these opportunities are designed to help you connect with others and build community.
The thing to remember is that everyone on your campus is looking to connect with other students. So while it might feel awkward in the beginning, the dividends you’ll reap for the rest of your life will be worth it.
At Northwest University, there are so many ways to get involved in the community life. Whether that is attending an event put on by our Student Activities Board (SAB), engaging in meaningful conversations hosted by our Multicultural Life office, hanging out with your friends in our Residence Halls (Residence Life and Housing), attending an Eagle Athletics event or worshipping as a community through one of our many Campus Ministries programs. Additionally, at Northwest University we have over 20 clubs and organizations we encourage our students to get involved in. Schedule your campus visit today!
