College might be one of the most exciting times of a student’s life. And the friendships forged during that stage of life will often last a lifetime. The connections you make while in college have the potential to propel your life’s path.
How much do we truly understand about the role of relationships in our lives while attending college? What we know is that we as human beings are social creatures. Our connectedness can impact our physical health and mental health. Whether you’re part of a tight-knit network, a network of clusters, or you decide to develop individual friendships, each type of connection is essential and extremely beneficial.
Why Connecting with Others Can Be Challenging for College Freshmen
For a multitude of reasons, some students begin their college careers with a sense of isolation and uncertainty. Some of the key factors contributing to this uncertainty include:
- Academic Transition: College courses are typically more challenging and require greater independence in studying and time management. Freshmen may feel uncertain about their academic abilities and how to adapt to the increased workload.
- New Environment: Moving away from home, often for the first time, and adjusting to a new living environment, such as dorms or shared housing, can be overwhelming. Freshmen may be uncertain about how to navigate daily life in this new setting.
- Social Adjustments: College introduces students to a diverse and larger peer group. This can lead to uncertainty about forming new friendships, fitting in, and managing social relationships, especially if they’re far from their hometown and established social circles.
- Career and Future: Many freshmen are uncertain about their long-term career goals and how their college education fits into their future plans. They may be exploring various majors and career paths.
- Financial Concerns: Tuition, living expenses, and student loans can be sources of financial uncertainty for college freshmen. Many students and their families worry about how to afford college and manage their finances.
- Homesickness: Missing the familiarity and support of home can contribute to feelings of uncertainty and homesickness, especially in the early weeks of college.
- Academic Performance: College grades and assessments can be more rigorous, and some students may fear academic failure or falling short of their own expectations.
- Identity and Values: Freshmen are often exploring their identities and values. They may encounter new ideas, perspectives, and challenges to their beliefs, which can lead to personal uncertainty.
- Balancing Priorities: Juggling academics, extracurricular activities, work, and social life can be challenging. Freshmen may feel uncertain about how to balance these various priorities effectively.
Ideas for Making Friends in College
Making friends in college is important for social, emotional, and professional reasons, and can greatly enhance the overall college experience. Here are some ideas for developing friendships during your collegiate career:
1. Remain open to new relationships: This may sound redundant, but you cannot make friends if you don’t want to. Be approachable, be helpful, and be kind. Also, never be afraid to set your own boundaries for what you want in a friendship.
2. Get involved: Get involved in extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, or student government. Such activities provide shared interests and camaraderie.
3. Attend or host social gatherings: Going to game nights, mixers, etc will allow you to meet new people in a relaxed setting.
4. Take initiative: Introduce yourself, and start conversations with classmates or other students in your dorm.
5. Study Groups: Join or form study groups, a great way to bond over academic pursuits.
6. Be approachable: Approach new people with a friendly attitude. Smile, make eye contact, and show genuine interest in getting to know them.
7. Use social media: Many universities and colleges have social media groups or pages where students can connect. The groups allow you to interact with fellow students and learn about upcoming events.
8. Volunteer: Volunteering for your community or your campus is a great way to meet others who share your passion for giving back.
9. Join social spaces: Find out about your school’s social clubs and opportunities to connect with others through shared interests and goals. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
Remember that building friendships is a gradual process, and not every interaction will lead to a deep connection. Be patient, open-minded, and willing to step out of your comfort zone to create a diverse and supportive network during your collegiate journey.
Self-help information and information from the internet is useful, but it is not a substitute for professional advice. If you are currently in treatment or in therapy, please consult your therapist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional.
