by Jennifer Shipon

Created on: June 28, 2008

Whether you know no one in a school of thousands or hundreds, the best way to enjoy a rollicking social life on an American campus comes in a triptych: be friendly, join clubs, and take risks.

It may seem obvious, but smiling, making eye contact, listening, and just plain being warm, open, and accessible encourages people to come up to you, talk to you longer, and include you on their steadily growing list of friends. If you live in a dorm, leave your door open as often as you can to show that you welcome visitors and impromptu conversations or hangouts. Ask people to eat meals with you. Once you're confident with the people in your dorm and classes, don't stop there!

Pretty sure you're not into art? Join some art clubs anyway and see what happens. The worst outcome? You hate the activities and the people, and you move on. The best? You discover a fresh hidden passion that might never have been unearthed otherwise, and gain a boatload of new friends you might never have had an opportunity to talk to once, let alone hang out with. The same goes for any subject under the sun. Make sure you also scout out the stuff you're already passionate about, of course - finding common ground is a tried and true way to make new buddies that will pepper your college experience not only with quality memories, but lifelong friends.

Putting yourself out there is a great way to broaden your social horizons that doesn't necessarily entail keg stands and shots. Although these can be a part of everyone's college memories, they don't have to be the focal point of yours. The college social experience is entirely what you make of it. If someone you don't know very well or think you wouldn't normally hang out with invites you to grab a meal or go see a concert, say yes even if you have never heard of the artist before in your life. Organize events on your own - don't wait for every social gathering to come to you. Marathon watching of everyone's favorite TV series in your dorm or common room complete with pillows and snacks is a wonderful way to meet the people in your hallway, or strengthen ties with other potential friends you've just met.

In general, be open to new experiences and situations. Don't be nervous about talking to anyone or trying something new. Make friendly overtures, plan events, join clubs, and accept unexpected social offers. Leave the door to your college social experience wide open, and you will be surprised at the sheer amount and variety of people who come in.

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