by Angela Diggs

Created on: July 22, 2009   Last Updated: August 05, 2009

Most of the friends you make in college will be with you for a lifetime. You will remember them a lot longer than the ones you had in highschool. I do. Let's go down memory lane for a moment.

Do you remember how it was when you first went away to college? Wasn't it exciting? Remember how you felt on the first day when your parents waved "bye" to you? It was your first sense of independence and it felt great. However, what made your experience golden were the friends you made a long the way. They were the people who helped you study for that mid-term and "ace" that quiz. They put a smile on your face when you were feeling down.

Making new friends is the core of the college experience. New friends help to shape and mold it for the better. Each person you meet in school either adds something or takes something away. It is crucial to surround yourself with the right types of individuals. When the college experience comes to a conclusion, the people you form bonds with may help enhance your life. Below are the ways to make new friends in college.

Step 1: Befriend your roommate

The first person you meet in college is usually your roommate. This is the person you will share time with during the semester. In the first few months, try to form a close bond with your roommate because if you do, they will want to introduce you to their friends. This is the easiest way to start making friends.

Step 2: Attend college parties

In most colleges there are parties throughout the year. Usually there are some with themes such as "spring dance" or "summer fling". If you and your roommate are close enough, go together to these parties. During these events you get to see other students in a more relaxed mode. The more parties you attend, the more you increase your chances of meeting new friends.

Step 3: Obtain a job on campus

This is a great way to meet new people. Not only are you making money, but you get to know people around the campus as well. Check with your college directory to see if positions are available. The best way to get a job on campus is to sign up for work study. Work study gives you the opportunity to earn money while lowering the cost of tuition expenses.

Step 4: Get involved with a club or college organization

It helps to get involved where you can. Check out your college directory to see what is available. These bulletins are often posted all over the campus. Look and see what is going on and get involved. This is another wonderful way to meet new friends with similar interests and hobbies. Being in a club provides a firm foundation for friendship. Most of the activities on the campus are hands on and require a lot of communication.

Step 5: Start a study group

During college, you will have a number of tests and finals. Use them to your advantage by forming study groups. Study groups are a great tool to use to meet people and get to know people on an intellectual level. It also helps you recall information better. It is combining socializing with academics.

Meeting new friends can be intimidating for some. However, once you talk to someone, you may realize that they are just as afraid as you. Open up and broaden your college experience by enriching it with quality individuals. Many years after you're done with school, they may be the ones who are there in the end.

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