by Sadie Tallarico

Created on: July 28, 2009   Last Updated: July 29, 2009

As you sit down in the lecture hall, crowded with people, the realization that you are no longer in high school and surrounded by people you've known since grade school sets in. Starting college without knowing anyone can be difficult, but don't let that scare you into isolating yourself in your dorm room.

First of al, get to know your roommate. You and your roommate are only required to sleep in the same room, but getting to know one another beyond whether either of you snore will make the living situation more comfortable, prevent fights and you may make a lifelong friend! Teaming up in a pair and taking on meeting new friends alongside your roommate is also a good way to get socially involved in college, as there is a great chance your roommate has the same new-school jitters as you do.

Take part in residence hall meet and greets, parties and activities planned by your RA. These are good opportunities to meet students living in the same building as you. It always is a good idea to be familiar with your neighbors, for friendly and safety reasons. Similarly, you can always join a sorority or fraternity. This will ensure you maintain a social involvement during your college career and form bonds with your sorority sisters or fraternity brothers.

Joining a sports team is a healthy and positive way to meet new people at school as well. Whether getting involved in an organized team, or taking part in intra-murals or just taking advantage of any health club or fitness clubs offered, athletics are a great way to make new friends. Sports demand working together which gives you the opportunity to learn more about your teammates.

Find a club, whether on or off-campus, revolving around your interests. Whether a foreign language club, running, environmental, or art club, there is chance to meet new people, learn new things and get involved with the community. These are great ways to be social because you are getting the benefit of friends as well as service.

Even just attending parties and mixers, which are always being offered, is a fun way to meet new friends. As they are in a more relaxed environment, you may be more open to talking to people and letting others get to know you.

Meeting new friends does not need to be isolated to out of class activities either! Take advantage of group projects assigned in class, or grab the number of someone who sits nearby so you will have someone to help study with or lend you anything you need to know if you miss a class. By participating in class to the fullest you will seem more approachable as well, which will open you up to meeting new people.

Remember that if you are nervous about meeting new people, not to get shy, no matter how easier it is. You want to keep your options open. Say yes to invitations and try new things. College may be nerve-wracking at first but it will only get easier as you make yourself comfortable, and being social is a good way to start.

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