by Leigh Goessl

Created on: July 30, 2009   Last Updated: July 31, 2009

Going off to college is a brand new experience full of speculation and excitement of the unknown. While most students feel enthralled about the prospects of what awaits them on campus, for many a bit of fear and trepidation of what's to come still lurks within the back of their minds.

Socialization is a big thing for college students and it is not uncommon to feel a little uncomfortable going into a situation where everyone is a stranger. Not to mention intimidating. Chances are friends from high school are missed and some nostalgia sinks in.

Feeling a bit homesick is normal, but it doesn't help to put the focus on how much you miss everyone back home. If you concentrate too much on loneliness and longing for home, this can lead to depression if you aren't careful.

Actively seeking out new comrades can help ease the feelings of being lonely and help get you more acclimated into your new life at campus. College is a great opportunity to make new lifelong friends. The question many new students often ask themselves is how to go about meeting new people?

Here are a few tips on the many ways you can make new friends in college:

*Get to Know Your Roommate

There's a strong possibility your roommate is the first person you're going to have close contact with upon your arrival on campus. You may find you have tons of things in common, but on the same token, you may be disheartened to discover you have nothing in common.

If the latter occurs, this does not mean you can't be great friends. After all, opposites do attract and there's a lot to say for the value of diversity. Diversity is the spice of life and even if you and your roommate are polar opposites, with a little effort and understanding the two of you may become the best of friends.

*Hang a Welcome Sign on Your Dorm Room

If you leave your door open, this shows others you are inviting and approachable, and as a result people will naturally be inclined to stop in and say hello.

Closed doors aren't likely to bring many visitors and those who stay locked up in their rooms may give others the impression of being aloof, and other students will be less apt to stop in and try and establish a new friendship.

*Join Clubs or Organizations

Getting involved in organized socialization is a great way to meet new people, and it also helps you get more familiarized with the campus. By staying active in college groups such as clubs and organizations you can meet lots of people with who you share common interests.

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