Q: How can I make more friends at college?

One of the toughest aspects of the first semester of college is making new friends. Granted, some of us have at least a few high school friends who come with us to college. However, a lot of young adults enter university without knowing a single soul. And even if you and your high school friends do decide to attend the same school, you may still feel a desire to branch out and meet new people.

Q: So, how can I make more friends at college?

A: One of the best ways to meet people is to join an extracurricular organization. Whether that be an intramural

My roommate Dana (left) and I get our picture taken at an awards program at the MU Alumni Association May 14, 2012. Dana and I met through our job working as lifeguards at Mizzou’s Rec Center.

sport, a sorority/fraternity or a part-time job, the chances of you making new friends greatly increases when you become involved in something outside of class. In addition, taking part in something you enjoy allows you to come in contact with people who share the same interests as you. Keep your eyes and ears open–many student-based organizations try to recruit new members, especially at the beginning of the academic year. If you find something that catches your fancy, try it out!

Q: What if I don’t have time for an extracurricular activity?

A: If you’re simply too busy to join a student-based organization or make time for a job, the best way to meet new people is to leave the dorm room. Try to strike conversation with the people who live on your floor. If you meet someone friendly, try inviting them out for lunch or to a basketball game. So long as you don’t expect to meet others from the confines of your four-poster, you can make new friends.

Q: I’m shy. Any tips?

A: Unfortunately, you will have to learn to come out of your shell a little bit. If you notice a girl on your floor wearing a cute outfit, ask her where she buys her clothes. The same goes for guys–if you see someone wearing a baseball cap of your favorite sports team, ask him if he’d like to get together and watch the game sometime. You may or may not form a friendship with the person, but reaching out to others will help you become more at ease in social situations. Soon, you’ll  find the more you practice, the easier it becomes to strike conversation.

MU’s women’s ultimate frisbee team practices at MU’s Stankowski field in January, 2012. Taking part in intramural sports allows you to meet people who share the same interests as you.

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