One of the most difficult things about being a college student is the ability to meet new people. God added a few extra drops of extrovert when he made me, and I thrive around other people. I am a person who loves to be a part of social events, and I genuinely enjoy meeting new people. Through this piece, I would love to share with you the methods that have worked best for me to meet new friends at Northwestern.
Number one: never say never.
Although this is the topic of an extremely antiquated Justin Bieber song, it helps when trying to meet new people. Whenever someone from your hall or dorm building asks you to go to La Juanitas or an event on campus, always say yes. Chances are you will either meet someone new or get to know someone better than you knew them before.
You cannot meet new people if you are cooped up studying in your room all day or playing NBA2K with the boys. In every Las Juas trip that I have taken, I have always met at least one person. This is a principle that has helped me to get to know a lot of people on campus.
Number two: sit next to the people who you do not know.
My biggest piece of advice is at least one of your classes sit next to a group of people you do not know. I know that starting a conversation may be difficult, but it is always easy to talk about the class and upcoming assignments. Afterward, ask about their NW experience and get to know them as a person. This does not only apply to classes, but it can also help when studying in the library or when interacting with your hallmates. I have personally met many people who I consider to be very close friends throughmy classes
Number three: sign up for events that fit within your schedule.
NW provides a plethora of activities to sign up for. These include activities such as Spring Service Partnerships, Adventure Club activities, trivia nights, directing Class One Acts, and many more. These are primal events to meet new friends, enjoy your NW experience and help you stand out as a Red Raider.
Number four: always be yourself!
This is probably a very cliché saying which you have heard many times before. However, it holds meaning. Throughout my experience as a NW student, I meet the best people when I act myself. The worst outcome of social interaction is showing a fake side of yourself. The biggest problem is the feeling that the people around you will judge the real you. This means that you have not found the right group of people. However, do not worry because you will find people that will accept the real you.
Number five: always be accessible.
In your dorm halls, never close your door unless you absolutely need to. This is especially applicable to the first week of college. Leaving your door open allows others to know that they can feel welcome in your room. However, you also have to be the one making rounds and approaching other open rooms! The lack of rounds is a problem that I have personally seen in my dorm hall. By practicing this, I have found many friends that I enjoy talking and interacting with on a daily basis.
Hopefully these tips can help you find your own method of making friends on campus. If I have not personally been able to meet you, then I would love the opportunity to! I always love new people to stop by Colenbrander 145 and say hi.
