Getting involved and making friends

A big part of your college experience is trying new things and making connections with people who can impact the rest of your life — both personally and professionally. It’s a great time to challenge yourself to get outside of your comfort zone and widen your social circle. Here are some tips on where to start from other current ASU students who have been there.

1. “Getting involved on campus will completely change your college experience! Making friends in your classes or in clubs can also help with your academics. The person next to you is probably also looking to meet new people, so don't be afraid to put yourself out there!”

2. “My best advice is to start joining clubs, take classes at the Sun Devil Fitness Complex, or rush for a sorority or fraternity! You will get the opportunity to meet so many people and make long-lasting friendships. Going through the ups and downs of university life will be much easier and way more fun if you have a community of people who love and support you to help you through it! Good grades are nice and all, but it's not nearly as nice as the friendships you'll make if you make the effort early on.”

3. “Don't be afraid to say "hi" to that one person that is in a lot of your classes because you're the same major! They could become your best friend that you take every class with for the next four years.”

4. “Get involved on campus. I highly suggest finding a student job. You meet a lot of students just like you and can create lifelong friendships. Who knows, maybe you'll find a few people that are taking the same classes as you!”

5. “You meet so many great people once you go out of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to go to that club meeting, go to office hours or join Greek life! You make such important connections when you have the courage to branch out. You might even meet some of your lifelong friends through these decisions.”

6. “Part of meeting new people and making new friends is knowing what kind of people you want to surround yourself with. It's also important to be authentic when meeting new people, because it'll attract like-minded people.”

7. “Make sure you have a good friend group that you can fall back on. And don't be afraid to find others if that one doesn't work out. There's a whole lot of people at the school, so keep grinding and you'll find your clique.”

8. “I really didn't start to feel at home on campus until I  engaged with clubs like the Clay Club or by going to guest speaker events with people from my classes. New students shouldn't worry about going through college feeling alone, just be patient and don't be afraid to try out something new. It might lead to you developing great friendships.”

9. “I have met a lot of people by just putting myself out there, and trying something new and exciting. With everything being online, it's even easier to attend events since you can attend anywhere from your computer. Put yourself out there and make the best out of this semester!”

10. “Turning your classmates into friends can help you in more than just passing a class. When you first start college, the newness can be scary and overwhelming at times, but understand that everyone is equally as in shock as you are. Almost everyone will be looking for a friend too, so don't be afraid to go out of your way to make a connection. You can and will create bonds that help you when you’re feeling down. Those connections have the power to last a lifetime. Remember that growth only happens outside of your comfort zone. Good things are going to come of this.”

Here’s what we want you to take away from this advice: Almost everyone feels nervous or intimidated when they approach someone new, but that other person will probably be so glad that you did. And the more you get involved, the more chances you will have to meet new people, but finding your bestie can take some time so don’t let it get you down or take away from your college experience.