Meeting My Best Friends in College: A Personal Journey and Tips

As someone who grew up near the college, I didn't experience living in a dorm, but I still managed to make some of the best friends during my freshman year. My experiences in orientation and beyond have had a significant impact on my college life and friendships.

Meeting Friends at College Orientation

During my first orientation, I was assigned to a group that included a lot of other freshman. We had fun playing games and getting to know each other. However, unlike some of my other classmates, I ended up choosing to navigate college life on my own terms. It took a while, but I eventually found my way into a close-knit circle of friends. This experience showed me the importance of making informed decisions and actively seeking out social groups within the college environment.

Discovering College Roommates and Best Friends

One of the most memorable moments was during our college open house. Little did I know that I would end up rooming with my best friend, who we had never met before. During our dorm check-in and setup, the senior housing advisor introduced us. It turned out we had been living as roommates in the same hall since 1990 and we are still best friends! This story emphasizes the importance of staying open and friendly during your freshman year, as it can lead to lifelong friendships.

The Unforgettable Freshman Year

My first close friend in college was my roommate. We had never met before we moved in together, but we hit it off right away. We laughed a lot and we got along incredibly well. Our resident assistant on the floor of our dorm was also a lot of fun, making our freshman year that much more enjoyable.

The next year, the three of us rented an apartment together and had the time of our lives. We were serious students, but we also hosted numerous dinners and parties with friends. We shopped for food together, did our laundry together, and we truly treated each other like sisters. This aspect of college highlights the importance of building a close-knit group of friends, both in and out of your dorm.

Advice for Freshman

Looking back, I can offer some advice to those who are about to begin their college journey:

Choose Wisely: If you can, carefully select your living arrangements. Dorm social groups can be tight-knit, so choose a place where you feel comfortable. Engage in Social Groups: Try to get into the social circles you desire. If you love sports or have a specific academic interest, find the right clubs or organizations. Explore Options: Fraternities and Sororities are a great way to make lifelong friends, as are professional fraternities. These groups can also provide a sense of community and support. Get Involved: Engage in various clubs and activities, both academic and extracurricular. It's a great way to meet like-minded individuals and make new friends. Build Friend Groups: Friendships often grow through mutual acquaintances. Keep an open mind and interact with as many people as possible.

Remember, the first few weeks of college are a unique opportunity to make friends. Everyone is new and looking for connections, so take advantage of it.

As the influencer says, 'Never in life will it ever be easier to find friends. Believe it or not.' Embrace this time and make the most of it during your college years.

Good luck, and have a wonderful college experience!