HOW TO MAKE FRIENDS ON CAMPUS: A GUIDE FOR INTROVERTS

It’s not always easy to make friends at the university especially when you’re introverted. You may have constant worries about how to relate with classmates, people in the hostel, and other students on campus. You need some time alone to relax and recharge. Instead, you face crowded lecture halls, packed cafeterias, strangers for roommates, and constant social pressure.

However, you may still want to have some people to share friendship with. Sometimes you may struggle with the nagging sense of loneliness that comes with being on your own. It is normal to feel nervous and awkward when meeting new people. If you’re looking to make friends, here are some tips that can guide you.

GET TO CLASSES EARLY

Getting to classes five or ten minutes before the lecture starts can give you time to settle in and chat with your classmates. It might not be easy to start a conversation with someone but it’s worth the effort if you try. Compliment their dressing or ask if they have finished their assignment or report. Make it a thing to say hello and introduce yourself to who you sit with for lectures.

JOIN A CAMPUS ORGANIZATION

One of the best places of find people you share a common interests with is in a campus club or organization. You’re into writing? Join your faculty press. Love helping others? Find a charity or volunteer organization. Be it drawing, music, or whatever you’re passionate about, there’s probably a club for it. And if a club doesn’t exist yet, you can always start one yourself.

AIM TO MAKE ONE OR TWO REAL FRIENDS

There’s a saying about ‘The more, the merrier’ but that does not have to be the case with you. Introverts shine one-on-one or in smaller groups. So instead of trying to win everyone over, aim to make one or two real friends. This would be more fulfilling than being popular because most introverts crave deep and meaningful friendships over superficial ones.

LOOK FOR OTHER QUIET PEOPLE

There are others like you, people who prefer to do their own stuff instead of being with the crowd. It would be easier to connect with people like this because they would understand you better and not try to change you as most extroverts would.

FIND A FRIEND WHO’S MORE SOCIAL THAN YOU

Although this might sound counterintuitive and contrasting to the previous point, striking balance is key. Having at least one person who has good social skills can be very beneficial. These people are excited to meet new people and are always up to something fun. They can always cheer you up and lift your mood if you feel down. Having this friend would also maximize your chances of meeting other people.

While friendship is a great thing, being an introvert is not a disease that needs to be cured and you do not have to change your personality just to satisfy others. You may be quiet but you are special and powerful in a world that can’t stop talking.

What are your thoughts on this? Do you find it hard to make friends on campus? Please do share your experiences and insights in the comments below! 🙂

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