5 Things College Taught Me About Friendship

We all know how scary college is. One thing that can make the experience less frightening is finding some great friends that will stick by your side through it all. College taught me a lot about friendships. Here are a few of those lessons.

PHOTO: Kenia Viezcas

1—You’ll meet many friends

Throughout your college experience, you are going to meet a lot of people. You will also get the chance to meet a lot of friends. There are so many people on campus for you to meet and become friends with. Between the residence halls and your classes, you are bound to meet at least one person that you want to consider a friend!

PHOTO: Maddy Haller

2—Don’t jump into friendships too quickly

Last spring semester, I met a couple of people who I swore would be my best friends forever and ever. When fall semester rolled around, I was not on speaking terms with those people. It is not like we had a falling out and were angry with each other—it just sort of happened. People get busy, move off campus, or you don’t see them as often. It’s always sad, but it does happen—and that’s okay.

PHOTO: Layne Miller

3—Don’t be scared to talk to new people

Sometimes, you might just be overthinking it. I have had moments where I really wanted to talk to someone, but I was scared to. Then, after talking to them, I realize that they were amazing and wanted to talk to me, too! Whether you mention their cool headphones or their cute backpack (like this one), a compliment is always nice—not to mention a great conversation starter!

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

4—Getting involved is a great way to make friends

This semester I decided to get involved in my school’s welcome week for new students.  I have created a bond with them that I probably would not have had I decided to skip out on this program. Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Joining student organizations will help you find people who have the same interests or maybe even major as you.

PHOTO: Valerie Cammack

5—Friends come and go

While you may make many new friends that you hope to be friends with forever, sometimes friendships do not last. It is not a bad thing, that is just how life is. So, if you make friends with someone who later ends up disappearing from your life, do not be sad about it. Instead, appreciate the time you got to spend with that person.

Do not be scared about whether or not you’ll make friends in college. Chances are you’ll make many. Just get out there and be the best you!

Featured photo by Kenia Viezcas.

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