Efe Ikhenaode

Going to the university is such an exciting point in your life and even though everyone might feel like a stranger at first, there are so many opportunities to socialize and connect with your peers. If you have ever wondered how you can be a social butterfly on campus, look no further, I have got you covered. I have put together a list of some of the best ways to meet new people and build friendship bonds no matter your religion, faculty or age.

Join a club

In a school of millions of students, you are bound to find a club for people with the same interests as you. Look around your faculty/department for fliers or ask around to see what clubs your school has. You will find a good mix of academics, student politics, and general interest groups that are available. Go to one of their scheduled meetings so you can hang out and meet some new people.

For example, if you are into writing and publishing, you may try to join the press or a creative writing club, like me! Stay connected with the club through social media groups or websites so you don’t fall out. Attend their events.

Go to university events

AFAS executives plan so many fun social events so students can hang out. Check your bulletin board so you don’t miss out. You can usually find events like hangouts, concerts, or game nights you can attend to meet students that have similar interests as you. Try to find a few events that you’re interested in so you can schedule them in!

Spend some of your free time on campus

Don’t immediately run off to your hostel after class. Try to mingle with other students for a little while instead. You’re more likely to meet people in a shared public space. Go to the cafeteria to have a meal, pick up something to drink from a popular spot, or find a study spot at the student center. Putting yourself out there on campus gives you a lot of opportunities to say hi to new people and potentially meet some new friends.

Invite people out


Plan a fun activity or hangout so you can deepen your friendships. As you get to know the people you live with and your classmates, see if they want to get together outside of school. Ask if they want to go to a movie, go to the market or hang out at a concert. Since a lot of other people get nervous asking to be friends, taking that first step shows you really want to connect with them.

Build connection with fellow students

Build your network with people studying the same subject as you. While you are in class, keep an eye out for people that you think you will get along with based on what they’re wearing, what they mention in class, or just on your intuition. Sit next to the people you’re interested in and introduce yourself when you have a chance. If there’s a group project in your class, see if they want to work together so you can socialize with them even more.

So help yourself this semester and don’t let yourself be the dork in class. Make friends and connections. They say the best school years are the years in university. Stay jiggy!

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