You asked:

All I did first semester was sit in the library and study. I got really good grades, but I never really made any friends. How can I meet people this late in the game when cliques have already formed?

The interesting thing about college cliques is that they constantly change. People rarely circle within the same group of friends for four years straight. It’s never too late to jump in and meet people -- you just have to take the first step. Here are some tips for working your way into the social scene:

• Make time for you. With all your studies, be sure to set aside time for fun. College is about getting an education, but a huge portion of the learning happens outside the classroom. Get time management on your side and you’ll find that you can slice and dice your day to be social -- without compromising your academics.
• Be open-minded and easygoing. Don’t assume all cliques are exclusive. Mingle with several groups before shying away. Trying new things you haven’t done might just be a way for you to make new friends. Getting involved in campus life can greatly increase your social roster. Why not try intramural sports, student government, Greek life, or student clubs? Just know your limits. If you hate watching movies, a film society isn’t the best option.
• Use dorm life to your advantage by leaving your door open. Something as simple as an open door says “Welcome!” It gives the message that you want people to stop by and chat. Leave it open for a couple of days and people will start to notice.
• Sit next to someone new in class. Strike up a conversation. If a person doesn’t seem interested, then sit next to someone else next time. If you have a lab, strike up a convo with your lab partners. Even if you aren’t meant to be the best of friends, you’ll flex your social skills some. Got it, butterfly?

Name: Sarah Arsenoff
School: UNC Wilmington
Year: Senior
Major: Marine Biology
Her Deal: This is Sarah's third year as an R.A. for freshmen and international students. She writes for Periplus, a university newsletter for students who, like her, are in the honors scholars program.

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