Our COVID-19 world has been challenging, and being college students with expectations of what we wanted our college experience and friendships to look like can make it harder sometimes. But that doesn’t mean we should keep ourselves from experiencing what we can, even if that means it’s in a virtual space. We can still build new and existing friendships online. Here’s how we suggest getting started.
1. Put Yourself Out There
We know it can be scary to put yourself out there, especially when we don’t know what happens after. But we’re encouraging you to do it anyways! You’ll be surprised how often it really does work out. Try contacting a club or organization on . You can start by reaching out and asking questions. Or find out how people with similar interests are meeting up online. Are they streaming on Twitch, like the ? Is there a Discord you can join? Can you follow the Orange community on ? Just start looking! You’ll find your group sooner than you think.
2. Be Open to New Experiences
College is for trying new things and nurturing our identities right? So let’s be open to new experiences and possibilities! Join a conversation group, like or , that can help get you out of your comfort zone and learn others perspectives. Explore ways to serve our Greater Syracuse community with the or the . Find something new and just do it! Even if it’s not something you want to continue doing, you’re sure to meet someone new and build a lasting connection.
3. Get to Know your Classmates
This might seem obvious, but we’ve got to say it. Introduce yourself to your classmates and maybe even start a group chat! Chances are you’ll be in similar classes in the future, so try not to view them as just potential group partners—unless they’re THAT group partner. We’re not saying you need to be best friends. We’re saying it’s pretty likely that they’re feeling lonely, too. So let’s reach out and support each other.
4. Know It’s Never Too Late
Even if you’re graduating in May, you can make new and lasting connections. Tell that person in your class you’ve always thought was cool how much you’ve enjoyed getting to grow with them. Invite your neighbors for a socially distanced walk in the park or pick a night to check in with each other from your porches. Do something you always wanted to, but never got the chance to. You’re never going to regret trying! We promise.
It’s hard to imagine sometimes, but COVID-19 won’t last forever. We’re hopeful, and once it’s safe, catch us making friends in the real world by getting our study group together in Panasci, playing Frisbee on the quad and finding our new place to belong.
If you’re feeling isolated and alone, reach out to a friend, advisor, faculty member or counselor. You can always call the at 315.443.8000 to speak with a counselor.Â