What's the best way for a college transfer student [junior] to meet people?

Question

I know, it's kind of a cliche question.

I'll be a junior transferring from a large university [18,000] to a smaller university [8,000]. I found it difficult to meet people at my old university b/c it was a huge party school in the south that had a very antagonistic student section in the sports arena's. I'm a pretty chilled out person from the NYC tri-state area, and I don't get super hyped up about that kinda stuff. I have lived a very independant lifestyle in an apartment for the past two years, but now I am returning to a dorm for the first time since my freshman year. I will be living with approx. 4 other girls who I won't know. I won't have a car to get off campus. I'm nervous that the kids my age will have already formed tight cliques. I would like to join clubs b/c I have many interests, but I'll be at a loss if the clubs are lame or too clique-y....



So, should I do what freshman usually do, even if it's kinda lame to do all that as a junior?

Answer 1

well, living on campus with roommates is already a start . . . you will meet so many people through your roommates . . .

also, when you're on campus you are aware of all the special events and activities that happen on campus because you are always there (yes, it's what the freshman do and i guess if you think it's lame, it's lame, but it's all a part of the college experience) . . .

to echo everyone else, get involved in a club/professional group that interests you - it will not only look good on a resume that you were involved, but it will also be a great way to meet friends and make networking connections for later . . .

also, you will probably meet a lot of people through working in group projects . . . i am also a junior transfer . . . i just finished my first semester at my new school and most of the people i know now, i first met in groups working on class projects

Answer 2

The best way to make friends is to get involved with a group of people, get to know them, and be an active member. For a university student, there's a great way to do this:

I assume you're starting at the new U in the fall, but this will work for now also.

Check the university's website for student clubs, groups, etc. The university where I work has literally hundreds of student organizations, from religious to sports to academic groups to student government to sports or activities most people have never heard of before.

Select a dozen or so groups that sound interesting to you, and see if they have websites. Check if they have a listserv or mailing list for club meeting minutes, announcements, etc. If they do, sign up. Look for back issues of meeting minutes, pictures, activities, etc. This will give you an idea of how active they are, what they do, etc.

When you get to campus, look up the meeting place and date for 2-3 of them, and go sit in on their meetings. If they look like a fun group, join. If not, move on. When you find a group you like, become an active member. Sign up for an activity, or lead one. If you like it enough, become an officer. You *will* meet people this way.

Answer 3

Colleges do not discriminate over age. In fact, if anything, an older student is seen as more mature and more likely to suceed than some 17 or 18 year old with no life experiences.

Answer 4

Why not join a club that interests you? Dont assume that the people will be clicque-y, I met one of my best friends from college at one of these clubs.

Answer 5

I would say get involved. Join clubs, organizations, etc.... Good luck!