How to make friends as a first year student

Thursday, July 28, 2022
by Nishika, AFM student

Nishika M., 3A AFM
Moving to university from high school is a big and often overwhelming step. A lot of first year students are worried about making friends. Being a new university student, one of the easiest ways to meet new people is through joining communities based on your interests.

These communities can range anywhere from clubs and extracurriculars to intramurals and even case competitions. Ever since my first year, I have been highly involved within the UW A Cappella Club where I made a lot of amazing friends who share the same interests as me. I also participated in case competitions, sometimes with friends and sometimes with randomly selected team members so that I could meet new people. Another great way to meet new people and give back to Waterloo is through volunteering for campus events like Orientation and Welcome Week.

Making friends and joining communities provides you with a moral support system that you can lean on when you’re feeling down. It also allows you to take that well-deserved break from schoolwork and recharge your brain. You might even find a new study buddy who truly boosts your productivity. Waterloo is a place for everyone. No matter where you come from, you will always find a place where you belong.