How to make friends in college

This is something that numerous first years have asked me when first arriving at UVA. Here is the big secret...everyone is trying to make friends. Although it feels isolating, especially if you only know a few people coming to UVA, do not worry. Your best friends are right around the corner. It will take you taking the first step to make something happen. Do not be afraid to start a conversation as you never know where it will lead. Remember that you won't necessarily become best friends with the first people you meet. Give people a shot and the benefit of the doubt before judging too harshly. If things are not working out it is okay! You will continue to meet different people throughout your time at the university. UVA is a big place. Yes, there are larger schools, but the odds of you running into the same person twice are low. When you first interact with someone, do not be afraid to ask for their number. There are no other strings attached and people are generally cool about it. This is frankly one of the only ways to ensure that you see someone a second time. You do not have to go to parties to meet people. You can meet people at bars and frats but generally its too loud to get any meaningful interaction. Sometimes you can make friends at dining halls, through other friends, in quieter parties, or thousands of other ways. Again, it comes down to going out and introducing yourself. Make friends with upperclassmen. It is worth knowing people in every year. It expands your exposure to events and gives you opportunities you would otherwise miss as a new student at UVA.