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Ways to Make Friends Before Moving to Campus

two girls laugh as they wait to play tennis

Heading off to college is an exciting chapter in every young person's life. But one of the most common concerns we hear among incoming freshmen is about making friends and how to do it before setting foot on campus. In this article, we'll explore some ways to build connections and friendships to help you have a smooth and enjoyable transition to college life.

1. Join Social Media Groups and Forums 

In today's digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for connecting people. Before moving to campus, search for official social media groups or forums dedicated to incoming freshmen at your college. Join these communities to start interacting with your future classmates. Here, you can introduce yourself, ask questions, and find potential friends who share your interests. Participating in these online communities will not only help you make friends but also provide valuable information about the college, courses, and campus life.

2. Attend Orientation Events 

Many colleges host orientation events for incoming freshmen. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to make friends before moving on campus. Orientations often include ice-breaking activities, group discussions, and games designed to help students get to know each other. Engage actively in these sessions, be open-minded, and initiate conversations with your peers. Remember, everyone is in the same boat as you, looking to make friends and build connections.

3. Get Active in Sports 

Sports can be a fantastic avenue for building friendships and bonding with like-minded individuals. If you have a passion for sports or even a slight interest, consider joining sports-related social media groups or forums specific to your college. This will allow you to connect with potential teammates and sports enthusiasts before arriving on campus. Many colleges also organize virtual sports events or clubs where you can interact with others who share your athletic interests. Whether it's joining an intramural team, attending virtual workout sessions, or discussing your favorite sports, getting active in sports can be an exciting way to find friends who share your enthusiasm for physical activities.

4. Get on the Wisr App 

Wisr is a powerful social networking app designed specifically for college communities. It allows incoming freshmen to connect with current and other new students to engage in meaningful conversations, seek advice, and build friendships within the college community. With Wisr, you can join topic-based discussions, explore various student groups and clubs, and participate in virtual events hosted by the college. Ask your college admission team for an invitation to their Wisr community and make friends from the comfort of your own home.

Making friends before moving to campus is an excellent way to alleviate the nervousness that often accompanies the transition to college life. Hopefully, with this advice, you can embrace this new chapter in your life enthusiastically, surrounded by friends who will make your college experience truly memorable.

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