Being a freshman, at a new college, in a new city, filled with new people and experiences, can be a bit overwhelming. Making friends in this new environment can be overwhelming, especially for ones that come from a small town environment that lacks diversity and where everybody knows each other, but if you immerse yourself into activities and organizations, you could have more friends then you know what to do with.

There are many different options for the ones who do not want to be socially awkward for their college career. There are a large number of organizations and groups you could join, dozens of intramural teams to join and exercise while doing it, going around and introducing yourself and meeting people on the floor of your dorm or joining a Greek organization.

A great way to meet new people when you first come to college is simply by going to your school’s Orientation weekend and going to the activities fair. Orientation Weekend Coordinator Melanie Zeleznik said, “Any organization on campus can join, you walk around, most of the tables are interactive, play a game learn about the organization, and if it is something you are interested in you can join the email list and receives updates about that organization.”

Joining an intramural sport is a great way to meet new people with the same interests as you, while working out and being active.

“I’ve met a lot of people who I’m now good friends with through intramurals,” senior Scotty McEvoy said. “It was a great way to socialize and get to know many people. There have also been social skills I’ve learned like conflict, resolution, communication and patience.”

Another great way to meet people is by becoming part of a Greek organization. Not only do you get to meet new people, but you also create life-long bonds with your “brothers” or “sisters.” “I didn’t join until my sophomore year, and I just saw all the great things they were doing around campus, I thought it would be a great place to meet a lot of new people, because there a lot of different people involved in Greek life,” said Vice President of Membership for the Panhellenic Council Gina Tornabene.

If you just allow yourself to put yourself out there, you are more then likely to meet friends and enjoy your freshman year. These new friends will be able to help you get through the hard times and homesickness., but most importantly, just be yourself. College is your time. Don’t waste your chance at a new chapter in your life, and relax. All good things come with time, and have no regrets. Move forward, you will have your chances. Good luck!