How to Make Friends Your Freshman Year

Starting college comes with a lot of firsts, first dorm, first classes, maybe even first time living away from home. But one of the most important (and sometimes intimidating) parts of freshman year is making new friends. 

The good news? Almost everyone is in the same boat. Whether you’re naturally outgoing or more reserved, there are plenty of ways to build meaningful friendships during your first year. It just takes a little courage, effort, and consistency. Here’s how to make those first connections and keep them going. 

1. Say Yes Even When You’re Nervous 

There will be dozens of opportunities in your first few weeks to meet new people: floor dinners, campus events, club fairs, game nights, group chats. It might feel awkward at first, but saying “yes” early on can open the door to friendships that stick. 

You don’t have to go to everything, but showing up, even briefly, makes a difference. The more you put yourself in social spaces, the more familiar faces you’ll start to recognize—and connect with. 

2. Join Something (Even If You’re Not 100% Sure About It) 

Clubs, organizations, student councils, intramural sports, service projects—there’s something for everyone. And one of the easiest ways to meet people with shared interests is by joining a group activity. 

Not sure if you’ll love it? Try it anyway. Even if the activity itself isn’t for you, the people you meet might be. Sometimes the best friendships start in unexpected places. 

3. Be the One Who Reaches Out 

It might feel like everyone else already has a group, but that’s rarely true. Most students are open to meeting new people and they’re just waiting for someone else to make the first move. Be that someone. 

Invite the person next to you in class to grab coffee after. Ask a classmate if they want to study together. Suggest grabbing lunch with someone from your dorm. You don’t need a perfect excuse, just be friendly and genuine. 

4. Keep Showing Up 

Friendships take time. One coffee hangout doesn’t automatically turn into a best friend situation. The key is consistency. Keep showing up to the same club meetings, group workouts, or weekly game nights. 

The more people see you, the more naturally conversations (and connections) start to happen. Familiarity breeds comfort and comfort builds trust. 

5. Be Open and Honest 

You don’t have to share your whole life story on day one, but letting people see the real you matters. Don’t be afraid to admit if you’re feeling overwhelmed or homesick, chances are, they’ve been there too. 

Being honest about where you’re at makes it easier for others to relate to you. Real friendships come from real moments. 

6. Take Some Pressure Off 

Trying to make friends while managing your schedule, assignments, and a new environment can be a lot. That’s where Thea comes in. 

Thea helps you get your academic life organized so you can focus on living your life outside of class. 

• Create study kits in seconds so you can spend less time prepping and more time connecting. 

• Summarize your class notes if you miss a lecture to go to a club event or social. 

• Use memorization tools and flashcards on the go, so you can still study without canceling plans. 

  
  

The less time you spend stressing about school, the more mental space you have to show up fully for new friendships and experiences. 

7. Give Yourself Grace 

Not every connection will become a lifelong friendship—and that’s okay. Some people are just passing through your life, while others will stick. Don’t overthink it. 

If you’re feeling lonely or like things aren’t clicking right away, you’re not alone. It takes time. The important thing is to keep putting yourself out there, even in small ways. The right people will come. 

Back to Thea 

Your first year of college is about so much more than grades, it’s about finding your people, figuring out who you are, and building a life that feels like yours. Thea is here to support your academic goals so you have the time and space to explore everything else college has to offer—including the friendships that make it all worthwhile. 

Looking to make more time for connection this semester? Try Thea and let studying be one less thing to worry about. 

Sign up for free!