As any collegiate athlete knows, playing a sport in college is like a full-time job on top of classes. That leaves you little time for a social life outside of your team and that can get lonely! Here is a list of ways to branch out to make sure you make those crucial connections through your college years.
- Join a Sorority or Fraternity
Some schools and coaches don't let you, but if you are one of the lucky ones where it is allowed, joining a sorority or fraternity can be an amazing opportunity to branch out and meet new people. If there are older teammates who are navigating Greek Life as well as the sport, ask them what their experience has been like, and if they can show you the ropes.
Related: Balancing Greek Life With College Athletics
- Join a club
College has tons of clubs for every interest. Go to your college fair and browse the different ones available. Talk to the members, find out the time commitment, and see if any might be a good fit for you.
- Get a job
Navigating a job on top of school and a sport can be tough. However, there are flexible jobs out there! Find a place where you can work and meet people with flexible working hours and schedules. Also, the cash at the end of the month doesn't hurt!
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
- Reach out to your classmates
Class is already built into your busy schedule on top of your sport. Might as well use it to make friends! Be sure to introduce yourself to your classmates and exchange emails, numbers, and social media info. It's a great way to meet people, and also a great way to make sure you know someone in each class in case you run into any issues.
- Connect with the people on your dorm floor
A lot of people are in the same boat coming into college–no matter if you're an athlete or not, you're bound to be surrounded by strangers! So try leaving your door open when you're in your room the first week and see if you meet some people. More importantly, be outgoing and reach out to those who might not have a chance to stop by. Who knows who you might meet just down the hall?
Going to college can be scary. Add in being an athlete with limited time, and it can feel like you never have time to meet new people. Follow these tips if you want to find friends, and at the end of the day remember: putting yourself out there is the only way. Most people are looking to make new friends and meet people, so they'll welcome you! You get as much out of it as you put into it. It is possible to make these friends as an athlete and form some lasting connections!
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* Originally published on July 21, 2022, by Claire Borman
