With tens of thousands of students at UBC, finding friends and community can seem daunting. But the diversity of people and experiences also means that any student can find a space right for them. Here are a few tips to consider when situating yourself in this new social space.

GET INVOLVED AND STAY INVOLVED

Joining a club is a common piece of advice for finding friendships. Regularly engaging with the same people is likely to create lasting relationships. An easy way to do this is committing to one consistent activity where you talk to the same people, whether it be at weekly club events, dinner with roommates, Ubyssey meetings or elsewhere. You will have both a regular chance to socialize and the feeling of being part of a community.

EXPLORE CAMPUS LIFE

UBC has plenty of events and places to find other students. Events, your classes or even your residence will have plenty of students with similar interests. Even if you do not meet your new best friends, you can still feel more connected to others and find your favourite spaces.

BE THE FIRST TO MAKE PLANS

Asking to make plans with new people can be scary, and a lot of people avoid doing so. At the same time, it is incredibly difficult to become friends with someone without hanging out. Asking via text or DM can make the experience less stressful. Suggesting a day to check out the place you both wanted to go to or even something as simple as, “hi, would you be interested in getting coffee together saturday?” can be the catalyst for a great friendship.

UNDERSTAND YOU’RE NOT ALONE

Making and keeping friends is hard, and feeling lonely on occasion is normal. Your communities and social circles may also change over the course of your degree. Despite these challenges, so many other students are experiencing the same thing and are looking to make new friends. Hopefully, with a little effort, you can meet some of them.