Starting college, transferring schools, or coming back for a new semester can feel like everyone already has their friend group figured out. Chances are, plenty of other Redbirds are looking to meet new people, too. Whether you’re a freshman or heading into graduate school, it’s never too late to find your people.
If you’re wondering how to make friends at Illinois State University, start with the places you already spend time. A conversation before class, a campus club, or an event at your apartment community could be the beginning of your next friendship. Here are five places to start.
1. Get Involved in Clubs and Student Organizations at ISU
Joining a club or student organization gives you something in common before you even introduce yourself. Whether you’re into sports, volunteering, gaming, Greek life, or connecting with people in your major, choose something you’re excited about.
Give yourself a few meetings before deciding whether it’s a good fit. The first time might feel awkward, especially if you go alone, but seeing familiar faces each week makes it easier to start conversations.
Try this: Check out Redbird Life for ways to get involved at Illinois State University. Pick a group that interests you and reach out about attending a meeting.
2. Meet People in Your Classes and Major
You already see your classmates every week, so take advantage of it. Put your phone down before class, say hi to the person next to you, and ask how they’re feeling about the next assignment.
Once you’ve talked a few times, ask if they want to study before an exam or grab coffee after class. As you take more courses in your major, you may start seeing the same people each semester. Having someone to compare notes with can turn into having someone to make weekend plans with.
3. Make Friends at Your Off-Campus Apartment
Your off-campus apartment can be more than the place you come home to after class. It’s also a chance to meet other ISU students outside your usual circle. Your next friend could be your roommate, live down the hall, or work out at the same time as you.
– Show Up to Resident Events
Follow your apartment community on Instagram and keep an eye out for upcoming resident events. Stop by, even if you’re going alone or can only stay for a little while. An activity gives you something to talk about, and you’ll have a familiar face to say hi to next time.
– Spend Time in Shared Spaces
Use the amenities! A workout, an afternoon by the pool, or dinner at the grills can give you a chance to get to know your neighbors. When you start seeing the same people regularly, a quick hello can turn into a conversation—and maybe an invite to the next watch party.
At The Social Normal, shared amenity spaces give residents opportunities to connect and make off-campus living part of their college social life.
– Explore Roommate Matching
If you’re looking for a roommate, roommate matching is a great option. Just ask questions up front to make sure the process is a good one. At The Social Normal, residents complete an in-depth questionnaire about their preferences, habits, and lifestyles, so you’re paired with someone who fits you. It’s a great way to find a compatible roommate and maybe even a new best friend.
4. Get to Know Your Friends’ Friends
Your roommate’s classmates, your coworker’s friends, or someone you meet through a club could become part of your circle. When someone invites you to join their plans, give it a chance even if you only know the person who invited you.
You don’t have to say yes to everything. But if the main thing holding you back is “I won’t know anyone,” that’s exactly how you get to know people.
Return the invite, too. A movie night at your apartment, a coffee run, or a trip to an ISU game gives everyone an easy reason to hang out.
5. Make the Most of Campus Events
There are tons of events (and many are free) that come with being an ISU student. Four years go fast, so take advantage of the sporting events, campus recreation, concerts, student org showcases, and campus traditions. You never know who you’ll meet or what new interest you’ll find, and you’ll be glad you went when you look back on your time as a Redbird.
Find Your People at Illinois State University
Making friends at ISU takes time, and you don’t need to find your entire group in the first week—or even the first semester. Start with one conversation, one invite, or one event, and keep showing up.
When you meet someone you enjoy talking to, follow up. Ask how their exam went, send them the event you mentioned, or invite them to study again. A little effort can turn a familiar face into a friend.
