<p>So I’m rounding out my freshman year here at CP and I’ve made some really good, close friends in my dorm. It was easy living in a high rise to form and keep connections with people, because everyone gathers in somebody’s cramped prison or the lounge basically daily. Also, there’s always a party in the dorm or off campus that everyone is invited to.</p>
<p>But despite the friends I’ve made, I still want to meet more people because I don’t feel like I fit in with the overall group I fell into. I’m afraid of next year, though! I won’t be living in a high rise (probably a smaller traditional residence hall or a suite/apartment) and I’m afraid people won’t be as open to making new friends now that we’re not all “new”.</p>
<p>So if any Maryland student can share their experiences about how to make and form really good friendships with people after freshmen year, maybe even stories about mixing up their friend base entirely, tell me about it…</p>
<p>You need to just get out there when you move into the new dorm. The best thing about you that I take away is you are so positive, I am sure people will want to hang with you for that.</p>
<p>Bullet went to UMCP and he didn’t have the problem because he was ROTC, so his social life and living situation was built around that. I went to a different university, but I get it when you say that you don’t fit with the overall group. If there is a particular person/s that you get along with very well keep in touch with them during the summer. Many people have problems at large universities because of the size, but it sounds like you don’t so just keep being you!</p>
<p>Seek out different clubs and activities from the beginning of the year. Look for people to study with from your classes next semester. Although some of the friendships I made in freshman year dorm continued through college (and even now, centuries later!), I made many different friends throughout school. You’re always switching it up in school…just take advantage and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself. Even since you’re not new to the university, most dorms have ice-breakers/activities at the beginning of the year…even though some of the faces may be the same, many “new” people will be there, too.</p>