Advice for Building Strong Relationships Throughout College

Getting Started: Where to Make Connections

Go to Orientation and Welcome Events: The first few weeks on campus are filled with orientation sessions and welcome events. These are excellent opportunities to meet faculty members, student leaders, and advisors. Attend as many of these events as possible to get a sense of who’s who on campus.

Attend Office Hours: Professors and teaching assistants hold office hours expressly to help students. This is a fantastic opportunity to get one-on-one time with them. Don’t just show up when you have questions about an assignment; drop by to discuss topics that interest you or to seek advice about your academic path.

Join Student Clubs: Most campuses have many student organizations related to various academic fields and interests. Joining these groups can connect you with faculty advisors and other students who have been in your shoes. They can offer valuable advice and possibly become mentors. Student clubs can be a great way to meet people with shared interests.

Make Connections Through Shared Interests: Finding strong connections isn’t just about who’s the most knowledgeable; it’s about who you can relate with. Look for professors or students who share your interests, whether it’s a specific academic subject, a research topic, or even a hobby. A shared passion can lay the foundation for connections that help enrich your college career and beyond.

Attend Campus Events: Lectures, seminars, and workshops are great places to meet professors and leaders outside the classroom. These events often provide informal settings to engage faculty and ask questions about their work and interests.

Be an Active Participant in Class: You build connections with your professors and classmates when you actively engage in class. Engage in class discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and show genuine interest in the subject matter. Professors and other students will notice your active participation and be more likely to want to work with you.

Network with Other Students: Your classmates can be an excellent resource for introducing you to more people. They likely have connections and can introduce you to like-minded people. Plus, they can share their experiences and recommendations.

How to Foster Strong Connections

Be Proactive

Don’t wait for people to come to you. Take the initiative to schedule a meeting and follow up on conversations. Show that you’re committed to learning and growing. Keep track of who you meet and any insights they share, and express your interest and intention of staying in touch.

Stay in Touch

Keep in touch with important connections even after a course ends or you’ve moved on to different academic pursuits. Update them on your progress, seek advice on new challenges, and continue to nurture the relationship.

Be Respectful of Their Time

Professors and leaders have busy schedules, so be mindful of their time. Be prepared for your meetings, have specific questions or topics, and be punctual. This shows that you value their time and input.

Finding and connecting with others will help you get the most out of your college experience. They can provide invaluable support, open doors to new opportunities, and even become lifelong friends. A good relationship will last long after graduating from college. Now is a great time to start laying the foundations for these enriching experiences.