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A Guide to Connecting, Engaging and Thriving

Monday, January 27, 2025

Being a college student is an exciting time filled with new opportunities, people and experiences. One of the most important things you can do during your time at OSU is build a strong community — both socially and academically. Surrounding yourself with people can help you feel more at home and connected to the campus.

Whether you're a freshman or a transfer student, there are plenty of ways to get involved and meet people at OSU. Here are some tips on how to build your community, engage in campus life and make lasting friendships.

Join Student Organizations and Clubs

One of the easiest ways to meet new people is by joining student organizations. OSU has over 500 clubs and organizations, so there’s something for everyone! Here are a few types of clubs you might want to explore:

Academic and Professional Organizations: These organizations offer networking opportunities, guest speakers and professional development activities that can help you grow both personally and professionally.
Cultural Clubs: The International Students Organization or the Black Student Association can help you connect with people from different backgrounds, learn about different cultures and promote inclusion on campus.
Special Interest Clubs: Whether you're into photography, poetry, gaming or volunteering, there's a club for you at OSU.
Leadership Development: Various organizations have been created to help students develop leadership abilities while making a positive impact on the community. The Student Government Association (SGA) is an excellent way to get involved in campus decision-making and advocacy.

Woman with hands on her hips. Smiling saying "Good for you for putting yourself out there!"

Get Active with Intramural Sports

Sports aren’t just for athletes — they’re a fun way to stay active, relieve stress and build friendships. Playing in an intramural league is a great way to meet people outside of your academic circles. Some popular intramural sports include flag football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, kickball and more!

Man talking with a mask hanging from one ear. He is saying "But the real loser is gonna be you, if you don't get involved in your community."

Attend Campus Events and Socials

OSU hosts many events throughout the year designed to bring students together. There's always something happening on campus. Here are a few ways you can engage:

Student Union Events: The Student Union is the heart of campus life. From weekly lunchtime performances to themed events, the Union offers lots of ways to engage with other students. Keep an eye on their calendar for opportunities to socialize and network.
OSU Calendar: Countless events happen all around campus each and every day. Check out the OSU Calendar to find an event that sounds enjoyable to you!

Tips for Making Friends at OSU

Making friends in college can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips for forming meaningful connections at OSU:

Be Open and Approachable: Smile, introduce yourself and be genuinely interested in getting to know others. People appreciate kindness and authenticity.
Attend Study Groups and Office Hours: Studying with classmates not only helps you academically, but also gives you a chance to form connections with people who share similar interests and academic goals.
Start Conversations: Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with people around you — whether it’s in class, at the gym or at an event. Often, all it takes is a simple “Hi, I’m [your name]!” to start a new friendship.
Be Consistent: Building a friendship takes time and effort. Continue to show up at events, participate in activities and make an effort to get to know people beyond just the surface level.

Take Care of Yourself

Finally, remember that building a community takes time, and it’s important to take care of yourself along the way. Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to be everywhere at once. Balance your social life with self-care practices like exercise, downtime and sleep. A healthy, balanced lifestyle will make it easier to engage with others and enjoy your time at OSU.

man smiling saying "Look at you making friends."

Building a community is about putting yourself out there, getting involved and finding people who share your values and interests. Whether you’re joining a club, playing intramural sports or attending campus events, there are countless opportunities to meet people and make lasting friendships. So, take that first step, get involved and watch your college experience transform as you connect with the Cowboy family!