During college, students are left alone with their freedom. For freshers, the campus can be a daunting and unfamiliar place, but it's up to every student to become proactive with their social life. So get involved on campus, join a team, or head along to a college social or two. Contact your local student union for information on events and activities to help you get out to meet new people.
Start Early
Over the first couple of days in college, try to meet and talk to as many people as you can in your class. Some assertiveness early on in the college year can work to establish friendships that will last for the duration of your course and even for the rest of your life.
Study!
Not only are study groups helpful, but they will also allow you to meet other students in your classes.A good idea is to organise a study date with fellow class members after receiving your first assignment in college.
Get Involved on Campus
Your freshman year is the ideal year to join a club or organization. Many colleges in Ireland offer a variety of organizations to choose from and they provide a steady source of new people to meet.
Look out for notices on bulletin board around campus or in your local students' union.
Be Part of the Team
Playing sports can be a great confidence builder and motivator. Look at it as an ego booster. By doing something physical every week you're getting your heart pumping, which is good for the body and helps keep you healthy.
Join a Club
Take advantage of your college gym, swimming pool or one of the college club. Don't hesitate to sign up for the college yoga or cycling class. Going to a common place on campus will allow you to meet others doing something you share an interest in.
Click here for a list of local student union websites.
For LGBT students, here is a list of contact details for the relevant college societies:
Blanchardstown IT
Cork Institute of Technology
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Dublin City University
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Dublin Institute of Technology
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GMIT Castlebar
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IT Sligo
IT Tralee
National College of Art & Design
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Letterkenny IT
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National Colleges of Ireland
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NUI Galway
NUI Maynooth
Queens University Belfast
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Trinity College Dublin
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University College Cork
University College Dublin
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University of Limerick
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University of Ulster
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Waterford Institute of Technology
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