How To Make a Big College Seem Smaller

At big lectures, sit in the first few rows of class and don’t be afraid to throw your hand up occasionally to ask a question or make a comment. Not only will you make new friends by sitting in the same area everyday, but if you get the professor to notice you, those 300-seat lecture halls will start to feel like actual classrooms.

Visit professors during office hours. Whether you stop by to seek help with an assignment or just to chat, talking with your teachers one-on-one is a great way to get specialized attention.

One upside to a big school is that it offers a ton of campus organizations catering to specific interests. Intramural sports, the student literary journal, Greek life, improv comedy – it’s hard not to find at least one activity that suits you.

Being comfortable and happy where you live is crucial. See if your university offers any catered residence halls – such as alcohol-free or 24-hour quiet dorms – where you can meet like-minded students. In regular dorms, create a sense of community by organizing study groups and movie nights.

If you stayed in state for college, there’s a good chance some of the people you went to high school with are just around the corner or down the street. Look up any classmates you know – even if you weren’t all that close – and see what they’re up to. Chances are they’re just as anxious to have a few familiar faces around and would be thrilled to hear from you.

Find a restaurant or coffeehouse near campus where students converge and become a regular there. Securing a designated hangout spot is a great way to give a campus more of a homey feel.