Getting to Know You

One of the beauties of college apartment living is the built-in community. Even in today’s social-media-consumed culture, meeting new people (in person) is fun and important for enabling your personal growth as an independent individual. Plus, the college experience wouldn’t be the same without a few awkward passes in the hallway or holding the door open for someone in the central hub. These communities are generally large in most complexes and many companies behind them offer social events for its tenants. If social events aren’t really your thing there are other ways to meet your neighbors without being the overly eager person who goes around knocking on stranger’s doors.

Check the party board.

Many people will post fliers for events within the community. Here you can find out where and when the next organized social is being held or if there is a community pool party in the works.

Take a look-see at the social areas.

Most complexes are going to have gyms, pools or courts for basketball, tennis or volleyball. Having similar interests are great for breaking the ice with strangers. Next time you need a break from the books, take a stroll through one of these areas and see what sparks.

Organize your own social event.

Open your doors and invite the neighbors to catch the big game. Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball or soccer, sporting events are always a solid bonding experience. If no one seems interested, have drinks and food available as the host; college students never turn down free food or drinks. Publix and Winn-Dixie have lots of pre-arranged party food options – chips, sweets, vegetable trays, buffalo wings. Go online and see what they have to offer.

Form a study group.

Especially during your freshman and sophomore years, the likelihood of you sharing a class with some of your neighbors is strong. General, lecture-hall classes are much more bearable when you can share the struggle with new friends.

Jog around the complex.

A healthy lifestyle is important in college and you’ll generally find your fellow students to feel similarly. Instead of worrying about expensive gym fees, just walk or jog the complex. It’s likely that the terrain will be more stable and pristine which helps to prevent any turned ankles. While exercising, you can say hi to others and get to know the faces in your community.

Use your front porch or balcony to study.

Especially once the fall kicks in, your porch or balcony is a great, relaxing way to hang out and get to know the neighbors as they pass. Next time you’re studying, sit on your porch and do so. Make an effort to say hello and wave, should some people pass by, and see what kind of conversation you can get into.

Talk to the community manager.

Community managers are all about creating social events for their tenants. If you’re having trouble making new friends, go and speak to them. See if they can set up a sports tournament within the community and get teams formed in the process. Nothing brings people together more than sports (except maybe free food – see No. 3).

What are some other great ways of getting to know other people in your community? Share your ideas with us in the comment section below!