I would be Strawberry Lemonade because I’ll always have a few sweet or sour days!

Texans are struggling to make friends in college As another semester passes, many students are finding themselves still struggling to make friends on campus. While college is thought of as a time for self-discovery, networking and making memorable friendships, several Tarleton students are experiencing the opposite during their time here. Tarleton’s Division of Student Affairs says their best advice given to students is getting involved. However, in an anonymous survey taken on campus; one respondent says, “I’m not always free [be]cause I work two jobs.” This can be the case for many student workers as they are balancing long work and study hours, leaving them no time to socialize. While there are several opportunities on campus to make new connections such as clubs, Greek life and events, it can be socially draining and time-consuming. Introversion and the fear of getting out of the comfort zone keeps many from desiring to meet unfamiliar faces. As well as feeling like they will not be socially accepted by their peers, especially on a campus full of different personalities and backgrounds. Another student said they stray away from making new friends because they do not like the idea of cliques in college. While having a friend group may sound better than nothing, there is a lot to consider when being in one. It’s difficult to be available to hang out as every has different schedules. There is also the chance of feeling “left out” of the group when there isn’t an equal balance of dynamics, leading to unnecessary drama. It may even lessen the possibility of making more friends as being in a clique means having a sense of exclusivity within the group. College students are social creatures, and while it may seem pointless to some to invest in friendships that may not always last past graduation, it makes the college experience less overwhelming. A study conducted by the National Library of Medicine says, “Having a best friend present during an experience significantly buffered the effect of the negativity of the experience on cortisol and global self-worth.” There are several ways to meet new people without struggling to find time or causing more stress. Setting up study dates with people from class is a productive way to stay social. Tarleton also offers an event board called Texan Sync that includes a list of events and times happening on campus that are open to all students. While it may seem intimidating to get out there, finding at least one friend can lead the way to many more.