How to Make Friends and Get Involved at Carleton

New international students, make friends and get involved at Carleton!

Special thanks to Aisha Ahmed, Carleton's international student in a Bachelor of Health Sciences program, who wrote this blog post for you!

Starting university can be exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to making new friends and finding your place in a new community. At Carleton University, there are countless opportunities to connect with others and get involved in campus life. Here are some tips to help you build friendships and become an active member of the Carleton community.

Participate in orientation programs

• Orientation Week: Carleton's Orientation Week is designed to help new students transition into university life. It includes a variety of events, workshops, and social activities where you can meet fellow first-year students.
• International Student Orientation: If you're an international student, attend the special orientation sessions tailored for you. These events will help you meet other international students and learn about the resources available to you.
• Residence Life Events: If you live on campus, participate in the residence life events organized by your residence advisors (RAs). These activities are designed to help residents bond and create a supportive community.

Join student organizations and clubs

• Explore Your Interests: Carleton offers a wide range of clubs and student organizations, from academic and professional groups to cultural and hobby-based clubs. Joining one (or several!) is a great way to meet like-minded people and pursue your passions.
• Attend Club Fairs: At the beginning of each semester, Carleton hosts club fairs where you can learn about the different student organizations on campus. Take the time to visit the booths and talk to current members to find out what interests you.
• Get Involved Early: The sooner you join a club or organization, the faster you'll start building connections and making friends. Don't be afraid to dive in and participate actively.

Take advantage of social media platforms

• Join Online Communities: Connect with other Carleton students through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Many clubs and organizations have online groups where you can stay updated on events and activities.

And probably the best advice, in my opinion, is to smile and say hello! :). Sometimes, the simplest gestures can make a big difference. Smile and say hello to people you pass by on campus. Small acts of friendliness can lead to meaningful connections. University is a time to step out of your comfort zone. Be open to trying new things and meeting people from different backgrounds. You never know who you might connect with.