I’ve discussed ways to meet people on-campus, but it’s also worth thinking about how to meet some people off-campus. By expanding your social horizons, you’ll be able to meet even more various types of people, get involved with groups that have similar interests, and maybe even meet someone from a faraway city and travel back home with them. So how do you go about meeting people off-campus? Here are a few strategies.

One of the best ways of making connections is through interest clubs. If you’re a runner, you can join a running club and meet other runners. If you’re into quilting, join a quilting group. Like to play Go? Find a club that meets at a local coffee shop a couple times a week and start playing regularly. To find clubs like these, just get on Google and start searching. Pay attention to your campus newspaper as well, as groups may advertise there to get some exposure.

Going out on the weekends, as cliché as this may be, can also be a good way to meet people. If you’re a pretty social person and can get along with just about anyone you meet, you probably won’t have any trouble making connections if you go out to bars, clubs, or concerts;. While bars and clubs may not be the best places to meet people, it can definitely be a lot of fun!

If it’s a more romantic relationship you’re looking for, think about trying an online dating service. Some people are hesitant to use sites like eHarmony or Match.com, but many people have been very happy with their success using these sites (in fact, I know people who have started serious relationships—even one that led to marriage). Even though you’re likely to meet many people on campus that you may be interested in dating, don’t discount the online route.

If you’re an athletic individual, going to a local park and playing a pick-up game of your chosen sport is a fun way to meet people that have a common interest. If you live in a college town (which, because you’re going to college, you almost definitely will be), it’s almost certain that you’ll be able to find a game of basketball, ultimate, kickball, soccer, or softball going on somewhere near where you live. Head out there some afternoon and get in the game! It’s a great way to make friends and meet people.

At first, it seems like it might be difficult to meet people off-campus, because you spend so much time on-campus and don’t have many interactions outside of your college. But there are many opportunities for making friends—just get out there, do something you enjoy, and find more people who enjoy it as well.

As always, if you have any questions, comments or funny stories you'd like me to share about college or the blog, email me at stu@stuvu.com