Making Social Connections

Most of us realize the importance of having some form of community or friendship in our lives, but when you are starting something new, like university, it can be hard to establish these connections. You’re busy rushing from class to class, or studying, or working. Sometimes it can be hard to realize the importance and necessity of making a bit of time here and there to spend time with friends. But study after study proves that meaningful social connections help us all - they give us a support network when things are tough, give us a break from the books so our brain has a chance to recharge, and give us ample chances to laugh and remember that life is about more than just our grades, alleviating a lot of our stress.

Tips

  1. Get yourself out there. Spend time with friends or family. Join an activity or a club you enjoy or volunteer to meet people with common interests.
  2. Open and respectful communication. Express your needs and emotions using open and honest communication. If conflict arises, respectfully listen and let go of the need to be right.
  3. Recognize your mistakes. We all do things that intentionally or unintentionally hurt others. Take responsibility for your actions by apologizing and choosing to change the behaviour.
  4. Schedule it in. If you are really busy, it can be easy to forget about your social life. Use your calendar to plan ahead - book a coffee with a friend, make sure that monthly club meeting is in there, and try not to cancel unless it is absolutely necessary. Your social well-being is too important!
  5. Take time for you. The relationship you have with yourself is as important to nurture as your relationships with others. Schedule time for activities that help you feel grounded and balanced. It could be going for a walk, meditating, praying, having a hobby, listening to music or spending time in nature.

Campus Resources

  • SAMRU Student Clubs | Join a club to meet new, like-minded people and pursue your passions.
  • Intramural Sports | Meet new people, while also doing an activity you enjoy. Recreation offers intramural leagues for a variety of different sports and skill levels. 
  • Student Counselling Services | Our counsellors can provide you with lots of relationship advice, communication strategies and resources.
  • Volunteer at MRU | Or explore off-campus opportunities!
  • SAMRU Events Calendar | Upcoming events and programs offered by SAMRU.

Online Resources

Community Resources