We all arrive at college the same way — nervous, with a suitcase in hand and thousands of unanswered questions swirling around in our heads. Maybe back in high school, you knew everyone in your class. Even at larger schools, there’s often a sense of familiarity that’s comforting.
Leaving behind your family’s warmth, the laughter of your hometown friends and the daily rhythms of your old life isn’t easy. But it’s a necessary step for growth.
Entering college means giving yourself the chance to learn new things, challenge your comfort zone and build a new version of yourself.
When you first get to Penn State, it’s common to feel out of place. I did — more times than I care to admit. Like so many others, I wondered how to make friends, feel comfortable and how to turn this big, unfamiliar place into something that felt like home.
During my first weeks in State College, living in Robinson Hall, what helped me the most was getting involved in student organizations. Penn State has hundreds of clubs, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you love to write, cook, play chess, or want to learn yoga, you’ll find a place where you belong.
The involvement fair at the beginning of each semester is a great starting point. It’s an energetic space full of possibility. If the crowds overwhelm you or your schedule doesn’t allow it, that’s okay. Most clubs are very active on Instagram and regularly post meeting details and events. All it takes is one message or one click to find a new opportunity.
While the first meeting might feel awkward or unfamiliar, don’t give up too quickly. Give the club a few chances. Talk to the people next to you. Introduce yourself to the executive board, they’re there to welcome you.
With time, you might not feel at home or you might become a leader. Many students, including myself, found new confidence by joining a club they loved and eventually taking on a leadership role. It’s incredibly fulfilling and a great way to grow personally and professionally.
One of the most exciting parts of college is the chance to discover new sides of yourself. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try rock climbing or take up dance, but never had the chance. Now is the moment. You don’t have to be good at something to try it. College is about exploration, and sometimes the passions you never considered end up being the ones that change your life.
I found some of my closest friends by signing up for classes that genuinely interested me. It’s true that making friends in class can be tricky — bridging the gap between classmates and real friends isn’t always easy. When you enroll in courses you’re excited about, like creative writing or art, you meet people who share your passions.
That’s how I met my best friend — in an international literature class. She mentioned a book, I chimed in, and the rest was history. Another friend and I bonded over his blog about Webtoons. If someone in class seems approachable or shares your interests, don’t be afraid to start a conversation. The worst that can happen is silence, and if that’s the case, they’re the ones missing out.
Beyond clubs and classes, I’d also recommend attending campus events. Penn State hosts a wide variety of them, from fall festivals to cultural showcases. These events are a great way to invite new friends, strike up conversations with people and enjoy the vibrant community around you. Many of the students you’ll meet are just as eager to connect as you are.
One last piece of advice: say yes when it feels right. I know it’s easy to retreat when everything feels overwhelming, but try not to. If someone invites you to a movie night or a book club, go. You might end up making a new friend — or at the very least, a new memory.
Introduce yourself to your dorm neighbors, attend the floor events and let yourself be part of something new.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Change isn’t easy, but it’s a great teacher. Pushing through discomfort, trying new things and allowing yourself to be open to connection will help you find your people. Once you do, Penn State will begin to feel a lot more like home.
