The first step on campus can be super overwhelming; an unfamiliar place with completely new people isn’t easy to grapple with. That being said, UW-Madison is a huge place full of exciting opportunities and wonderful people to interact with. Here are some tips that will help you take that first step to making your time here some of the best years of your life!
- Welcome Week
A great way to meet people in your first week on campus is through Welcome Week events! The university organizes an entire week of social gatherings, including service events like Bucky’s Big Event, and festivals like the Sunburst Festival. These activities are great to meet people quickly and can all be found in the UW-Guide app. - Club Fairs
The UW Student Organization Fair is another fantastic way to meet like-minded people with similar interests and find a community. There are hundreds of student organizations on campus, each fulfilling different interests and hobbies. These can be professional clubs like professional fraternities, or hobby-based clubs like a sport. Whatever the topic, there is most likely a club, and people who are passionate just like you in it. - The Internet
Social media creates massive opportunities to connect with people, even in person. Finding people on Snapchat, Instagram and Reddit where lots of people have conversations can be a great way to find people with common interests, and build those conversations into real relationships.
An example of an organization fair.
Lastly, do not be afraid to have the confidence to talk to people! It often goes better than you think, and its the best way to make friends!