College is such a unique time in your life. You’re in a rare limbo: you have the independence of being an adult, without all the responsibilities, and the freedom of still being young without having to be looked after.

Since this special era only last a few years, we all strive to make the most of it. One of the best ways to make the most of your college years is to break out of your shell and really explore what the world has to offer. Read on for some simple ways to escape your comfort zone so you can make the most of your college experience.

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Meeting New People

• If you’re living in the dorms during your first year, you know it is nearly impossible to not meet new people around your dorm. However, it shouldn’t end at learning a few new names and hometowns; take time to get to know these new friends and strangers on a deeper level.
• Talk to people that you maybe wouldn’t have given the time of day in high school. You’re not going to become BFF with every person you meet, but you’ll get to hear about all kinds of backgrounds and lifestyles that you may never have been exposed to otherwise. Resist the urge to make snap judgments and you’ll expand your social horizons.
• Ask questions! The easiest way to get to know someone is to take an active interest in them, so when meeting a new person, ask them plenty of questions and you’ll get to know them on a deeper level. In addition, everyone’s favorite topic is, you guessed it, themselves, so by asking people questions about themselves, you will make them like you more. It’s a win-win.
• The great thing about learning about new people is you get a chance to share a part of yourself, and this pushes you to really think about who you are and what you’re all about. You can start to realize your best qualities, and think about some that maybe you want to change, which are both great steps towards becoming the person you want to be.

Some girls change a lot in college, others just further define their existing sense of identity. Either way, meeting new people and learning about them is a positive experience that will benefit you for the rest of your life!