My five-year college reunion is right around the corner...actually coming up way faster than I wish it would, since I'm co-chairing our hospitality committee and there's still lots to be done. So obviously I've been feeling nostalgic about my alma mater as of late. The good food, challenging classes, hours spent in the library (nerd alert), meaningful traditions, no doing dishes...and living so god damn close to my friends.
There was nothing like being just a floor away from them -- or across campus at most. The women I met at Mt. Holyoke were one of the best things about going there, and I know I owe them more good memories than I can count. I'm especially grateful that we're still so close, five years later. (Three of them were in my wedding party last May and many more attended.)
But maybe you've experienced this, too. After graduation, people move. My college friends are scattered across the globe, from Texas to San Francisco to Gibraltar, and it can be hard to see them as often as I'd like, even if they just live in New York City.
And the landscape of making friends has totally changed post-college, post-everybody-living-in-the-same-square-mile. All of a sudden there's no dining hall where you can meet somebody new, no crappy professor to bond with a classmate over. Not to mention, like you, friends who might live close by are adjusting to new work schedules, career goals, and relationships. It can be tough to find time to grab a cup of coffee together.
And I've actually made great friends IRL through this blog (like this lady who I can't wait to see again this summer). But having a good local network matters too, to me at least. Lately I've been trying to expand a little. Here are some things I've been trying to do to meet more new friends nearby:
- Volunteering: It can connect you with likeminded people who you might get along with, and it attracts individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I've been volunteering at the AIDS Foundation of Western Massachusetts for a couple of years and have become really good friends with the executive director (which is great because it means I get to babysit her adorable baby daughter!).
- Going out more: I don't mean, like, clubbing. I've been trying to say yes (within reason) to more small concerts, parties, lunch/coffee dates, trips to the dog park. Not only has this helped with my anxiety, but I feel more connected to my community and the people I know.
- Talking to friends of friends: We were at this Indiana Jones-themed birthday party (yes, for an adult) a few weeks ago and didn't really know anybody except for the people throwing the party. But it ended up being a great opportunity to meet their friends, who I'm looking forward to hanging out with soon and getting to know better!
- Taking a class or joining a group: I haven't actually tried this yet, but it's definitely on my list. My sprained ankle is on the mend but taking its time (thanks to an old squash injury from college). As soon as it's feeling better, I plan on joining a class or two at the local Y. (Maybe spinning? It sure does look like women in movies enjoy that.) Local craft classes also happen pretty frequently at Essentials and Knack.
So is this something you can relate to? What do you do to make local connections?
