Hi! My name is Scott Raileanu and I am a Jewish Studies major in the Arts and Humanities College here at UMD. I actually transferred here and love it so much that I signed up to be an Orientation advisor so that I can help freshman and transfers adjust to life at University of Maryland. But being a transfer student is a bit different from a freshman and there was one topic that was a little tricky when I got here…
So as a transfer student coming to Maryland as a third year sophomore, pretty much too old for Frats but still looking for a solid social scene to enjoy my two or three years here, I wanted to talk about what ways are the best for male transfer students to find a group of guys to chill with. Because lets face it, you can go up to a girl and ask her number or for a drink or grab a bite but when it comes to creating a guy friendship it can sometimes be a bit tricky.
When I transferred this past fall, my first concern was housing. Maryland is notorious for having difficult and sometimes very expensive housing options. And as transfer you’re coming into the market late when all the pickings are slim. So I chose to live in the TEP frat house on college and Dickinson. It was a cheap place ($610) and I thought it would instantly give me some guys to chill with. There were some good guys but just didn’t turn out to be my type of social scene. So I was faced with a dilemma. I had my classes, books, job, and bus schedule figured out, but when it came down to going out to eat or grabbing a drink or just having some guys to go play a game of pick-up basketball I was in a bit of trouble.
So during my semester and a half here I have figured out a few places where guys can meet guys and not seem overly weird -- just make some guy friends. So don’t underestimate the reason why you’re here in the first place: Class. In each class there are going to be guys that have to suffer and study just like you. Grab a seat and strike up a quick conversation before class about the homework readings or the paper or exam you just had. It gives you a quick way to just talk about something and use your class as a way to get to know somebody. See if you can create a study group, swap phone number and after studying ask if anyone wants to catch late night at the diner with you.
Next, go to an Intramurals or a club sports team’s informational meeting. Don’t be shy, you know you used to be all conference JV point guard. Show up to the meeting, stand up when they call out the free agents (aka people who don’t know anyone to form a team with) and join a team that you can meet weekly with and play some cool sports. It’s a win-win; you meet friends and get to have some healthy competitive sports activity.
If sports aren’t your style, maybe try a club you have a hobby in. There plenty of guys in acapella groups, religious groups, environmental groups, terps for change, and many more. Any of these clubs is eager for more members and who knows maybe get a board position in a semester or two and now you’re really cooking. All of these options are available to students and the biggest obstacle that usually gets in a guys way is himself. Don’t worry about trying something new, Hell! You’re the one that wanted to transfer in the first place!
So make the most of it, go out for a team or a hobby that you are comfortable doing and can contribute. Shake some hands, ask for some pointers, and just be you. All of these will help you make a friend and create a social group.
Any thoughts on other places to meet some guys? Share you ideas
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