Many students come to college with an idea of where they fit in the social hierarchy: The stereotypical jocks, nerds or cheerleaders. Yet, many are unaware of what people in other cliques or groups outside their own are like. 

This stigma of staying in your own clique is entirely unjustified because it ostracizes people from forming bonds with people of differing backgrounds or beliefs. If students step outside their cliques, they can open the door to forming bonds that extend beyond shared interests.

Since grade school, students have grown up in so many ways. At college, students no longer feel the need to force themselves into uncomfortable situations or friendships to feel accepted, unlike many did in high school to fit in. 

But students are no longer teenagers, and it is only human nature to bond and form relationships with those around us. However, forming relationships is not just about meeting more like-minded individuals.

From the outside, someone might seem like a cheerleader or jock, but they can still enjoy nerdy things. A student’s choice of activities can make them feel obligated to do only that one thing, but it is important to explore different interests to see if something unexpected is enjoyable. 

First-Year Mandy Aylward participated in activities like bowling, but said she found no enjoyment in them besides being able to spend time with friends. However, Aylward decided to explore the arts as they piqued her interest.

“I had not been in choir since eighth grade, because it didn’t seem like a priority even though I liked singing,” Aylward said. “Eventually, I decided to sing a solo at the variety show, and I got back into choir, and it made me realize how much I enjoyed the activity and the people.”

Although she previously enjoyed singing, Aylward said she found a connection in choir that she not have if she had not stepped outside her comfort zone. Even though bowling allowed her to be with her friends, Aylward said it did not give her a full sense of fulfillment. 

If you feel like something is missing in your life, it might be time to take the initiative and step outside your bubble. Consider something that may bring you any amount of interest, because you could not only find a new lifelong hobby, but also people you may have never talked to.  

However, a connection is not required to try new activities. There are plenty of people who could create a strong bond if they were willing to build up courage and engage with others they may not know.

An interaction as simple as a greeting during the day or holding the door for someone, can create a bond. Not only is it simply a kind thing to do, but it is also another way to bond with people you have not already met. 

All of these ways to make connections can be so much more beneficial than any connections you may make in a clique. It is important to be well-rounded, not only because it helps you branch out in activities and relationships, but also because it allows you to experience the different opportunities that life has to offer.