HEY POST GRADS! HERE ARE FIVE GREAT WAYS TO CLICK ON CAMPUS!
Let’s say you have been accepted as a Post Grad basketball player and student at a boarding school. Congratulations!
But…what is this experience going to be like, socially? You will probably not know a soul to start and you’re there for just one year.
Here are five tips that can help you have a full, rewarding social experience on campus:
- GET CONNECTED AT THE START OF THE FALL TERM
First and foremost, begin your social campaign the moment you arrive on campus, do not delay. You need to meet new people, introduce yourself and make some friends even before you begin your classes and regular workout schedules. Look for “guides” – upbeat outgoing students who can lead you to their friend groups.
The trick is to get social at the start of the year. Most boarding schools schedule get-acquainted events early in the fall term – later on, as the homework piles up, not so much. Plus, the weather is on your side in September and October – more chances for outdoor socializing.
Whatever you do, resist any urge to hide out in your dorm room or the library or on the weight room. Get out and hang out right away!
- SIGN UP FOR A SHOW
Team bonding is one surefire way to make connections but you need to go wide. Why not try out for the theatre club? Theatre is a whole different vibe than sports – but both actors and athletes understand teamwork and team spirit.
Most schools put on a show during the fall term and wannabe actors are always in demand. No experience necessary and as a PG athlete, your physical fitness and maturity make you a real candidate for acting roles. Even if you are cast in a tiny role, take it – the point is to meet new and different friends. Plus, you never know, you might find you like acting.
If you just do not want to perform, sign up for the tech crew. Techies are highly valued and get invited to the cast parties just like the actors are.
Another way to go is join a student club that performs together.
- VOLUNTEER IN YOUR DORM
Your dormmates are yet another new community. You can quickly connect if you sign up to help out with dorm parties and other social events. (If you want instant god-like status, offer to spring for pizza, nachos or sushi for a Saturday night dorm feed).
- NETWORK WITH SCHOOL LEADERS
Every boarding school has its traditions. Take the effort to learn what opportunities you might have by meeting with the adults on campus.
There will be faculty in residence overseeing your dorm – introduce yourself. You will be assigned an academic advisor – meet with them right away. Many schools have weekly or biweekly afternoon coffee events where PGs and seniors can meet with the Head of School and other senior administrators.
These adults can help steer you towards opportunities – people, clubs and programs – which might not be apparent to the general student population.
- SEEK OUT HONOR SOCIETIES
Most schools have student societies that provide service to the school or the surrounding communities. The faculty or administration select these student elites who are favored with scholarships, college admissions recommendations and other benefits. The adult leaders you will be meeting (see Suggestion #4) can help you gain entry to these service and honor organizations.
Meeting different campus groups early in your PG year can quickly establish your prep school social life and enhance your campus fun factor. Go for it!
Ronald Mangravite is the author of the best-selling American Prep: The Insider’s Guide to U.S. Boarding Schools.
Copyright 2021 Ronald Mangravite and Coral Gate Media LLC
