how to make friends and NOT go to bars

[Supergrrl7]

One more thing: You should start adding everyone you meet to your facebook page. THen, make a point of commenting occasionally on things they post. This will remind them who you are and give you a chance to interact with them in between opportunities to see them in person.

Keep your eyes open for the "connectors"--the people who know LOTS of people and are very social extroverts. If you can buddy up to one of those people, it is much easier to ease your way into a lot of social activities. People who love to socialize generally seem happy to add new people to activities they are doing. (Unlike introverts like me who really like a very small circle of good friends and hate being forced to socialize with strangers. These extroverts seem to really really like it. It is so puzzling!) If you find yourself the right connector, things might just fall into place very easily.

Once you get a good number of acquaintances built up (and tag them so you can post only to these people), don't be afraid to invite people out or even put out a cattle call on FB saying "I am going to go to XYZ but I am pretty new in town so I am going alone. Would anyone like to join me?" You could also try saying "I am going to XYZ, will anyone else be there?" for a little less pressure on the hang out. Then, make a point of finding those people at the event and being friendly with them.

[jehane]

Hi, I've been lurking here for about a month but this is my first post. I'm probably moving to Columbus as an OSU grad student in May (doing research over the summer). I'll be in a similar situation, and I know how you feel - I don't drink so you can imagine how much fun bar-hopping is for me. I've moved around a lot with my career but I find that joining clubs (sports, hobbies, anything really) is a good way to meet people, and you'll automatically have something in common. If you don't mind hanging out with someone who is 35 I like museums and art galleries.

[ColdAilment]

Originally Posted by jehane

Hi, I've been lurking here for about a month but this is my first post. I'm probably moving to Columbus as an OSU grad student in May (doing research over the summer). I'll be in a similar situation, and I know how you feel - I don't drink so you can imagine how much fun bar-hopping is for me. I've moved around a lot with my career but I find that joining clubs (sports, hobbies, anything really) is a good way to meet people, and you'll automatically have something in common. If you don't mind hanging out with someone who is 35 I like museums and art galleries.

LOL!