Building Virtual Friendships

One of the biggest losses for me over the course of quarantine has been my social life. There were so many people who I would see every day at school, and I had a lot of friends. However, when we weren’t able to go to school anymore, I lost contact with a lot of them and only really remained in touch with my best friends. I started to feel lonely and wished that I could make new friends. Finding ways to be social and meet people while following all COVID guidelines was difficult—but it was possible! 

I know it can be really daunting to interact with people over Zoom, especially when most of your classmates don’t turn on their cameras. I think it’s easier if you search their name on a social media platform (Instagram tends to yield the best results) and follow them. Then, if you have trouble with an assignment, you can message them and ask them for help and eventually have other conversations. After talking with somebody online a bit, you can start to feel like you know them and talk to them during your online classes. 

Another way is to join some virtual school clubs. They’re more casual than classes and encourage frequent open discussions. I have actually met a few people over the last few months through my club. Knowing that everyone there has a similar interest—sports, movies, books, whatever—gives you something to talk about immediately and a foundation to build friendships.

The final recommendation I have is to actually participate in your breakout Zooms during online classes. I am definitely guilty of being intimidated and staying silent throughout the duration of a breakout room, but I have found that actively engaging makes a world of a difference. Plus, teachers usually aren’t part of them, so you can be more relaxed as you discuss your lesson topics. 

I’d love to go into school again soon because I miss being in such a social environment. However, we can still make the best out of the current situation and have friendships virtually. It might be challenging, but if we put in the effort, it can be just as rewarding as seeing someone face-to-face. I hope that everyone is doing their best to stay safe during these difficult times and is considering implementing these ideas into their own online school experience!