Look, by now, we all know the coronavirus pandemic really, really sucks.

Since last March, it’s hindered the social aspects of college life and removed any ounce of spontaneity that might’ve been left over.

Making new friends is always great, but the natural social environment of college allows for more than just friendships to blossom. Meeting new people from all different backgrounds gives students new views of the world around them and allows for lots of personal and professional growth.

Being social in college also allows for networking opportunities after graduation and may just lead to an internship or job opportunity down the road, simply because the employer used to live in East Halls when you did.

We’re still not out of the pandemic woods quite yet, so these aforementioned social opportunities seem far off. If you’re wondering how you can make the most of your college years during the pandemic, we’ve got you covered.

Get Involved In Your Major

This may seem a bit obvious at first, but there is more to this than just meeting new people. First off, there is the simple reasoning of meeting like-minded individuals with whom you already have something in common.

Getting involved in clubs that are associated with your major helps with not only making new friends, but also having hands-on experiences with your future career path.

It’s also a great way to learn about yourself and if this is really the career choice for you.

Take me, for example. I’m a broadcast journalism major, and I knew I liked the idea of it coming into college. Getting involved with the PSN News and Penn State Sports Night show (Editor’s Note: Hey, don’t forget about Onward State!) has cemented my career choice. I’ve made some great friends in my major and have had plenty of networking opportunities already.

Get An On-Campus Or Off-Campus Job

College students are broke, and that’s just the truth. What better way to kill two birds with one stone than getting a job?

As campus begins to open back up, there are going to be plenty of opportunities advertised on-campus and downtown.

Penn State posts job opportunities ranging from law enforcement to the IT desk. You can click here for some quick links to start your on-campus job search. There are also countless shops, stores, and restaurants in the State College area that are currently hiring, as many former employees may not have returned this year.

Not only will your bank account look better, but you’ll meet many other students who work at these establishments. Plus, this is a great way to interact with people in-person without feeling guilty for doing so.

Join A GroupMe Or Study Group For Your Classes

Now, more than ever, GroupMe is available for virtually every class offered at Penn State. Join a chat, participate in conversations, and who knows what kinds of new people you’ll meet.

Additionally, you can join a study group in one of your classes to improve your academic and social life. You’ll meet fellow classmates, impress your parents, and get one step closer to securing an A in physics.

Get Involved In A ‘Fun’ Club

There are a lot of clubs offered at Penn State. There are clubs for comics, video games, playing cards, and even the “Flannel and Flapjack Club,” where you wear flannels and eat pancakes.

There are also plenty of THON orgs for folks who want to get involved with philanthropy.

Clubs are a great way to unwind, find a new hobby, or meet people you wouldn’t have the chance to in any other capacity.

While we’re at it…a little birdy told me that Onward State is looking for new people to hire! If you love Penn State and stan the Oxford comma, you might just find your people through this very blog.

Put A Note On Your Door

This one is admittedly a Hail Mary, but it’s always an option.

If you’re living in an apartment, you may have seen some people posting notes on their doors telling people to knock or to add them on social media.

Due to the fact that we’re in a pandemic, we’d recommend adding some neighbors on Snapchat. Perhaps your future best friend is just two doors down.