One of the hardest parts of graduating high school is realizing that friendships change—and that’s normal. You’ve probably grown close to people over the last four years, and it’s tough to think about moving away or drifting apart. But here’s the truth: just because a friendship changes doesn’t mean it failed.
College brings new schedules, new cities, and new people. It’s natural for your circle to shift. You might stay in touch with a few close friends, but most likely, you’ll start building new connections in your new environment. That’s not something to fear—it’s something to embrace.
The best way to navigate this change is to be intentional. Don’t wait for people to find you. Take the first step. Introduce yourself. Join a group. Say yes to small invitations. The friends you’ll grow closest to might not be the ones you expect—but that’s the beauty of starting fresh.
And if you feel lonely in the beginning? That’s okay, too. Everyone else is trying to figure it out just like you. You’re not behind or alone—you’re just in transition.
Another truth? Friendships take effort. Some of your best college relationships will grow because you were consistent—because you kept showing up, kept texting, kept caring. Be patient, and remember that meaningful connections take time.
At the same time, don’t carry guilt over friendships that fade. People grow in different directions, and that’s a natural part of life. You can still be grateful for what those friendships gave you, even if they don’t last forever.
The friendships you form in college might surprise you with their depth and impact. Be open to new people. Be kind to yourself in the in-between. And trust that, in time, the right community will come.
