10 Proven Ways to Make Friends in a New City as a Summer Intern

Moving to a new city for a summer internship can be both exciting and daunting. On one hand, you're stepping into an incredible opportunity to jumpstart your career; on the other, you're entering an unfamiliar environment without your usual support network. Making new friends in this new setting will enhance your summer experience and leave you with lasting memories, turning a summer of work into an unforgettable adventure. Here are some proven ways to build connections and friendships during your internship.

1. Join Intern and Young Professional Groups

Major metropolitan cities with many internship programs also have networks or groups specifically for interns and young professionals. These groups often organize social events, networking opportunities, and other activities that make meeting peers in a similar situation easier. Look for these groups on platforms like Meetup, LinkedIn, Chamber of Commerce, nationally recognized professional organizations in your industry, or even through your internship company’s HR department. Also, check for alum groups from your home campus and the city to which you are relocating.

2. Attend Local Events and Participate in Social Activities

Take advantage of the local scene by attending events and meetups that interest you. Whether it's a concert, a sports game, a cultural festival, or a community class, these events are great places to meet people who share your interests. Websites like Eventbrite, Meetup, and local community boards can help you find what's happening in your new city.

3. Explore Social Media

Social media platforms are powerful tools for connecting with others. Join local Facebook groups, follow city-specific Instagram pages and hashtags, or engage with local professional communities on LinkedIn. These platforms can help you discover local hotspots, events, and groups where you can meet new people.

4. Volunteer for Local Causes You Are Passionate About

Volunteering is a fantastic way to give back to your new community and meet like-minded individuals. Look for local charities, non-profits, or community service events that need volunteers. Your company’s HR department might have connections to local volunteering opportunities as well. Not only will you make a positive impact, but you'll also meet people who are passionate about similar causes.

5. Meet Your Neighbors

Depending on where you live during your summer internship, you may have a community of similar circumstance peers all around you. For example, if you live in university housing, these campuses offer housing specifically for summer interns. This living arrangement would be the ideal setup for you to make friends in your new city. If you want to explore the universities that offer this, check out InternHousingHub.com to easily search, find, and apply to campus housing. 

6. Join a Recreational Sports Leagues

Joining a recreational sports league can be a fun and active way to meet new people. Many cities offer leagues for sports like pickleball, soccer, softball, volleyball, and more. Playing sports is inherently known for building friendships and connections with your team members. Embrace the team spirit and you’ll make friends in no time.

7. Take Advantage of Onboarding and Work Events

Many companies organize onboarding sessions, team-building activities, and social events for their interns. These events are designed to help you get to know your colleagues in a more relaxed setting. Be proactive in participating and engaging with your peers during these opportunities to build professional connections.

8. Be Open and Approachable

Your attitude plays a crucial role in making new friends. Be open, approachable, and willing to step out of your comfort zone. Simple gestures like smiling, introducing yourself, and showing genuine interest in others can go a long way. Whether it’s holding the door open for someone, helping to pick up something someone else dropped, or sparking a conversation with the person standing in front of you in a line, these are all simple ways you can meet new people through your regular daily routine. Remember, many people are in the same boat as you and are also looking to make new friends.

9. Take Up a Hobby or Join Interest-Based Clubs

Whether you’re into reading, cooking, hiking, or gaming, there’s likely a club or group in your new city that shares your interests. Joining these clubs can help you find people who enjoy the same activities, providing a natural basis for building friendships.

10. Explore and Enjoy the City

Lastly, take time to explore and enjoy your new city. Visit popular attractions, try out local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the culture. The more you engage with your new environment, the more opportunities you’ll have to meet new people and make friends. Here are a few easy ideas to start:

• When you go out to a restaurant, ask to sit at the community table and then start with small talk with the people sitting around you.
• When you are in line at a coffee shop, ask the person in front of you what their favorite drink is.
• When you are at an interest-based club meeting, ask fellow attendees what sparked their passion for the activity.

Making friends in a new city as a summer intern might seem challenging at first, but with a proactive approach and an open mind, you can build meaningful connections. Remember, friendships often form when you least expect them, so put yourself out there, engage in activities you enjoy, and be open to new experiences. Your summer internship can be more than just a career milestone; it can be a time of personal growth and unforgettable memories.