Before the DCP I felt like I was terrible at making friends. I was so nervous to talk to people and felt uncomfortable doing things with those outside my friend group
And then I moved across the country to a place where I knew no one and no one knew me.
I was terrified.
But it turns out that it was just what I needed. There is something so amazing about having the opportunity to start over. To move to a place where you get to define who you are. Not your past self or actions. Not what people know about your family or your friends. Just you- current, beautiful you! Isn't that wonderful?
I made some of my best friends ever on the DCP and came away with a million memories. What was my secret? Keep reading and I'll let you know!
1. Connect with People Beforehand
As soon as I got my acceptance (and even before!) I joined a ton of Facebook groups and chats. Though these weren't always the best environment to spend time in, I was able to us it to my advantage! In the Facebook search bar I would type in things that I feel like define me: my religion, the school I go to, my home state, etc. and was able to find a lot of people that shared these things. I would then ask them if they wanted to be added to a chat. By the time I started the DCP, our group chat was maxed out on Instagram.
This provided a great resource for me as I could put at anytime in the chat, "Hey, headed to Magic Kingdom, anyone want to come?" And instantly I'd have a few people that would be down. There are so many people I can honestly call my friends because of all our park days, mini golf trips, brunches, rides to church, pool parties, meet ups, and more. It was the greatest blessing in my life.
2. Become friends with your Coworkers
You spend at least 50% of your waking hours (or 75% during Spring Break iykyk) with your coworkers so might as well get close to them! I became particularly close to those I trained with and we made so many great memories together in and out of work. We shared many laughs, sung along to Enchantment EVERY night, and were never short on jokes, hugs, or encouragement. I was truly blessed with some of the greatest coworkers ever.
3. Hang Out with your Roommates
Okay, I get it- not everyone clicks with their roommates! But you should definitely go in with an open mind and get to know them. My roommate can only be described in one word- Incredible. We did so much together- beach days, evenings at EPCOT, hotel staycations, dance parties, movie nights, and more. We talked together about anything and everything and it was amazing. Making an effort to get to know your roommates will make ALL the difference!
4. Be Kind
Just be kind! Anywhere and everywhere. I met a ton of people at church and in random places all over Flamingo, and we only connected because we were genuinely kind to each other. You never know who is going to be your next bestie, so be kind to everyone and you won't be disappointed. :)
As always, I'd love to connect with you! Feel free to chat with me via my insta @goldenbrowniebeth!
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