Imagine We Could Be A Kid Again Through Meeting New People

Do you remember what it felt like to be a kid? Curious, fearless, and wanting to talk to every new person. Back then making friends was so easy and stress free, you could just walk up to someone at lunch or recess and ask “Want to Play?”. Somewhere along the way of growing up things got more complicated and meeting new people came with more expectations and responsibilities. 

Why Meeting New People Matters

Stepping out of your comfort zone is important to: 

• Bring fresh new perspectives - the world looks different from someone else’s eyes. 

• Bring creative energy - strong collaboration and ideation starts with simple conversations. 

• Bring confidence in change - working together creates stronger ideas than alone. 

• Bring new adventures - every person brings a new story, hobby, or perspective that can change the way you see the world.

• Develop personal growth- learn new skills, understand your true capabilities, and discover your passions by engaging with unfamiliar situations.

That's why meeting new people isn’t just about networking, rather it’s about the playful curiosity of when you once had and carrying it into your everyday life. 

Relearning How to Play 

With new faces, new personalities, new beliefs, and all the other changes that come with the college experience, the simplicity of being a kid comes with many more strings attached than it used to. Think back to the playground days in elementary school. You didn’t need an excuse, a pre-planned event, or an icebreaker to talk to someone new, you simply walked up to a classmate and asked, “Wanna play?” and just like that you had an afternoon full of laughter and a new friend. Fast forward to college, and that simple invitation feels nearly impossible to replicate. Somewhere along the way, the idea of “play” shifted into something we overthink and attach social pressure to. But what if we allowed ourselves to relearn how to play? To be vulnerable and open with one another like we used to so easily do? College is one of the few times in life when you’re surrounded by thousands of people your age who are also looking for connection. Relearning how to play doesn’t have to mean literally running around on a playground, but rather the willingness to be open, silly, and curious again.  

Our Call to Action 

Instead of just doing your elevator pitch to every new person and connecting with them on LinkedIn, focus on learning from them and gaining a new perspective. The first step could be starting a conversation with just your curiosity you had as a kid on the playground without overthinking, and without hesitation. Then try to ask questions, share a laugh, or try something new together. As a kid it was never about making as many friends as you can, because now the goal isn’t just to expand your connection, but to rediscover that sense of playfulness, openness, and making genuine connections. Overall, by taking these action steps you will not only grow within but also create lasting and meaningful relationships that shape the way you will see the world.