Starting out in college can feel like you’re beginning a whole new life on a new planet – and you know it will be full of learning curves as well as adventure. While it’s an exciting time, exploring a new campus and meeting new people, there’s a bittersweetness to it, too. You’re leaving behind friends, especially your best friend forever (BFF)! But don’t worry, the distance doesn’t have to diminish your friendship. Here are six foolproof ways to keep that connection strong and more special than ever, no matter the distance.
Establish a Communication Cadence
One of the foundational steps to maintaining any long-distance friendship is establishing how and when you’ll communicate. Whether it’s a daily text, weekly video calls, or bi-monthly email updates, find what works best for both of you. The key is consistency and respect for each other’s schedules. Remember, college life is a whirlwind of deadlines and new experiences. By setting a regular communication schedule, you ensure that no matter how hectic life gets, there’s always time carved out for catching up. This rhythm helps preserve the familiarity and intimacy that characterize BFF relationships.
Share Experiences, Even When Apart
While you’re discovering your new college life, don’t forget to involve your BFF in your daily experiences and adventures. Sharing stories from campus, building new friendships, and even having challenging moments keep your BFF in the loop. A fun way to share experiences is to watch Netflix together online. Choose a series and schedule a time to watch an episode together each week. This activity gives you something exciting to talk about and recreates those cozy movie nights you used to enjoy. It’s about making your friend a part of your new life, not just updating them about it.
Create Shared Rituals
Creating new rituals can add a unique layer to your friendship, adapting old traditions to suit your new lifestyle. For instance, consider sending each other care packages. Imagine the delight of receiving a mini nail kit and having your nails done together over Zoom. This activity gives you both a relaxing break and a chance to chat and bond over something fun and creative. These small acts of kindness and shared rituals make each interaction special and are a testament to your enduring friendship.
Focusing on nurturing your bond through shared activities is crucial. It reminds us that friendships thrive on shared experiences and mutual efforts. While your worlds are evolving, finding new ways to connect can bring a sense of familiarity and comfort that is both refreshing and heartwarming.
Embrace the Power of Snail Mail
In an era dominated by digital communication, there’s something uniquely personal and heartfelt about receiving a handwritten letter. Embrace the charm of snail mail by sending each other postcards, letters, or even small tokens from your college towns. This old-school method of communication has a way of conveying thoughtfulness and effort that text messages or emails sometimes lack. Each letter or postcard becomes a tangible memory, a keepsake that can be cherished over the years. It’s a beautiful way to keep the friendship feeling fresh and exciting, bridging the physical distance with a personal touch.
Plan Visits and Reunions
One of the most anticipated aspects of maintaining long-distance friendships is planning visits. Whether it’s returning home during breaks or visiting each other’s campuses, these reunions can reignite the joy of your connection and create new memories together. Start a shared savings fund for travel expenses if budgeting is necessary. Planning and anticipating these get-togethers can be nearly as joyful as the actual visits, keeping both of you excited about your next adventure together. These reunions serve as important milestones in your friendship, reinforcing the bond and making every moment spent together count.
Support Each Other Unconditionally
College is a time of growth and change and can bring about challenges and uncertainties. Being a supportive friend during ups and downs is crucial. Listen actively, offer encouragement, and be there for each other, even if it’s just through a video call or a text message. Celebrate each other’s achievements and offer a shoulder to lean on when needed. This unconditional support strengthens your friendship and provides a stable, reliable foundation upon which both of you can confidently build your new lives. So, gear up for this new adventure with your BFF by your side, in spirit, if not in person, and watch as your bond grows stronger with each passing semester.
