Social wellness — the ability to build meaningful relationships and feel a genuine sense of belonging — is one of the key dimensions of overall wellbeing. At UNC-Chapel Hill, investing in your social wellness can enrich your college experience, support your academic performance, and contribute to your long-term health.
Here are some steps to help build your community on campus:
1. Explore what campus has to offer
One of the most effective ways to meet people is to get out and try things. UNC has a vibrant campus life with something for nearly every interest. Attend a student organization event, check out the Morrison Art Studio, try a sports club, or catch a film screening. Follow your curiosity — and don’t worry too much about whether something is “your thing” before you give it a shot.
Ways to find events and activities:
- Attend FallFest.
- Engage in Weeks of Welcome events.
- Explore Heel Life.
- Say “yes” to invitations whenever you can.
- Ask fellow students and campus employees about activities they recommend.
2. Tune in to what feels right
Social wellness looks different for everyone. After exploring some activities, take stock of your experience. What energized you? What felt like a poor fit? Using those insights to guide future choices helps you build a social life that genuinely supports your wellbeing — not just one that fills your schedule.
3. Build on what works
Once you find activities and people that resonate, nurture those connections. Introduce yourself, engage with organizers and fellow participants, and look for ways to contribute and grow within the group. Relationships tend to deepen through repeated, meaningful contact over time.
Want support building social wellness?
Meet with a Wellness Coach to discuss your goals and strategies to help you reach them.