Is it okay to have only a few close friends at a science and engineering university?
Yes. Having only a few close friends is generally fine. What matters more than the number of friends is having relationships in which you feel comfortable talking and can seek help with academic or daily-life concerns when needed. Science and engineering programs may provide opportunities to meet people through classes, experiments, research, or extracurricular activities, but students differ in how they participate and form relationships. If you feel isolated or are having difficulties, consider speaking with a faculty member or student counseling service.
Key points
- The quality of trusted relationships matters more than the number of friends.
- Classes, experiments, research, and extracurricular activities can provide opportunities to meet people.
- Faculty members or counseling services may help if you feel isolated or have academic or personal concerns.
Things to check
- The format of classes, opportunities for interaction, and available counseling services vary by university, faculty, and academic year, so check official information.