NOW TAKE A STEP AT YOUR OWN PACE Using the priorities you established in the Social Connections Categories Inventory, explore the recommended steps, sources, and sites on the next page. Remember to use your existing resources and supports for help along the way. High school, grade school, and neighborhood friends Search and reach out via social media (e.g. follow, friend, or private message) Email, phone, or text, “It’s been a while...how are you?” Contact your high school alumni board Reach out to your high school guidance counselor for info/ideas College friends Watch this video, a reminder you’re not alone in finding and connecting with your peers Join the NITEO Activities a range of free workshops, hangouts, workouts, & outings Reach out via email, phone, text or social media If it’s available, connect in person at a campus-based or campus-adjacent location Invite a time to meet virtually (e.g. Zoom brunch) Neighbors Explore Meetup to connect with local people with similar interests and goals Search local news sources for information about local gatherings (e.g. concerts, events) Join or start a local “walk & talk” with a neighbor(s) Host a coffee gathering, movie viewing, or game night Spiritual or tribal leader or community members: Inquire about campus-based and local resources and affinity groups that align with your spiritual or tribal values Connect with your community leader or members of your community at an in-person service, ceremony, or meeting Reach out via phone or email Family or family friends Suggest a lunch picnic, outing, or dinner Express interest in someone’s work, and ask to learn more or shadow Host a game or trivia event (in person or virtually) New friends Consider enrolling in one of the many College Mental Health Activities, like the Healthy Relationships class at Boston University, to meet people and build skills for maintaining relationships with peers, friends, and more Download and create a Bumble BFF profile to meet people with shared values and interests Check out NAMI Peer-to-Peer, an experiential program for people living with a mental illness who are interested in establishing and maintaining their wellness and recovery Join a Skip the Small Talk event to practice conversing & making meaningful connections con ti n u e d on next pa ge > Your Leave of Absence from College Guide: Taking a Leave at your own PACE • 17