Do you think age plays a role in friendships during college?
When I was 16, I attended my first class at a university, and since then, I’ve noticed a growing number of younger students entering college—many as early as 14, 15, or 16 years old. I’ve even seen local students graduate with associate’s and bachelor’s degrees by age 18. Do you believe these younger students will have difficulty making friends, or might they lose friends when others realize they are younger?
EDIT: I’m surprised by the number of people who weren’t aware of this younger student demographic. Thank you to everyone who is or has been a younger student for sharing your experiences! I appreciate the respectful and insightful discussion this has sparked. I hope this conversation raises awareness about the increasing number of younger students who are freshmen (ages 15-16), junior transfers (17-18), and graduate students (18-20). Try looking up the youngest graduate at (your university here), and you might be amazed!
I think age can definitely play a role in friendships during college, but it really depends on the individuals involved. Younger students might face some challenges, like feeling out of place or not fully connecting with older peers who are navigating different life experiences. However, many friendships are built on shared interests and mutual respect, so it’s entirely possible for younger students to find their niche and bond with others, regardless of age.
It’s great to see that younger students are achieving so much academically at a young age, and I think that just adds to the diversity of the college experience. It could be an opportunity for older students to mentor younger ones, or for everyone to learn from each other’s perspectives. The key is to foster an inclusive environment where friendships can flourish, regardless of age.
I’m glad this post has sparked such awareness and conversation around this topic! It’s important for all students to feel like they belong and have the chance to connect with others.