Whether you’re a first-year or transfer student, arriving at UIS as a self-proclaimed introvert can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. As one of our newest Prairie Stars, you’ll be navigating new surroundings and routines while protecting your social battery. But getting involved on campus doesn’t have to mean plunging into big crowds or chatting with everyone you meet. You can find ways to connect that match your personality, interests and pace.
Explore our RSOs with Purpose
At UIS, you’ll find more than 70 registered student organizations (RSOs), from academic clubs to creative communities. If you’re an introvert, you might gravitate toward groups with a clear structure—like the Student Government Association or Student Activities Committee—where meetings, events and projects revolve around shared goals. This built-in focus creates natural conversation starters and can ease the social pressure that comes with more unstructured groups, where open mingling is common before events. UISConnection is your go-to resource for exploring every RSO and finding the right fit before joining in person.
Try an Involvement Consultation
If attending the Involvement Expo or Welcome Week events feel too overwhelming, UIS Student Life offers Involvement Consultations. Consultations are quick, 10–30 minute appointments where you can learn about your interests, schedule and comfort level. From there, staff can connect you with organizations, activities and experiences that align with your skills, passions and curiosities. When you meet with Student Life, keep an open mind and share your current hobbies.
Use Your Classes and Living Learning Communities to Your Advantage
The shift to college courses can be a pleasant surprise for introverts. Many UIS classes are small, discussion-based and welcoming of diverse perspectives. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, clarify assignments or even start a group chat for collaborative projects—study groups often form naturally and can double as a social space.
Another great option is joining a Living Learning Community (LLC), where you live and learn with peers who share similar academic interests or goals. Located in designated residence hall areas, LLCs blend classroom learning with co-curricular activities and social events tailored to the community’s focus. Most include shared courses, making it easier to connect, collaborate and build friendships while staying motivated in a supportive environment.
Attend Low-Pressure Events Solo or with a Friend
Throughout the fall and spring, UIS offers a wide range of events— Welcome Week, Homecoming, Late Nite Stars, Student Organization Workshops, and more. Try attending one early in the semester to meet people beyond your living space and classes. You can go by yourself or ask your roommate or a classmate to join you. If you’re comfortable, start a conversation with someone who seems quieter, and ask about what the group offers and upcoming events.
Get Involved through Activities
At UIS, you don’t have to be the most outgoing person to get involved. Activity-based opportunities make it easy to connect with others while doing something you enjoy. Interested in improving your well-being, tapping into your artistic side, developing a green thumb or gaming? Check out:
By attending the same activities regularly, you’ll start recognizing familiar faces—without feeling pressured to instantly socialize. Sometimes, a simple “hey” and brief chat can be the first step toward a lasting friendship.
Set Achievable Goals
If you are on the introverted side, it’s important to remember that you don’t need to jump in all at once. Start small by:
- Attending just one or a handful of meetings a semester to learn about an organization or activity on campus.
- Trying an activity alone or with a few friends.
- Committing to one activity a week that you genuinely enjoy.
These small steps can build your confidence, spark new interests and help you meet people at your own pace.
Lean into Our Supportive Campus Environment
Thanks to UIS’ small class sizes, approachable faculty and hands-on learning, you don’t need to be extroverted to feel part of the community. Our faculty and staff come from their own diverse backgrounds and perspectives. This makes them able to understand each student’s path to success. At UIS, we pride ourselves on working with all students to tailor programs, events and activities that make everyone feel welcome.
It's Your Time to Shine
As a student new to UIS, getting involved doesn’t have to be challenging or uncomfortable. Every small step you take counts toward becoming more involved! Whether you end the semester with a small circle of like-minded friends or simply feel like you know a little more about life at UIS, you’ll have grown. Each student’s involvement looks different, and that’s completely okay. Hopefully, this guide is a start toward creating your own journey!