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Remember that time you and your high school bestie swore you’d be friends forever? Then college hit, and suddenly you’re worlds apart. One minute you’re sharing fufu in Lagos, the next you’re figuring out how to explain jollof rice to your American roommate
It’s 2 AM, and you’re knee-deep in biochemistry notes when your phone pings. It’s a meme from your high school gang’s WhatsApp group.
Suddenly, you’re transported back to those carefree days of sneaking out for suya after curfew. That’s the power of maintaining high school friendships in college. 
Understanding the Transition
College life hits different, doesn’t it? One day you’re wearing a perfectly ironed uniform, the next you’re rocking pajamas to an 8 AM lecture.
The shift from high school to college is like moving from your mama’s jollof to cafeteria food – it takes some getting used to.
In high school, you saw your friends every day. You shared classes, lunch breaks, and probably got into trouble together. College flips the script.
Suddenly, you’re juggling new friends, demanding classes, and maybe even a part-time job. Your high school crew? They’re scattered across different time zones, dealing with their own college chaos.
But here’s the thing: adapting to your new environment doesn’t mean abandoning your old connections. Think of it like learning to cook a new dish while still perfecting your egusi soup recipe. It’s about growth, not replacement.
Effective Communication Strategies
Remember when passing notes in class was your main form of communication? Well, welcome to the digital age, my friend. Technology is your new best friend when it comes to maintaining high school friendships.
Set up regular video calls. It’s not the same as sharing plantain chips in person, but seeing your friend’s face light up when you crack an inside joke? Priceless.
Schedule these calls like you would any other important appointment. Sunday evening catch-ups can become your new tradition.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned phone call. Sometimes, hearing your friend’s voice is all you need to feel connected. Plus, it’s perfect for those moments when you’re walking to class or doing laundry.
Social media is your secret weapon. Create a private Instagram group where you share snippets of your daily lives.
It’s like a digital photo album of your college adventures. Just remember, a like is nice, but a comment? That’s where the real connection happens.
Making Time for Each Other
Let’s be real: college life is busy. Between exams, social events, and trying to figure out how to do your own laundry, time becomes a precious commodity. But maintaining high school friendships? That’s worth making time for.
When semester breaks roll around, prioritize meetups. Plan a reunion in your hometown. Share a meal at your favorite local spot. Catch up on all the gossip and inside jokes you’ve missed. These face-to-face moments are gold.
Get creative with joint activities. Can’t meet in person? No problem. Host a virtual movie night. Pick a Nollywood classic, sync up your screens, and chat throughout. It’s almost like being back in your living room at home.
Balance is key. Your academic responsibilities are important, but so are your friendships. Treat catching up with your high school friends like another important task. Schedule it. Prioritize it. Make it happen.
Conclusion: How to Maintain High School Friendships in College
Maintaining high school friendships in college isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it.
These are the people who knew you before you became a “sophisticated” college student. They’re your link to home, your support system, your reminder of where you came from.
So pick up that phone. Send that text. Schedule that video call. Your high school friends are just a click away.
After all, who else is going to appreciate your stories about trying to explain the concept of “African time” to your punctual American professors?
Remember, distance is just a number. With a little effort and a lot of love, your high school friendships can thrive, no matter where college takes you. Now go forth and conquer college, knowing your day one squad has your back!
READ: Friendship First Aid: How to Mend a Broken Bond
Just as you would tend to a physical wound, you need to approach a broken friendship with care, understanding, and patience. In this article, we’ll explore the steps you can take to mend a broken friendship.
