Making friends at Suffolk University

Suffolk University is a downtown Boston school with a strong focus on law, business, and the arts. The campus is woven into Beacon Hill and the downtown area, and many students are local or commute. The social life is not as campus-centered as a residential school, but the city location means you can build a social life in Boston itself. ## Start with your program cohort The strongest friendships at Suffolk often form within academic programs. Your first-year seminar, your major classes, and your study groups are the natural starting points. Introduce yourself to classmates and suggest forming study groups. Many students are balancing work and school, so study groups are both practical and social. ## Use the campus buildings as anchors The Sawyer Building, the Sargent Building, and the Modern Theatre are the main campus hubs. The student center, library, and café spaces are where people linger between classes. If you have a break, stay on campus instead of leaving. Familiarity leads to conversation. ## Join professional and arts organizations Suffolk has strong professional societies, law associations, business clubs, and arts organizations. These are useful for networking and can lead to friendships. The theatre and arts programs also have active student communities. Find one organization that aligns with your interests and attend regularly. ## Explore Beacon Hill and downtown Suffolk's location is unbeatable. Beacon Hill, Boston Common, the Public Garden, Faneuil Hall, and the North End are all within walking distance. A weekly study session at a café on Beacon Hill, a walk through the Common, or a dinner in the North End can become a social routine. ## Your first month plan - **Week 1:** Meet one person in each class and exchange contact info. - **Week 2:** Find a regular study spot in a campus building and explore one nearby neighborhood. - **Week 3:** Attend one student organization meeting or campus event. - **Week 4:** Plan a small group activity in downtown Boston: a meal, a walk, or a cultural event. ## Common questions - **Is Suffolk a commuter school?** Many students commute, but there is also a residential community. The social life blends campus and city. - **What is the best way to meet law students?** Law school has its own organizations, journals, and moot court teams. Study groups are also essential. - **What if I work while studying?** Many students do. Look for lunch-hour events, weekend activities, and study groups that fit your schedule. - **How do I meet people outside my major?** Campus-wide events, student government, and the arts programs bring people together. - **What is the best neighborhood to hang out near campus?** Beacon Hill, the North End, and downtown Boston are the closest and most popular.