By Kelly Leslie, Student at San Francisco State University

Is your college BFF transforming from friend to frenemy as the year goes on?

Developing close friendships in college can be hard, especially after leaving lifelong relationships from home behind.

What happens when your friendship causes more tension than fun? Take it from someone who has been there before … It’s not worth your time or energy.

First impressions are important, but they don’t always reveal the truth. Your friendships will be tested throughout the year and you may realize that some of your friends are not who you thought they were. Keep an open mind and remember it’s OK to step away from a friendship that isn’t working out.

Friendships that cause more tension than fun are stressful, and the stress from your social life can hurt your performance in school. It can also keep you from meeting better friends.

Remember that it is not the end of the world if you have to lose a friendship, because there is a whole school filled with potential friends.

If you are having trouble meeting new people and the friend who is causing tension in your life is the only person you have to spend time with, try becoming involved on campus. Join a club that interests you or go out for a sorority. You may feel out of your comfort zone at first, but you’ll be a much happier person in the long run. 

Image: anankkml / FreeDigitalPhotos.net