Speed Friending: New Faces, New Companions

Tomorrow, on September 20, 2024, the Psychology Honor Society (PHS) will host its annual Speed Friending event in the gymnasium during all non-lunch periods. This event, now in its ninth year at Ferguson, offers students a unique opportunity to build friendships and strengthen the bonds within our school community.

The goal of Speed Friending is to create an inclusive atmosphere where students can interact with peers they may not typically encounter.

“We are excited to see students from all walks of life come together,” shared Hugo Sierra, the Psychology teacher and head of PHS. “We’ll have about 7 or 8 classes per period, seated around the basketball court, with students rotating seats every 2 or 3 minutes. It’s an occasion for everyone to meet new faces and connect on a deeper level.”

This event also aligns with the Start with Hello campaign, a national initiative created by the non-profit Sandy Hook Promise. The campaign encourages schools to promote inclusion and prevent social isolation. By facilitating conversations between students, Speed Friending aims to foster a sense of belonging, which is critical to creating a safer, more inviting school environment.

 “Start with Hello was started after the tragedy at Sandy Hook.” Damien Leon, a sophomore member of PHS, reflects. “Its purpose is to create more inclusive spaces, and Speed Friending helps students who might feel isolated find connections and support.”

This year’s event underscores the importance of reaching out to those who may feel left out. The focus is not only on making new friends but also on nurturing a sense of togetherness that strengthens our school’s culture. By encouraging participation, students take the time to step outside of their comfort zones and engage with their peers in a positive, welcoming environment.

“For our speed friending event, we encourage socialization and hope to see many new friendships emerge!” Vice President, Britney Benitez, adds

While the event is fun and social in nature, its underlying purpose is profound. Connecting with others is crucial in promoting mental health and well-being, and initiatives like Speed Friending offer a valuable platform for building those meaningful connections.

As we gather for this event tomorrow, it’s a reminder that each interaction holds the potential to spark lasting friendships and create a more inclusive school. Let’s take this chance to make a difference in someone’s day and contribute to a supportive and connected climate.