There is a level of risk involved here, as well as the possibility of rejection. However, rejection is often not due to dislike, but for myriad of other reasons. Perhaps the other person already has an established group of friends and does not have the time for new friendships, or maybe you have nothing in common. The environment has to be right in order for new friendships to form. For instance, many people have difficulties in bar situations because there is loud music and a lot of talking going on, both of which interfere with conversation.
Many people believe that drinking alcohol makes it easier to meet people.
In fact, alcohol impairs your judgment and can cause damage to relationships. This is not to say that you cannot form friendships with people you meet in a bar, but people generally have better luck in quieter, less crowded atmospheres. Another great way to meet people is to identify and seek out a group of people who are similar to yourself. You might want to consider joining one of the more than 150 clubs on campus. The chances are high that there will be much to talk about and to build on.