University is an exciting experience where you get to study something you’re passionate about, explore a new city or even country, and meet people from all around the world. But it can also be a lonely time when you’re moving to a place where you don’t know anyone. You have to go through the process of making new friends all over again.
Luckily, everyone else is in the same boat when they come to uni. Everyone wants to make new friends and settle into their new student life. It’s only natural to feel nervous and shy, but don’t let that stop you from getting out there and making new friends. Here are our tips for making new friends when you come to university.
1. Join Societies
Pretty much every university in the UK has a whole host of clubs and societies to suit all hobbies and interests. There’s no better way to meet people with similar interests to you, as you already have one thing in common to talk about!
Make sure to join as many as you can when you first get to uni and make an effort to talk to the people there. Not only are these clubs a great thing to add to your CV, bt it’s a sure way to find people you have things in common with. Before you know it you’ll be heading out for drinks after meetings and start forming new friendships.
2. Use the Power of Social Media
Social media is a great way to get to know people at uni before you even meet them! When you find out which university you’re going to and which student accommodation you’ll live in, use social media to find others who are going there. There are always Facebook groups for universities and student halls so it shouldn’t be hard to find people you’ll be living and studying with.
Reach out to these people and use social media to get to know them better. Chatting online can be much easier than face to face and by the time you do meet, you’ve already broken the ice!
3. Go to Fresher’s Events
In universities in the UK, we have what’s called ‘Fresher’s Week’. This is the first week (sometimes two weeks) of the semester where there are events happening each day and night for students to attend. It’s a way to get to know the university and city better as well as getting to meet other students.
If nights out at bars and clubs aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Most Fresher’s Weeks also have daytime events such as city guides and day trips where you can meet people too. The most important thing is to get out there and do as much as possible in your first few weeks at university. The single worst thing you can do is sit in your room and not do anything, since this won’t help you make any friends. There’s a whole world out there, so go and explore it!
4. Be a Good Flatmate
The first group of students you’ll meet when you get to your student accommodation is your flatmates. It’s super important for you all to make an effort to be considerate flatmates, otherwise it can lead to an unpleasant living situation.
Do your bit to keep the flat clean and tidy. Don’t make too much noise late at night or early in the morning. Treat your flatmates with courtesy and respect.
Make an effort to talk to your flatmates and invite them to do things with you. Bake some sweet treats or even a meal is a lovely gesture and is a great way to get to know them all better. Even if you don’t all become best friends in the long run, a healthy relationship with your flatmates goes a very long way.
5. Be a Nice Person
It seems simple, but it’s a point that’s worth reiterating. Being a nice person with an open mind and non-judgemental attitude goes such a long way. If someone needs to borrow something small or needs help with something, try to help them out if you can. Don’t judge people or be rude, that won’t make you any new friends.
Be considerate with other people and try to be as nice as you can to the people around you. Don’t steal flatmates food or drinks, tidy up after yourself, and give a compliment every now and then. Oh, and don’t forget to stick the kettle on!
You’ll Be On Your Way to Making New Friends at University in No Time
Coming to university for the first time can be nerve wracking, and the thought of making an entirely new group of friends can be scary. But it’s not hard to find people you have things in common with and before long, you’ll have a solid group of friends you’ll be in touch with for life!
Need to sort out student accommodation before you come to study? Check out our list of student halls across the UK to find the right place for you.
