Starting university marks a significant milestone in every student’s life, filled with excitement and new opportunities. However, it can also be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to making friends at uni.
As you step into this new phase of your life, building meaningful connections with peers is essential for personal growth and creating a supportive social network.
5 ways to make friends at uni
- Attend Orientation Events:
Orientation events are a fantastic way to make new friends at uni because, guess what, they’re also looking to make friends. Universities often organise orientation week with a plethora of fun activities, campus tours, and ice-breaking sessions.
Don’t be shy; participate actively in these events to introduce yourself to others. - Join Clubs and Societies:
One of our top “how to make friends at uni” tips is to join a club. Universities offer a diverse range of clubs and societies catering to various interests and hobbies.
Whether you are passionate about sports, arts, technology, or social causes, joining a relevant club can lead you to like-minded individuals. Engaging in shared activities and common interests is an excellent foundation for building lasting friendships. - Utilise Social Media and Forums:
In the digital age, social media plays a vital role in connecting people. Many universities have official social media groups and forums for incoming students.
Join these groups and actively participate in discussions. These platforms are a great way to virtually connect with your future classmates, ask questions, and find potential friends before you even set foot on campus. - Attend Career Fairs and Events:
Join us at a Careers Event Expo! Career fairs and events are not only for professional development but also provide an excellent opportunity to make new uni friends.
Engaging in conversations about your career aspirations and interests can naturally lead to personal connections beyond the academic sphere.
- Be Approachable and Open-Minded:
Making friends requires a certain level of openness and approachability. Smile, maintain eye contact, and show genuine interest when engaging in conversations with others.
Be open to different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Embracing diversity enriches your social experience and broadens your horizons.
Remember, everyone else is in the same boat, eager to make friends and expand their social circle.
Be proactive, attend orientation events, join clubs, and embrace the opportunities that university life presents.
Social media and digital platforms can also be your allies in connecting with future classmates even before the first day of classes.
Lastly, be open-minded and approachable, as these qualities will help you build authentic relationships with people from various backgrounds and cultures.
So, go ahead and embark on this exciting journey with confidence, knowing that you have the tools to make friends at uni and create lasting memories that will stay with you long after graduation.