Get top tips from students on making friend at university

Starting university is exciting, but making friends can be one of the hardest parts. You might be moving somewhere new, starting a new course and suddenly finding yourself surrounded by people you have never met before.

The good news is that most other students are in exactly the same boat. From joining societies and sports clubs to chatting to people on your course, there are plenty of ways to meet new people.

So, if you are wondering where to start, here are some simple tips for making friends at university.

Tips for making friends at university

1. Make the first move

Don’t wait for someone else to come and talk to you. Whether you’re in halls, sitting in a lecture or at a freshers’ event, introduce yourself and start a conversation.

It might feel awkward at first, but remember that most people are in the same position and are hoping to meet new people too.

2. Find events or activities

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with events and activities, in your halls, on campus or as part of your course. If you are living in University-owned or managed halls, you will have a host of events to access in your hall, where you can meet the people you're living with. 

3. Join a sports club

Joining a sports club is a great way to meet people outside your course. You don’t have to be particularly good at the sport either. Pick something you enjoy, or try something completely new.

Having regular training sessions and events also means you’ll see the same people often, which makes it easier to build friendships.

4. Try out different societies

University societies are one of the easiest ways to meet people who already share your interests. Whether you’re into music, gaming, films, cooking or something completely random, there’s likely to be a society for it.

Don’t be afraid to try a few before deciding which ones you actually enjoy.

5. Get involved with your course

Your course is a great place to make friends, especially as you’ll be seeing the same people throughout your degree.

Go along to course events, join group chats and get involved in activities outside of lectures. Even something simple, like grabbing food together after a seminar, can help you get to know people better.

6. Join group chats before you arrive

If your university has group chats for your course, accommodation or freshers’ events, join them before you get there.

You can start chatting to people, find out who else is going to the same events and even arrange to meet up once you arrive. It can make the first few days feel a lot less intimidating.

7. Say yes to things

You don’t have to go to every event you’re invited to, but try not to turn everything down. Go to that society taster session, join your flatmates for dinner or head to an event with someone from your course.

You never know who you might meet, and some of the most unexpected plans can lead to great friendships.

8. Give it time

You probably won’t find your closest friends on the first day, and that’s completely normal. Keep putting yourself out there and talking to people.

Friendships take time to develop, so don’t worry if it feels like everyone else has already found their group. There’s still plenty of time to find yours.