Making friends at university is an adventure, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s not just about the hype of freshers’ week; friendship opportunities are everywhere, whether you’re a freshman or a senior. Let’s dive into the heart of making friends at university and how it can transcend time and circumstances.
Forget the idea that making friends is as simple as finding folks with similar interests and hanging out together. It’s more than that. Here are some down-to-earth tips to navigate the friendship journey:
- Shared Spaces : Keep your door open in halls, frequent the kitchen, and engage in activities like studying or watching Netflix in communal areas, it’s essential to go beyond mere proximity. Initiate conversations about hall decoration ideas, suggest fun games, or invest in a communal toasty or coffee machine—creating shared experiences that spark meaningful interactions among flatmates.
- Get Uncomfortable : Say “yes” to stuff that scares you a bit. Join random trips, and try new activities—it’s where you find not only friends but also bits of yourself you didn’t know existed.
- Watch the Booze : A little Dutch courage can help, but don’t overdo it. You don’t want to be the forgetful liability. Remembering names and details shared in conversations is key to making meaningful connections.
- Seek Out Groups : Everyone says it, because it’s true, join a group of like-minded people, whether this is university societies, sports groups in or outside the uni, or even join existing groups in your city through social media like “GIRL NON THE GO “
- Friend of a Friend : Expand your circle by talking to friends of friends. Great friendships often start with mutual connections.
- Expand Your Horizons : Take up a job at a café or volunteer—it’s a fantastic way to meet new people and open up to unexpected friendships.
- Stay True to You : Authenticity is everything. Be yourself, quirks and all, and don’t be afraid to share your thoughts and experiences with others.
- Empathy is Key : Everyone’s nervous about making friends, so be approachable and friendly. Remember, others are likely feeling just as anxious as you are.
- Remember names : Whether you struggle with memory or have indulged in a bit of alcohol, make an effort to remember people’s names and the things people share with you. It’s these small details that can spark meaningful conversations and deepen your connections over time.
- Study Socially : Don’t underestimate the power of studying in shared spaces like libraries or common rooms. Study sessions often lead to spontaneous chats and potential friendships.
- Things to open a conversation about: you can start a conversation by either commenting on the place you live, the food you eat or not, whether a lecture/lecturer was good or bad, if an assignment is ■■■■■■■, how hard it is to wake up in the mornings, this are issues we all related to that might spark a conversation.
In the end, be yourself. Authenticity breeds lasting friendships. Embrace your quirks and share openly—true connections are built on genuine honesty.
Post-freshers friendships:
Making friends at university isn’t always about the typical freshers’ experience or even the first year. Remember, friendships can pop up when you least expect them, and everyone’s journey is different.
Want to expand your social circle? Consider joining a society or even taking on a role in its committee. And don’t worry if you missed out at the start of the year—there’s no expiration date on making new friends.
Living off-campus? Strike up conversations with your neighbours. Maybe you’ve got extra cupcakes or need an extra player for a game—use any excuse to chat and see where it leads.
In class, don’t hesitate to ask for help or share thoughts on the subject. It’s a great way to break the ice and connect with others.
Keep doing what you’re doing—study in common areas, talk to new people, and be yourself. After all, friendships are built on empathy and authenticity, so don’t forget to be genuine while stepping into others’ shoes.
It’s all about mindset.
Befriend you before you befriend others:
- If you’re unsure of your interests, try engaging in activities solo to discover what you enjoy, then seek out like-minded individuals in various settings—whether it’s a local bar, cosy hangout spot, or outdoor adventure.
- Feeling too introverted? Embrace it and seek connections with others who appreciate your unique qualities.
- Wrestling with insecurities about how others perceive you? Challenge those negative thoughts and remind yourself that social media often portrays an incomplete picture of reality—consider hiding or unfollowing accounts or people that trigger your feeling of uneasiness.
As for feeling left out:
It’s essential to shift your focus away from comparing yourself to others. Just because someone appears to be in a close-knit group doesn’t mean they’re exempt from struggles or loneliness. Remember, everyone’s journey is different, and friendships come in all shapes and sizes.
- Some thrive in mixed-gender groups, while others prefer single-gender dynamics. Some have expansive social circles, while others find comfort in a few close connections.
And don’t forget, forming genuine friendships takes time—so be patient with yourself and others. In fact, it’s not uncommon for those deep, meaningful bonds to develop well into your university journey, possibly not fully solidifying until later on. So, embrace the process, take your time, and trust that authentic connections will come in due time
