Making Friends at Herts

Hi everyone! I’m Juan, a former student at the University of Hertfordshire and now member of the University’s Marketing team. As the academic year comes to an end, many of you will be planning for university, bringing much excitement, but also some nerves and questions about what may come. I wanted to write this post hoping I could shed some light on the many opportunities students have to meet new people and make friends at Herts, a crucial aspect of university and life itself.

Meeting new people and making friends in a new environment is by no means an easy feat. The pressure to live up to “university life” can be overwhelming and nerve-racking. In my experience, I was fortunate to have friends I knew prior that were going to the same university as me, enabling me to lean on my friends at the start and throughout my time. However, I joined at an unprecedented time, where the outbreak of COVID-19 meant that my experience would be vastly different to those who came before and after me. What helped me massively when I moved into campus and had in-person lessons the year after, were the vast opportunities and the warm environment this university is proud to provide.

With ample green spaces, communal facilities, and organised events, you will never be short of opportunities to meet new people and socialise when you join Herts.

🚌 Commuting?

If you’re not living in or around our campuses, please do not feel like these opportunities will not apply to you. Be encouraged to take part in as much as you can and be sure to spend some time in our campuses to be absorbed in the vibrant culture we have in Herts. Having experienced living on-campus and commuting, a lot of the points below will be a massive help for all types of students – especially study groups, societies and use of facilities!

📱 Use social media and community platforms

Very early on in your time at university (sometimes before you’ve even started), you will have the opportunity to join group chats on various platforms, namely WhatsApp and Facebook. Here you’ll be able to get to know your fellow students and plan events, meet ups, study sessions etc. It’s a great way to familiarize yourself with new people and break the ice!

🎟️ Attend fresher events

Events are designed to welcome new students and help them acclimate to campus life. These events include our Welcome Fair, parties at the Forum and other social activities. These are perfect opportunities to meet other freshers who are just as eager to make new friends as you are.

⚽ Join clubs and societies

Mutual interest is a great way to create connections with people. There's a wide array of societies and clubs where you can meet and bond with people alike! I, myself, joined the film society and regularly played football during Herts’ Active Students sessions.

👩*🏫 Attend lessons

While it might seem obvious, attending lectures and seminars can be a great way to meet people. Strike up conversations with classmates before or after class. Study groups are another excellent way to collaborate and form friendships.

🏡 Participate in flat activities

Living on/near campus can be a fantastic way to meet new people. Many flats organize events such as movie nights, study groups, and dinners. Take advantage of these activities to bond with your flatmates. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to the people you’ll be living around on moving day - it’s a great way to start a conversation.

🏢 Make use of university facilities

Herts provides various facilities that are conducive to socialising. The student union, gym, and library are great places to meet people. Attend events provided by the student union, join a fitness class, or participate in a study group at the library. These are all excellent ways to interact with fellow students. Our libraries are open 24/7, providing the perfect space for those inevitable all-nighters with your friends.

🧠 Be open-minded

Our campus is full of students and staff from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Embrace this diversity and be open to forming friendships with people from different walks of life. Attend cultural events, try new cuisines, and learn about different traditions. This not only broadens your horizons but also helps you build a diverse and enriching social circle.

🫡 Take initiative

Any relationship will require effort from both/all parties. To prevent a special encounter, acquaintance, or relationship from fleeting, being proactive and taking the first (and sometimes, second) step can often lead to meaningful connections.

I really do hope these tips help, but unfortunately there is no handbook for making friends! The bonds you form are determined by the appreciation you and your friend will have for each other, so it’s always important to be yourself! Be kind, open and caring to those around you. Make the most of this time, learn and enjoy all you can, because before you blink, you'll be wearing the cap and gown reminiscing on how special your time was!

I hope this has helped, good luck to all!

Juan

Marketing