Making friends at uni
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi there,
There isn't necessarily an exact science to making friends and sometimes the best friendships start unexpectedly. But, I've been in your position and I found a few ways to overcome your comfort zone and start meeting people.
I started by saying yes to as many things as possible. This included social events at sixth form, extracurricular groups and activities, sports groups, helping out with school events, etc. I'm not sure what your sixth form will offer, but I'm sure there's a few things you could try. Even if you only try these things once, it's a great way to set yourself a goal to attend these things and you never know who you might meet when you're there. The thought of trying these things can quite often feel worse than actually going, so why not push yourself to give something new a try.
You're also probably not the only one who feels like this, so try not to feel intimidated about starting conversations with people at your sixth form. Start with a compliment or chatting to someone in your class about the work you're doing. This could lead to something amazing and a great friendship, or just a quick chat with someone new, but you'll never know unless you try.
Give yourself a chance to try some new things and meet some new people. And don't worry if it takes a bit of time or you feel a little comfortable at first. You can also try to see this as an opportunity for a fresh start and to make new friendships instead of looking at it with a more negative perspective. You've got this!
Best of luck. 🙂
Emily
Student Rep at BCU
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi!
I was in the exact same boat as you, went to a small sixth form where I already knew most people. So I can definitely empathise with you, I felt the same. Having come to uni and found amazing friends I feel I can offer you some advice.
1.
Uni is not like sixth form - everyone is new and trying to make friends, so, people are more open to socialising and this takes the pressure off you.
2.
The best way to meet people is to get involved - go to as many events, try out for as many societies and chat with as many people as you can! You never know where you will meet your people.
3.
If you don't make friends straight away, don't panic - I didn't meet some of my now best friends until at least halfway through first year. Friendships take time to develop, don't put too much pressure on becoming best friends immediately.
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi there,
Making friends can be tricky so I understand where you are coming from. There are so many different ways of making friends and meeting people so I thought I would give you some of my ideas on some good ways of making friends. If you do decide to take a year out and make some friends, this is how I would make friends before uni:
•
Join a club. See if there are any clubs in your area that you like the sound of - sports teams are good for this so have a look if there are any near you. Team sports are good for meeting people and just for your confidence in general!
•
Attend social events. If your sixth form has an event on, make sure you go to this and talk to people there. Or, see if your friends that went to college are going to any events that you can go to as well as you might meet some new people this way.
•
Be friends with your friends friends. If your friends went to a big college where they met lots of people, they will probably be meeting up with them so see if you can go too as you will meet lots of people by doing this.
If you go straight to uni, here are some ways I would suggest for making friends:
•
Try and say yes to things! If people ask you to do something, say yes as this is how you meet lots of people. At uni, you will see lots of different people as you will meet people in your halls, your course and just through friends of friends. Try and be friendly and go to as many things as you can as it is good to get out of your comfort zone and do this.
•
Join a society. You meet so many different people this way and most people who join a society are sociable and are wanting to meet people. The socials are fun too and it also just gets you out doing something that you enjoy doing rather than just staying in.
•
Talk to people in your lectures and seminars. Especially if you do group work, this is a great opportunity to talk to lots of people and make friends. Try and talk to a new person in each lecture and sit next to new people in the first few weeks so you get to know a wide range of people.
•
Look on social media before you get to uni as you can often meet quite a few people this way! There will usually be groups for each uni, each course and accommodation so you meet lots of people here and it can be less daunting than speaking to people face to face.
•
Try and set a goal of talking to a set amount of new people a week. Sometimes when you have a goal in mind, it can make you do it and once you start doing it you will realise it is a lot less scary than you may think it is at first!
I hope some of this helps,
Lucy -SHU student ambassador.
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi there,
I feel as though my situation was quite similar to yours, as I also went to my secondary's sixth form and didn't feel too confident in my abilities to socialize with others. Looking back now, I'm in awe of how much has changed, so hopefully this is reassuring for you!
I think getting out there as soon as possible is extremely important, so I made sure to show my face around my accommodation the day I moved in. This might be in the common room, in the kitchen, or by keeping your door open for others to introduce themselves as you unpack. I feel like this is a critical time, as many people are just as nervous and worried that they won't make friends, and it turns out to be a lot easier than you think.
Getting involved in anything you are interested in is also a great idea. Not only does it enhance your university experience, but it is a great way to meet like-minded people. I became a student ambassador, volunteered on-campus and in the city, studied abroad, and made sure to do things I enjoyed often. Getting involved before you move to university will definitely help to make this easier too. Starting is always the hardest part!
It's also important to remind yourself that so many people feel the same way. They're just as nervous and unsure as you are, so there may be times where you'll be the one to get the courage to talk first - which is great! You'll be surprised at just how much you can grow in such a short time and in a new environment. Be open, be curious, and be kind to yourself!
I hope this helps and best of luck,
Isabella
Fourth-Year Geography with a Year Abroad Student
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Step 1: Orientation Events—because nothing says “Let’s be friends” like awkward ice-breakers and forced fun. But hey, everyone’s in the same boat, so embrace the cringe and laugh about it later.
Step 2: Join Societies and Clubs—find something you vaguely enjoy or are mildly curious about. Pretend you’re super passionate and strike up conversations. Remember, everyone’s there because they need friends too.
Step 3: Lecture Buddy System—Pick the person next to you and form a pact of mutual suffering through lectures. It’s a bonding experience like no other.
Step 4: Flatmates—You’re stuck with them, might as well make the best of it. Host a “mandatory fun night” and make everyone participate. Bribery with food usually works.
Step 5: Library Chat—Everyone’s pretending to study, so break the silence with a clever comment about the painful textbook you’re both stuck with. Instant connection over shared misery.
Step 6: Get Out of Your Room—Shocking, I know. But actually leaving your room occasionally might just put you in the path of other humans. Revolutionary.
And remember, everyone’s just as nervous as you are. So, smile, be yourself, and embrace the awkwardness. You got this. 😉
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hello,
I know exactly what you are feeling as I was just the same as you when I first started university. Just like you, I had gone to a really small school and stayed on for the sixth form so was only meeting the people I had known since I was 11. It was very daunting to say the least. But one thing I will say is no matter how big or small your sixth form was everyone is feeling the same, really nervous and worried about making new friends, which is sort of a good thing as it means it doesn't really matter the size of the school you were at before, everyone is starting fresh and from scratch just like you.
The best advice I can give you is to get involved with all the activities and sports that the university has to offer that interest you and have confidence in yourself, your socialising skills will be just fine! Maybe suggest to some of the people in your seminar groups to have a coffee after a session, or meet up for lunch. You could be the one that initiates the conversations with your classmates - maybe arrange to go to the library together to study?
I hope this helps, good luck,
Jess
University of Chester PhD English
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi, I completely understand where you’re coming from!
To meet new people and step out of your comfort zone, consider joining clubs and societies that align with your interests. Whether it’s a hobby, sports, or a volunteer organisation, shared interests can make it easier to connect with others. You might also look into local events or workshops, even attending a few one-off events can help you meet diverse people in a low-pressure environment.
If you’re comfortable, challenge yourself to start conversations with classmates or people at these events. It might feel awkward at first, but everyone is looking to connect, and a simple “Hi, I’m [Your Name], what do you study?” can break the ice. It might feel daunting, but remember that everyone else is likely feeling a bit unsure too. Don’t underestimate the power of taking small steps, sometimes just getting out of the house and being around people can help rebuild your confidence over time. You've got this!
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi Anom,
I see you have had some excellent advice already! I'd love to add my input.
The idea of meeting new people may be daunting, but university is an excellent place to socialise. Some of the best opportunities to meet new friends includes:
•
Freshers: This is an great chance to meet other new students. I recommend going to many of the events, especially those that encourage socialising.
•
Societies: This is my top recommendation for making friends. The purpose of a society is to bring together like-minded people and you are bound to find a society that's right for you! I recommend checking out your universities students union website beforehand and get an idea of the societies you may be interested in.
•
Class: Having the common interest of your degree is the ultimate ice breaker. Depending on the course, you may be given some opportunities in class to get to know and bond with your classmates, I recommend taking advantage of this. For my class, our tutors arrange for us all to go bowling, while my friend went to an escape room!
There are so many chances to make friends at uni because there are so many people on campus, so you are bound to find the perfect friend group for you. So don't let this stress you out! 😊
I hope this helped, please feel free to ask me any questions,
-Sophia (business and Managment)
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi,
When I first started university, I decided to join a few different societies to see which ones I liked and then decide from there what I wanted to do. I feel this is one of the best ways there is to make friends and get yourself out there at University.
I hope this helps,
Matt
Wrexham Uni Reps
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi there,
I hope you are doing well! One of the best ways I made friends was by joining societies! Most likely whatever University you decide to go to will have a societies fair during freshers week where all societies will show what they have to offer. I have met some of my best friends through societies and although it was scary at first joining a new group where I knew no one, it was one of the best decisions I have made
I hope this helps and hope you have a good day!
Rachel
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Hi there,
Making friends at uni can feel a bit daunting at first, but it’s one of the best parts of the experience! Here are some tips to help you build connections:
1.Smile, make eye contact, and be ready to strike up conversations. A simple “Hi, how’s your day going?” can break the ice.
2.Get involved in activities that interest you. Societies and clubs are great for meeting like-minded people and give you an instant common ground.
3. From fresher’s week to course mixers, show up to events happening on and off-campus. Even if you’re shy, just being around people makes it easier to connect.
4.Take the opportunity to collaborate, exchange contact info, and suggest meeting up for study sessions. It’s a natural way to bond.
5.Spend time in student lounges, libraries, cafes, or wherever people in your course gather. Casual conversations often start in these spaces.
6.Authenticity goes a long way. Be yourself and people will appreciate you for who you are.
7.Join uni-related Facebook groups, WhatsApp, or Discord servers. Engaging online can make in-person meetings feel less intimidating.
8.When invited to hangouts, trips, or even casual lunches, make an effort to join in, even if you feel nervous. The more you engage, the easier it becomes.
Building friendships takes time, but consistent effort and openness will lead to meaningful connections. Enjoy the journey!
Hope this helps.
Coventry University Student Ambassadors
There are lots of different ways to make friends at university! I'll list a few here that really helped me:
•
Talk to people in your lectures- they're all in the same boat as you and you are all studying the same subject, so you already know you have something in common! Maybe suggest to grab some lunch or a drunk after a lecture and see if people want to hang out.
•
Join clubs and societies- This one really helped for me. It helps you meet new people with similar interests as yourself. I joined the Musical Theatre and the Doctor Who society at my uni, and I have made some best friends for life who are just as nerdy as me.
•
Talk To Your Flatmates- Make a point of sitting in the living room in your flat and talk to your flatmates when they come in. Get to know them, suggest going for some food or a drink. You'll be living with these people for a whole year (if you go into student accommodation) so make the most of getting to know them.
•
There is an app called Meet-Up that really helped me when I was struggling to make some friends. There are events like meals, book clubs, chess nights, all sorts of things that you could go to and meet new people.
From Josh
(Official LJMU Rep)
Tips for the best way to meet people/get out of your comfort zone?
Zhi En
(Kingston Student Rep.)
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