How to Make Friends at University

Starting university is exciting, but it can also feel daunting, especially when it comes to making friends. Almost everyone worries about this, even if they don’t admit it! There are many ways to meet people, and friendships often form more naturally than you expect.

Here’s a collection of tips and ideas to help you settle in and start building friendships whether you are starting university or back for another year and want to meet new people!

1. Make the First Move, Even if it Feels Awkward
A simple “Hey, are you in this seminar too?” or “Do you want to grab coffee after this?” can be the start of a friendship. Most people are secretly relieved when someone else speaks first.

2. Join Group Chats Early
Look for course, hall, and society group chats on WhatsApp, Facebook, Discord, Snapchat etc. Many people arrange meetups before lectures even begin. Don’t be afraid to say hi or react to messages as it’s a great way to connect before you meet in person.

3. Say Yes to Welcome Events (Even Small Ones)
Freshers’ Week isn’t just about nights out! Go to flat dinners, quiz nights, campus tours, film screenings, or society fairs. Some of the best friendships start at the most low-key events.

4. Hang Out in Shared Spaces
If you’re in halls, cook in the shared kitchen, spend time in common rooms, or study in social spaces. Just being around others makes it easier for conversations to happen naturally.

5. Join Societies & Sports Teams
Nottingham has hundreds of options, from football to baking to really niche hobbies. Try a few taster sessions (most are free!) until you find a good fit. Shared interests make starting conversations much easier.

6. Build Connections on Your Course
Sit next to someone new in lectures, form a study group, or grab lunch after seminars. Some of the closest friendships form while sharing notes or tackling deadlines together.

7. Create or Join Small Meetups
If no one is organising anything, take the lead! Suggest brunch, a trip into town, a games night, or a study session. Others are often waiting for someone to make the first move.

8. Volunteer or Get a Part-Time Job
Helping at open days, joining student ambassador teams, or working at on-campus cafés and bars puts you in contact with other students outside your flat or course.

9. Explore Uni Events & Activities
Check the Students’ Union calendar. There are mixers, food markets, city tours, film nights, and cultural events happening all the time.

💛 A Few Reassurances

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Everyone’s in the same boat- Most people are just as nervous about making friends as you are.

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It’s okay if it takes time- Some people find “their group” right away, others take weeks or months. Both are completely normal!

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Quality > quantity- You don’t need a massive group, even one or two close friends can make uni life amazing.

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Support is there if you feel lonely- Nottingham has fantastic wellbeing services e.g., Nottingham Nightline offers a completely confidential, non-judgemental space to talk.

Making friends at university isn’t about forcing yourself to be someone you’re not, it’s about finding people you feel comfortable with. Keep putting yourself in situations where you can meet others, stay open-minded, and give yourself time. The right friendships will form.

Have any specific worries about making friends at Nottingham? Feel free to ask any questions! 😊

Adelle – Official Student Rep

#UoN