Meeting people
Kinda sad, but what are the best ways to go about making friends.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
Reply 1
Hi there,
I’ve also been a commuting student, and I know it can sometimes feel like everyone else has already formed their groups. It can be tough balancing travel, classes, and a social life, especially when you don’t want to be out too late. Here's a few things that helped me:
Talk to People in Your Lectures
It can feel intimidating to approach others, especially if it looks like everyone else has already formed their own groups. But starting a conversation can be easier than you think! A simple “Hi, I’m [Your Name]—do you mind if I join you?” is often all it takes. Most people are open to new faces, and if someone’s saving a seat for a friend, no worries—just find another spot.
Lectures are a great place to start because you already share a common interest. Try asking about the course, what they think of the lecturer, or whether they’ve joined any societies yet. You could even suggest grabbing lunch or a coffee after class, or start a group chat for your seminar group.
Another great idea is setting up a study group in the library. It’s perfect for working on group presentations or helping each other with assignments—and honestly, it’s just a nice way to get to know people in a relaxed, productive setting (bonus points if you bring snacks!)
Join Societies
Societies are one of the best ways to meet people who share your interests. Whether you’re into sports, creative hobbies, or something niche, there’s usually something for everyone. Most societies share updates on social media, so you can check when they meet and how often—they’re not all late-night commitments. And if you can’t find one that fits, you could always start your own.
Stay Overnight Occasionally
Commuting can be tiring, especially if you’ve got back-to-back lectures or social events in the evening. If it’s possible, consider staying overnight nearby every once in a while. It can make things easier and give you a chance to enjoy events without worrying about getting home in the dark.
Part-Time Work and Volunteering
Part-time jobs and volunteering are amazing ways to meet people while gaining experience. You’ll often work with students or locals who you might not meet otherwise. Even if you already have a job, look out for short-term or one-off opportunities—they can be a fun change of pace and a good way to expand your circle.
Get Involved Outside of Uni
Not all friendships start on campus—some of the best connections I’ve made have come from outside uni, through local hobby groups, social clubs, or even things like weekly pub quizzes or creative workshops. These can be great places to meet people with shared interests in a more relaxed setting.
Being a commuting student doesn’t mean missing out. Sometimes it takes a little extra confidence, initiative, and planning, but people are often waiting for someone to take that first step 🙂
Megan (LJMU Rep)
I’ve also been a commuting student, and I know it can sometimes feel like everyone else has already formed their groups. It can be tough balancing travel, classes, and a social life, especially when you don’t want to be out too late. Here's a few things that helped me:
Talk to People in Your Lectures
It can feel intimidating to approach others, especially if it looks like everyone else has already formed their own groups. But starting a conversation can be easier than you think! A simple “Hi, I’m [Your Name]—do you mind if I join you?” is often all it takes. Most people are open to new faces, and if someone’s saving a seat for a friend, no worries—just find another spot.
Lectures are a great place to start because you already share a common interest. Try asking about the course, what they think of the lecturer, or whether they’ve joined any societies yet. You could even suggest grabbing lunch or a coffee after class, or start a group chat for your seminar group.
Another great idea is setting up a study group in the library. It’s perfect for working on group presentations or helping each other with assignments—and honestly, it’s just a nice way to get to know people in a relaxed, productive setting (bonus points if you bring snacks!)
Join Societies
Societies are one of the best ways to meet people who share your interests. Whether you’re into sports, creative hobbies, or something niche, there’s usually something for everyone. Most societies share updates on social media, so you can check when they meet and how often—they’re not all late-night commitments. And if you can’t find one that fits, you could always start your own.
Stay Overnight Occasionally
Commuting can be tiring, especially if you’ve got back-to-back lectures or social events in the evening. If it’s possible, consider staying overnight nearby every once in a while. It can make things easier and give you a chance to enjoy events without worrying about getting home in the dark.
Part-Time Work and Volunteering
Part-time jobs and volunteering are amazing ways to meet people while gaining experience. You’ll often work with students or locals who you might not meet otherwise. Even if you already have a job, look out for short-term or one-off opportunities—they can be a fun change of pace and a good way to expand your circle.
Get Involved Outside of Uni
Not all friendships start on campus—some of the best connections I’ve made have come from outside uni, through local hobby groups, social clubs, or even things like weekly pub quizzes or creative workshops. These can be great places to meet people with shared interests in a more relaxed setting.
Being a commuting student doesn’t mean missing out. Sometimes it takes a little extra confidence, initiative, and planning, but people are often waiting for someone to take that first step 🙂
Megan (LJMU Rep)
Reply 2
Hey! Totally understand where you’re coming from, making friends as a commuter can feel a bit tricky at first…
I get how hard it seems to start a conversation, most people feel the same way though, they just don’t say it. The good part about this situation is that it’s easier than you think. A simple conversation about your lecture can sometimes be all it takes!
I'm a commuting student myself, and what helped me the most was talking to people in my course during long breaks between classes. That’s when most of us go to the library/local cafes, which are good spaces for socialising. Also, a lot of students hang around for a few minutes at the end of classes, and that’s a great time to start a quick conversation, as it feels natural and low-pressure.
I also tried to study in communal areas a lot, as it's a bit easier approaching people and asking them if they want to study with you. Volunteering on campus for different roles also helps, you can meet various different people through those activities! Also, if your uni offers different workshops, sign up! Whether they consist of super random activities, or something you’re into, sociable people will be there!
It’s great you’re willing to put effort into forming new friendships, that’s already a good start! You got this, good luck!
Sabina
I get how hard it seems to start a conversation, most people feel the same way though, they just don’t say it. The good part about this situation is that it’s easier than you think. A simple conversation about your lecture can sometimes be all it takes!
I'm a commuting student myself, and what helped me the most was talking to people in my course during long breaks between classes. That’s when most of us go to the library/local cafes, which are good spaces for socialising. Also, a lot of students hang around for a few minutes at the end of classes, and that’s a great time to start a quick conversation, as it feels natural and low-pressure.
I also tried to study in communal areas a lot, as it's a bit easier approaching people and asking them if they want to study with you. Volunteering on campus for different roles also helps, you can meet various different people through those activities! Also, if your uni offers different workshops, sign up! Whether they consist of super random activities, or something you’re into, sociable people will be there!
It’s great you’re willing to put effort into forming new friendships, that’s already a good start! You got this, good luck!
Sabina
Reply 3
Original post
by _a.b_arts_Kinda sad, but what are the best ways to go about making friends.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
Hey,
I totally get that! It’s a common assumption that late-night clubs are the only way to socialise at university, when that’s definitely not true. Your safety and comfort come first!
Here are a few quick, daytime-focused ways to make friends:
1.
Commuter Connection: Check your Students' Union website for a Commuter or Local Students Society. They often host specific daytime events, meet-ups, or even have a dedicated common room where you can easily strike up a conversation.
2.
Societies: Great idea to join societies, but look for ones with daytime/afternoon activities.
3.
The Direct Opener: This requires minimal effort and is something I still do!
4.
After your final lecture or seminar, turn to the person next to you and say: "How did you find that class?"
5.
This instantly gives you a shared topic. Follow up by asking about their hobbies: "What do you do outside of uni?" You might find that common interest!
Hope this helps!😊
Rachel
(Third Year)
Undergraduate Multimedia Journalism
Reply 4
Original post
by _a.b_arts_Kinda sad, but what are the best ways to go about making friends.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
Hiya @_a.b_arts_ ,
Joining a society is a great way to start as you get to meet people from other faculties 🙂 However, if you are unable to join a society, look out for one off events organised by the student union or faculties. This may be a film screening, nature trail or a weekly fundraiser that certain courses might be hosting 🤗
Ultimately, strong friendships take time to build and grow. You might not click at first with everyone you meet but eventually you will find some people that you gel with.
Why not try asking one of your classmates out for coffee or try organising a study session regarding a topic you are struggling with?
All the best!
Zhi En
(Kingston Student Rep.)
Reply 5
Original post
by _a.b_arts_Kinda sad, but what are the best ways to go about making friends.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
Hi there!
I’m Aura, a final-year Computer Science student at the University of Staffordshire in Stoke-on-Trent. When I first started university, I found it quite hard to make friends. I wasn’t really aware of all the different things happening on campus and since I walked 45 minutes to uni every day, it wasn’t easy for me to stay late, especially in winter when it got dark and freezing!
It wasn’t until my second year that I realised just how much was going on. At our Uni, Wednesdays are our “society day,” which means lectures finish by 1pm so societies can run events earlier in the afternoon instead of later in the evening. It’s worth checking with your Students’ Union to see if your university does something similar!
Some of my coursemates also set up study groups where we could learn new skills, collaborate on projects or just hang out. I started volunteering too — as a course rep, student trustee and by helping out at fun campus stalls. These experiences really helped me build my confidence and meet new people, often before 5pm.
If your uni has a café, bar or pub nearby, try stopping in for a chat with someone new. It can feel awkward at first, but remember everyone’s in the same boat and most people are just as open to meeting others as you are. Hope that's useful, ta!
Reply 6
Original post
by _a.b_arts_Kinda sad, but what are the best ways to go about making friends.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
I take the bus into Uni so don't really want to be going in late as don't feel safe being out alone when it's too dark. So other than clubs and societies, which mainly seem to be after dark, what is the best was to go about making friends.
I'm not exactly a conversation starter, I will respond and be chatty when spoken to first but not the best at starting the conversation.
Thanks in advance.
Hi there,
It can be hard to make friends at uni, so don't feel bad about asking as it is so worth asking to find out some good ways to meet people!
Here are some ways that I would suggest you could meet people while you are at uni:
•
See if your SU puts any events on. They may put some on during the day so that you can meet some people without having to stay at uni too late and they are often really fun! I know Hallam does lots of events and I am sure that any other uni will too so have a look!
•
Try and chat to the people on your course. See if anyone wants to go for a coffee after uni, or even just go to the library together and do some work and just chat to them while doing this! I know it may feel daunting but it is so worth it.
•
You could also have a look online and see if there are any groups that you could join on social media as this is often a good way of meeting some new people and making friends! There are often some on Facebook which are good for meeting new people.
•
You could also see of there are any societies which meet during the day as this would be a good way to meet some people without having to be out too late. You might be able to find some information out online, or you can always message the societies and see when they tend to meet.
I hope some of this helps,
Lucy -SHU student ambassador.
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- Best ways to make friends and connections at University
- Making new friends
- Best tips for making friends in uni?
- Relationship
- Struggling to Make Friends at Uni — Is This Normal?
- Dating in uni
- Uni friends freshers
- Friends at university
- making friends
- Uni academic advisor
- Social experience at uni if commuting in
- Any tips on how to be less lonely at uni
- No friends in uni making me feel very demotivated
- My only friend on the course might be leaving
- Making friends mid second year
- Is 2nd Year too late to make friends
- Finding ‘my people’ at Uni
- How can I make friends when I go university?
- how to socialise as a commuter?
- I don't know what to do
Latest
Trending
Last reply 4 months ago
Laptop vs iPad for universityLast reply 4 months ago
living away from home for university- pros / cons, advice ?University life
15
15
Last reply 4 months ago
Should I Appeal an Academic Misconduct Finding at a UK University?Last reply 4 months ago
Will I be an outcast in uni if I don’t use social media?University life
14
13
How The Student Room is moderated
To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.
