University friends are great. They share an important time in your life, a time when you’re all discovering who you are and where you might go with your life. Since they meet at such a pivotal time, many people find that university friends are lifelong friends. But hang on, before they become friends forever you have to actually meet them! Here are some great tips for finding like-minded people at university.
Smile
This is so basic – but many people just don’t do it enough. Most people are nervous in the first week or so at university, even if they don’t show it. Making yourself appear friendly and approachable will help you to find people to talk to. Remember people’s names if you possibly can, but don’t be afraid to ask again.
Join in
This can be tricky for students who are really shy, but if you see something fun going on, join in. If volunteers are needed for a group activity, consider it even if it’s slightly outside your comfort zone. This is a good time to experiment with stretching yourself. Even joining in on a quiet cup of tea in the canteen before lectures can be a good way to meet people.
Look Outside your Course
People on your course may be the obvious choice for friends, but don’t discount making friends on other courses or even outside of university. People you meet during outside activities, perhaps societies and clubs outwith the university or even down the pub, can become excellent friends.
Include People
Sometimes it’s you having a good time while someone else is feeling shy! Take care to include people who look like they’d like to be part of a conversation during the first, most exhausting weeks in particular. Take an extra cup to university so you can make someone a cuppa.
Let others Talk
It’s easy to forget that conversation should go both ways in the excitement of meeting new people. Many late night conversations in halls of residence are incredibly noisy as everyone tries to impart lots of information about themselves. Be the person that listens. There will be plenty of time to let people know the details about you later on, by which time you’ll know about the topics that interest your friends. This makes it easier to start conversations.
Join up
There are lots of student clubs and there is bound to be something you’re interested in, so join up and find other people who are interested, too! The larger universities often have more choice, but even smaller ones have plenty on offer. Ask around. Older students, student support services and information boards are good ways to find out what extracurricular sports, clubs and activities are available. Look at websites like Solent University‘s to get an idea of the range that might be available.
Whether the people you meet in those important first few weeks become friends for a reason, a season or for life, they’re sure to make an impact on you. If you do keep in touch, you’ll always have your university time in common, no matter where life takes you afterwards. Enjoy your time and be yourself.