Making friends at uni

Uni is a unique time in your life, where there's so much emphasis put on finding your friends for life. And it makes sense. Over the next few years, you'll be meeting a ton of new people and it's a great idea to make the most of this.

Whilst this is an exciting time, it can also be a bit nerve-wracking. Feeling the pressure of finding 'your people' can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be this way. 

For most people, the social aspect of uni can be a little daunting, and this is to be expected. There aren't many times in life where there's such an emphasis put on making friends, and if you're feeling a little overwhelmed by this then it's important to remember that you're not alone. 

Whether you're an introvert or a social butterfly, making friends at uni is something that every student will worry about before they get here. So, take comfort in the fact that most people around you will be in the same boat, even if they're putting on a brave face.

If you are getting a little worried about making friends whilst you're at uni, or just wondering how to go about it, here's some advice. 

Be open-minded

You might think you already know what kind of people you do, and don't, gel with. Maybe you're looking to meet people with certain interests or hobbies or hoping to find friends who share the same views and opinions as you. Sometimes knowing this can be a great thing, but during uni this can make things a little more difficult, especially when it comes to making friends. 

One of the great things about uni is the diversity. You'll be meeting so many new people from all sorts of backgrounds, with so many different personalities floating about. So it's important to try not to pass any judgements too quickly or close yourself off from getting to know people. Differences can be a great thing, and embracing them can introduce you to so many new experiences and ways of thinking. 

Make an effort 

Even though sometimes it might not feel like it, trust us when we say that most people are just as nervous as you. So, don't always assume the other person is going to spark up a conversation, or make plans. If you do find that you get on with someone, make the first move. This might sound like dating advice here, but the principle also applies to friendships.

You can do this before you get here, by reaching out to your flatmates-to-be over social media, or when you arrive. Arranging study sessions, flat dinners, or just a couple of nights every now and then, are all ways to put yourself out there, and other people are sure to be glad that someone else made the effort. 

Get involved

In order to get the most out of your uni experience, you'll need to try and immerse yourself in everything your uni has to offer. From societies to sports teams, there'll be lots of ways to get involved. The great thing about this is that a lot of these activities are great ways to meet new people, whilst also taking the pressure off the conversation a little. Whether you have any particular hobbies or interests, or just starting something new, make sure you get involved in some activities on offer. 

The most important thing to remember is that building good friendships take time and should be an enjoyable experience. So don't put too much pressure on yourself to make your friends for life straight away. Give it time, be yourself, and just make the most of this exciting time.