If starting a new course and moving to new place wasn’t enough to throw you outside of your comfort zone, you’re also in a whole new social domain and have to start making a whole new bunch of friends.
Despite feeling the contrary though, this actually makes it the perfect time to meet new people and build your real social network.
There are a multitude of ways you can meet like-minded people at uni; here are nine of the best according to students who’ve successfully done it.
1. Join A Club
There isn’t a uni in this land that doesn’t have clubs and societies in abundance. From sports to music to history and everything in between there will be a club that’s perfect for you. Joining one of these has to be one of the best ways to meet new people that share the same interests and ambitions as you.
2. Use Social Media
Without encouraging you to become a stalker, using social media to check out who’s on your course or staying in your halls is a great way to meet like-minded people at uni. Sure, it could come across as a little bit creepy, but honestly you won’t be the only one doing this and it is a great way to introduce yourself if you’re not so confident face to face.
3. Volunteer
Volunteering, be it with a local charity or an event your uni is holding, can be a really good way to meet new people and make more philanthropic friends. Your student union will usually be able to advise you on voluntary roles available at your uni and in the community.
4. Use Communal Areas
Communal areas like lounges, study rooms, and libraries are perfect places to meet new people in a relaxed and informal manner. After all, you’re not going to make any friends if you spend all your time locked away in your room. Get out into commonly used areas as much as you can and chances are you’ll find others looking to meet like-minded people at uni.
5. Leave Your Door Open
Following on from the last tip, if you do decide to hang out in your room, why not buy a door stop and leave the door open to those passing by? This will make you look more sociable and encourage people to stop in and say hi.
