Starting university is an exciting time filled with fresh faces, exciting adventures, and boundless opportunities. However, one of the challenges that many students have is making friends, especially when they find themselves in a new environment where they know no one. Nevertheless, fostering lifelong friendships during your university years is entirely possible with the right mindset and a bit of determination.

That's why, in this guide, I'll be sharing some valuable insights on how to make the most of your university experience, whether you're an introvert, extrovert, freshman, or senior. So, without further ado, sit back, relax, and get ready to make friends!

The Benefits of New Friendships at Campus

University friendships can greatly enhance your college experience and result in lifelong connections, regardless of whether you're a freshman or a senior.

Establishing friendships during freshers week is crucial, and socializing on college campuses affords the opportunity to attend sporting events and campus events, as well as try new things with great company. In turn, attending extracurricular activities improves life balance and provides a break from studying.

International students can connect with others and learn from one another by inviting people to attend online events. In addition, having new friends can open your mind to fresh ideas and offer much-needed emotional support during tough semesters. In fact, a college friend might even become a business partner or lifelong support system.

You will get more out of college in the short term and long run if you put yourself out there and make new friends.

A Few Tips to Keep in Mind Before You Make New Friends

If you're looking to make new friends in university, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, be honest with yourself and others. Don't feel the need to fake your personality just to fit in or impress others. Being your authentic self will attract good people, including like minded students who share your interests and values.

Secondly, don't rush into friendships. Building strong, meaningful relationships takes time, so don't give up if it takes a while to discover your tribe. Thirdly, be receptive to meeting new people. University students are diverse and there are plenty of opportunities to socialize, whether it's through course induction events or meeting new people in university halls.

Fourthly, it's important to know your biases. We all have unconscious prejudices that affect our interactions, which can impact our mental health. To develop lasting friendships, it is important to think about your beliefs and attitudes and challenge any biases that you may have.

Finally, it's important to prioritize friendships in your life. While life can get busy, making time for your best friends can bring joy and support to your life. With these tips in mind, you'll be on your way to making lasting friendships in university.

1. Join Online Groups for Freshers

If you're shy or have trouble approaching strangers, joining online fresher groups is a terrific method to make friends and build a community. These groups can range from student union-created university organisations to student-created Facebook groups for their course, housing, or interests.

Joining these groups before the start of the school year helps you adjust to university life. Before arriving on campus, you can learn about events, activities, and gatherings. By joining online groups, you get to know your peers in a relaxed setting.

However, it is critical to note that these online communities should not be used in place of real-life interactions. Instead, use them to start conversations and engage with others.

2. Make Friends at Freshers' Events

University life can be quite challenging, especially when it comes to meeting others. However, attending freshers' events can be a game-changer in how to make friends at university.

Fellow students gather here to bond and welcome newcomers. This is the perfect opportunity to invite people to spend time with you and meet like-minded students. Whether you prefer barbecues or pub crawls, freshers' events offer a diverse range of activities. Besides, freshers' fairs provide an excellent platform where you can check out various sports and drama clubs.

By interacting with like-minded students, you can create lasting friendships. It's understandable to feel nervous, but remember that everyone else is in the same boat too. Don't hesitate to talk to strangers and attend freshers' events and social activities as they are a surefire method to make lifetime friends.

3. Try Out Freshers Activities Out of Your Comfort Zone

Freshers events are a terrific opportunity to make friends while starting university, which may be thrilling and nerve-wracking. These events and initiatives are great for meeting like-minded people and becoming active in the campus community.

Trying something new can lead to some of the most meaningful experiences and connections. Joining a club or group for a new activity, a sports team, attending a language exchange programme, or working for a charity can lead to lifelong friendships and lovely memories. Breathe, say yes, and watch what happens. After all, university is the perfect opportunity to discover new interests, experience new things, and form lasting friendships.

4. Sign Up for Clubs and Societies

Most universities have a variety of clubs and societies to choose from, and signing up for one is a great way to combat social anxiety and meet new people. It's important not to judge people before you get to know them - joining a club or organisation can help you break out of your comfort zone and form good friendships.

Building strong relationships with like-minded individuals in a club or society can not only help you enjoy university more, but also provide professional networking opportunities in the future. Whether it's a club or a society, joining a club allows you to learn from others and expand your horizons beyond your studies. So don't hesitate to sign up for a club or society that interests you and reap the social, intellectual, and professional benefits.

5. Keep Your Door Open

Keeping your door open can make it easier to meet new people and form friendships in university. By leaving your door open while you study or hang out with friends, you make it seem like a good place for people to stop by and chat.

This allows your neighbours to approach you and bond over mutual interests. But keep in mind that building and keeping relationships takes work and time. So, don't be afraid to take the first step and keep your door open to meet new people today.

6. Hang Out in the Common Room

The university campus provides a space that allows for social interactions to flourish through its shared lounge areas. These spaces can be a haven to unwind and take a break from demanding academics.

You can take advantage of these spaces by engaging with other students who are here to study or play a game. The common room presents an opportunity to get a feel of the university culture amongst the student body.

These spontaneous social meetings can result in a lifelong bond with either a newfound friend or a memorable conversation. Ditch academia for a moment and socialize in these spaces- it could lead to cherished connections.

7. Introduce Yourself to People at University

Making friends at university can be daunting, but it is a necessary and rewarding experience. In the first few weeks, it is important to put oneself out there and introduce yourself to college students who are in the same boat. It is completely normal to feel nervous when approaching a stranger, but it is likely that they feel the same way.

Attending sporting events or social gatherings is a great opportunity to meet new people. When introducing yourself, start with a friendly greeting and ask about their name, hometown, or course. If you discover common ground or shared interests, use this as an opportunity to propose a group activity. Even if the conversation doesn't go as planned, always end it with a positive comment such as "It was really nice to meet you" or "Hope to see you again soon."

Remember that everyone in university is there to learn and grow, and putting oneself out there is the best method to make new friends. Don't be afraid to try! Who knows, lifelong friends are possible.

8. Stay on Campus to Study

Staying on campus to study makes social events and extracurricular activities like sports teams, clubs, and volunteering easier. These activities allow you to meet like-minded people and form relationships while pursuing your passions.

Campus study has other advantages. It improves time management. You can maximise your day by studying between classes or during allocated study hours. On campus, you can use the library, computer laboratories, and tutoring facilities. If you live off-campus and commute, studying on campus is more convenient than studying at home.

Remaining on campus to study is a great way to make friends, join clubs, manage your schedule, and use university resources.

9. Attend Faculty Activities

Faculty activities are a great opportunity to get active and make friends in college. These let you meet people with similar interests and learn about your faculty. Make it a point to attend get togethers, parties, career fairs, and industry experts talks.

Why not take a chance and sign up for some of the activities listed on your faculty's calendar that may be outside of your comfort zone? This is an excellent opportunity to meet other students and interact with lecturers and staff who can offer valuable support. Participating in extracurricular activities can broaden your horizons and enrich your university experience. Faculty activities offer a fun and effective way to make new friends and offer a great chance to try new experiences.

Sign up for some and discover where your university experience takes you!

10. Engage in Classroom Discussions

Engaging in classroom discussions not only facilitates learning but also fosters the development of meaningful friendships among students. Sharing in class allows your classmates to get to know you and see that you are interested in the subject matter. It demonstrates that you value their opinions and are open to new ideas.

Participating in discussions allows you to learn from others and gain a deeper understanding of the topics. This can lead to long-term friendships and meaningful conversations outside of class.

Participating in classroom discussions, while difficult at first, can be learned. Start by asking questions or sharing your thoughts, then progress to more active participation. Doing so will enhance your university experience and help you make lifelong friends.

11. Stay in Touch With High School Friends

Maintaining friendships after high school and starting university can be tough. However, a little effort can keep those relationships alive and strong. Regularly texting, calling, or video chatting can help.

No matter how busy life gets, it's crucial to prioritise quality time with your old friends. If you're looking to spend quality time with them, consider scheduling visits during your vacations or breaks. Make the most of the time you have together.

Staying connected and understanding each other's new lives are crucial. With love and dedication, high school friendships can last a lifetime .

12. Join an Online Study Group

You may join an online group to avoid being lonely. These websites provide access to specific lectures as well as the opportunity to collaborate with others and learn from them, making it easier to study. They can help you meet new friends and hold you accountable, both of which could boost your motivation and productivity.

Online platforms can also be beneficial for students who have scheduling conflicts and are unable to attend in-person courses. You can access resources, participate in discussions, and work with other students at any time. Check with professors or academic advisors, as well as social media and academic forums, to find university online platforms. Joining an online platform might improve not only your academic performance but also your social life at university.

In Short

Making friends in university may not be easy, but the rewards are worth the effort. Many students feel lonely and isolated at first, but by taking the time to explore communal areas and initiate conversation, you can find like-minded people who share your interests.

Some quick tips for building lasting friendships are: be yourself, respect others' differences, and actively listen to what they have to say. Remember to invest time in those interactions and maintain them, even when life gets busy. With these strategies in mind, you can enjoy all that university has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime.