How you will make friends at university is one of the main things new students worry about, but it’s actually much easier than you might think. Here are various ways you can do it!
Just remember: everyone wants to make friends just as much as you do, especially during the first few weeks, and there are plenty of opportunities for you to do so. Being the helpful bunch we are, we’ve listed our key tips to get you started!
Before you arrive
Join Facebook Groups
Joining a Facebook Group is a great way of introducing yourself to people before you get to university. Communicating online can often be much easier than face-to-face if you’re a bit shy, and will give you some things to talk about when you eventually meet.
If you haven’t already, be sure to join Facebook groups for your course (which can be found in the University’s Undergraduate Offer Holder Group) and your student accommodation. Definitely check out the official #UofStirling Freshers 2021 Facebook Group to get info on everything from the Union’s Freshers activities to ‘where is lecture theatre A3?’.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to follow the University of Stirling on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!
Pack the right things
There’s a couple of things that you should add to your university packing list that might help you make a couple of friends when you arrive.
Take some games or at the very least a deck of cards, as these are a great way to break the ice and get everyone together!
During Freshers’ Week
Open Door Policy
If the accommodation you’re staying in allows, keep your bedroom door open. You might want to pack a doorstop for this.
A closed door might suggest you haven’t moved in yet or that you’re not in your room, so keeping the door open will invite people to come say hello and create a friendly atmosphere!
Keeping your door open will also mean you’ll hear what’s going on outside and you’ll be able to greet new arrivals.
Decorate your room
Decorating your room will not only make you feel more settled in, but it will also give you a great space to invite your new friends to hang out in.
Get involved in the Welcome activities
Right, you’d probably figured this one out already, but it’s worth emphasising that there’ll be LOADS of activities during the first few weeks and throughout the semester!
Both the Students’ Union and the University will be running different activities to help you make a great start to life at Stirling.
Whatever you decide to do, try not to spend the week hiding, but get out there and show your face as much as possible.
Check out what’s happening here!
Hang out in the living room
Waiting until the coast is clear to venture out of your room isn’t really helpful when it comes to making new BFFs aplenty. Try hanging out in the living room instead! It’s likely your flatmates will constantly be coming and going, so you have plenty of opportunity to chat to them.
Put the kettle on
Is there a more British way to make people like you than the selfless act of making a cuppa? We think not.
Whether it’s move-in day or sat watching Netflix – offering to make a cup of tea can work wonders! It shows you’re a caring person and will help everyone feel more at home in their new surroundings.
Check out (and join) clubs and societies
During the welcome period, you will be able to get to know all the clubs and societies so you can get a feel of what you’d like to join later on. There are over 120 clubs and societies at the University of Stirling, so you’re bound to find at least one or two which suits your interests.
Joining clubs and societies that suits your interests at the start of University is a great way to meet like-minded people and make friends.
And lastly…
Keep in mind that making friends doesn’t usually happen overnight, but a little effort at the start will go a long way!
We’re excited to welcome you back onto campus. We’re doing everything we can to make sure you feel safe at all times. On this page you’ll find out what you need to know and what you need to do ahead of coming to campus.