Starting university is exciting, but if you’re naturally shy, the thought of making new friends can feel overwhelming. The good news? You’re not alone; many students are in the same boat, feeling nervous or unsure about making new friends. There are plenty of low-pressure ways to build meaningful connections. Here’s how you can ease into social life at uni, even if you’re not the life of the party.
Start with Your Flatmates
If you are staying in shared student accommodation, your flatmates are likely to be the first people you meet, making them a great starting point for forming friendships. You’ll naturally spend time together in shared spaces, so take advantage of those casual moments as these early interactions can lead to forming good friends.
Keeping your door open while unpacking or relaxing is an inviting gesture that shows you’re open to a chat. Another great way to bond is by suggesting a group takeaway or cooking night early on. Sharing a meal is an easy way to create connections without too much pressure.
Discover more tips for how to make friends in uni halls.
Take Advantage of Digital Communities
Many universities have online forums or social media groups dedicated to specific courses, events, or student life in general. Joining these groups can give you a low-pressure way to meet people before even meeting in person. You might find it easier to engage in conversations online, and this can serve as a stepping stone for face-to-face interactions later on.
Some universities also have platforms where students can connect before moving in, which can help you meet people ahead of time. Apps like Yubo and Bumble BFF also offer ways to connect with other students virtually, allowing you to build friendships at your own pace.
Attend Freshers/Social Events
Freshers and other social events organised by your university are particularly important during the first few weeks of university, providing the perfect opportunities to make new friends and meet new people. While they can seem intimidating, these events are designed with students in mind, so everyone is there to socialise and make new connections.
Arriving early can help you avoid large crowds and give you the chance to ease into conversations with others. You don’t have to dive into big group chats straight away—start small and gradually meet more people as the event progresses.
Join a Society or Club
University societies offer a fantastic way to meet people with the same interests. The key is to pick something you genuinely enjoy as it makes conversations flow more naturally. Go to taster sessions, as these one-off events are designed for newcomers and are ideal for shy students. If you’re looking for a more intimate atmosphere, choose smaller groups. Niche or hobby-based societies often have fewer members, making it easier to strike up conversations.
Hang Out in Communal Spaces
It can be tempting to spend downtime in your room, but making use of communal areas can naturally lead to more interactions. Whether it’s the communal kitchen in your student halls, the on-site gym or a café, simply being present and open to casual chats can gradually lead to friendships. It's normal not to find friends straight away, and spending time in these spaces can help ease into social interactions.
Even brief interactions can make familiar faces feel more approachable over time.
Volunteer for Uni Activities or Events
Volunteering is a brilliant way to meet people while also contributing to your university community. Whether it’s helping to organise an event, becoming a student ambassador, or working on a charity project, volunteering allows you to meet like-minded individuals who care about similar causes.
Volunteering also tends to involve smaller, more intimate group settings, which can feel more comfortable for shy people. Plus, doing something meaningful with others often strengthens connections more quickly. Additionally, volunteering can lead to finding a part-time job, which is another great way to meet new people.
Go to Course-Related Events
Your course is full of people you’ll see regularly, making it a prime place to form friendships. Course-related events, like guest lectures, study sessions, or networking opportunities, are great opportunities to connect with course mates. These events provide the perfect setting to meet others who share your academic interests. They often feel more comfortable because you already have something in common: your studies.
Building Friendships Takes Time
Remember, you’re not expected to form a large social circle overnight. Friendships naturally develop through shared experiences and regular interactions. By taking small steps and being kind to yourself, you’ll gradually find your people. Forming best friends can take time and patience, so it's important to be kind to yourself during this process.
Feel at Home at Lulworth
Making friends at university is easier when you feel comfortable and supported. At Lulworth Student Company, our welcoming private accommodation in Bournemouth creates the perfect environment for new connections – from shared living spaces to a friendly student community.