How to make friends at uni
Starting (or returning to) university is a very exciting time, but it can also be an incredibly lonely and confronting time.
Here are some tips on how to put yourself out there to build your crew and really make the best of your time at university:
1. Put yourself out there!
Chances are people are as nervous as you are so step outside your comfort zone by striking up conversation with someone waiting for a class to start. Another tip is to not sit by yourself in a class – opt to sit with other classmates and finally, minimise time on your phone in a social setting where you could be getting to know someone simply through a simple “hello” and a smile.
2. Join a club, society or sports team
Join in on quintessential university culture by joining one of UTS’s 130+ clubs and societies. These are great places to get a chance to get to know people with similar interests as you or to try something new you wouldn’t usually do e.g. PuzzleSoc.
3. Choose to live in shared student housing vs. by yourself
By participating in in shared housing you are joining a vibrant community of students in similar positions to you. UTS provides student accommodation/housing with many amazing opportunities to meet and bond with others, you can even collect tokens by attending UTS housing events to win prizes.
4. Attend orientation events
Attending orientation week is an amazing time to get comfortable with the campus and network with other students starting at the same time as you.
5. Know you have support
Putting yourself out there isn’t the easiest, so the UTS counselling service is in place to help with tools and support to feel your most confident.
6. Be yourself
By being yourself, you are creating friendships where you can flourish as a person without having to conceal your unique sparkle by worrying that people won’t like you for you. The best part of your university journey will be making lifelong friends and creating that all important support network through this crazy ride.
