One of the most common worries about starting university isn’t about lectures or coursework — it’s “What if I don’t make any friends?” If that’s on your mind, you’re absolutely not alone.
University is a huge transition, and whether you’re moving far from home or commuting locally, the social side of things can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: everyone is in the same boat, and there are plenty of ways to connect with others — in your own time and in a way that works for you.
🤝 Making Friends at University: What Helps
Universities know how daunting that first week can be, which is why they put a lot of thought into Freshers Week events, welcome activities, and society fairs. These are all designed to help you meet people who share your interests — whether that’s football, film, photography, gaming, or something really niche.
Top Freshers Week tips for making friends:
• Attend a few welcome events, even if you don’t stay for long
• Join a society or club (you don’t need to be an expert — just interested!)
• Be open to small conversations in shared spaces like your flat kitchen, common rooms, or campus cafés
• Remember that you only need to connect with a few people — it’s not about becoming instantly popular
If you’re feeling social anxiety or you’re neurodivergent, many universities also offer quiet welcome events, peer mentoring, and support groups. These provide a calmer, more inclusive environment to meet others without the pressure of big crowds or loud music
🗣️ Meg’s Story: It Didn’t All Happen in Week One
“I remember feeling so worried about making friends before I started uni – I thought everyone else would instantly click and I’d be left out.
But honestly, most people are just as unsure. I pushed myself to go to a few society events, even though it was nerve-wracking at first. That’s how I met some of my closest friends — I signed up for the Fashion Society, and the people there really got me.
It didn’t all happen in the first week, and that’s okay. Take your time and know that real connections will come when you least expect it.” – Meg
💬 Final Thoughts
You don’t need to find your best friends in Week One. You’re allowed to ease into uni life, skip events that aren’t your thing, and take breaks when you need to. Social life isn’t a race — it's a slow build, and meaningful friendships often grow gradually over time.
Whether you’re an extrovert or introvert, neurodivergent or just feeling uncertain — there is space for you to find your people. Just take it at your own pace.