One of the biggest worries new students face is making friends. Starting university can be both a terrifying and exciting experience but it allows you to get out of your comfort zone, try new things and meet new people. If you're one of the many people who worry about making friends, try to remember that everyone is in the same boat and shares concerns about fitting in and creating the ultimate friendship group. Here are some helpful tips on how to make friends at university. Whether you're just starting or you're in the third year, these tips will hopefully help in some way!

 

 

1. Bake cakes

 

Everyone loves a cake. It doesn't matter if you're an expert baker or a novice, cooking up a batch of cupcakes will surely go down a treat (and your flat will smell heavenly). If you're the first to move in and maybe a little socially awkward like me and find it hard to introduce yourself and make small talk, then handing over a cake that you've freshly made is a great idea. It gets the conversations going and you've gained a friend instantly. You can also take your baked goods over to neighbouring flats to get to know more people. There are so many easy recipes to follow online. 

 

2. Get involved

 

If your flatmates are going to the freshers fair then go with them. You're not going to make friends if you just stay in your room all day. It's okay to have a couple of days to yourself, but during freshers week especially, it's essential to get out there as much as possible and join in with everything. Your future self is thanking you already! Go to all the clubs, fairs and events, have fun and chat to as many people as you can.

 

3. Join a club or society

 

There are so many societies out there from the curry appreciation society to the Harry Potter appreciation society and the zombie society. By joining a society, you'll be able to meet people who share the same interests as you and this may be the place where you find your new best friend. It's always a good idea to have a few different friendship groups at university and joining a club or society is a great way to do that.

 

4. Chat with people on your course

 

Already, you have something in common with the people on your course; they are interested in the same subject as you and may have similar career aspirations so you'll have plenty to talk about when you first meet. It's especially important to talk to as many people on your course as possible in the first couple of weeks when friendship groups start to form. You don't want to miss out on finding a fun group! Having friends on your course is great as you always have someone to hang around campus with.

 

If you're heading off to university this Autumn, then make sure to follow these tips. Some of the friends you make at university become some of the best friends you'll have in your life, so make sure you make the effort right from the beginning.

 

Lauren Buck is a Criminology and Psychology graduate, freelance writer, blogger and Etsy store owner. She writes about a variety of topics including student and career advice for Inspiring Interns, which specialises in placing graduates in the best London roles.