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Making friends is an important part of the university experience. It helps you to settle in, feel more comfortable and make the most of your time here. It can also be a great way to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures, and learn more about life in the UK.

There are lots of ways to make friends at university, from joining student societies to taking part in sports teams or simply meeting people in your halls of residence.

Top tips to make friends in the UK:

1. Join a society or club

One great way to meet like-minded people and make friends at university is to join a society or club. There are usually lots of different societies to choose from, so you’re bound to find one that interests you. From Harry Potter fan clubs to dance societies and everything in between, there’s something for everyone.

2. Get involved in student media

If you’re interested in writing, photography, or filmmaking, then getting involved in student media is a great way to make friends and develop your skills at the same time. Student newspapers and radio stations are always on the lookout for new talent, so it’s a great way to get your foot in the door of the media industry.

3. Play sport

Playing sports is another great way to make friends at university. There are usually lots of different sports teams you can join, from football and rugby to netball and hockey. It’s a great way to stay fit and healthy, and you’re sure to make some great friends along the way.

4. Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and meet new people. There are usually lots of different volunteering opportunities available, from working in a local charity shop to helping out at community events. It’s a great way to make a difference and meet new people at the same time.

5. Meet people in your halls of residence

Your halls of residence are a great place to meet new people. There will usually be social events organised by your hall staff, so make sure you go along to them. You’re also likely to have people from all over the world living in your halls, so it’s a great way to learn about new cultures and make friends from all over the globe.

6. Attend university events

There are usually lots of different events taking place at university, from talks and lectures to concerts and parties. Attending these events is a great way to meet new people and find out more about what’s going on at your university.

7. Go on a study abroad programme

Studying abroad is a great way to make friends from all over the world. You’ll get to experience a new culture, learn a new language, and make some lifelong friends along the way. It’s an experience you’re sure to never forget.

8. Use social media

Social media is a great way to keep in touch with your friends and family back home, but it can also be a great way to meet new people. There are usually lots of different student groups on social media where you can chat to people with similar interests. It’s a great way to make friends from all over the world.

9. Join a student organisation

There are usually lots of different student organisations you can join, from cultural societies to political groups. It’s a great way to meet new people and get involved in the university community.

10. Get a part-time job

Getting a part-time job is a great way to meet new people and earn some extra money. There are usually lots of different jobs available on campus, so it’s worth taking a look to see what’s available. It’s also a great way to gain some work experience and boost your CV.

Making friends as an international student in the UK doesn’t have to be difficult. There are lots of different ways to meet new people, from joining a society or club to attending university events. Just get out there and start meeting new people – you’re sure to make some great friends in no time.

11. Eat together

One of the best ways to get to know people is over food! Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite in the canteen or enjoying a leisurely meal, eating together is a great way to chat and bond.

12. Study together:

Studying can be more fun when you do it with friends. Why not form a study group and help each other out? You can also use this time to get to know each other better.

13. Travel together:

If you’re planning on travelling during your time in the UK, why not do it with friends? This is a great way to explore new places and create lasting memories.

14. Go to events together:

There’s always something going on in the UK, so make the most of it! From music festivals to art galleries, there’s plenty to see and do. Going with friends will make it all the more enjoyable.

15. Go out clubbing:

If you’re looking for a night out with a difference, why not go clubbing? This is a great way to let your hair down and meet new people. Just remember to stay safe!

16. Take up a new hobby:

Trying something new is a great way to meet new people. There are lots of different hobbies to choose from, so find something that interests you and give it a go.

17. Go on a night out:

Nights out are always more fun with friends! Whether you’re going to the pub or hitting the town, make sure you enjoy yourself and let your hair down.

18. Get involved in your student union:

Most universities will have a student union that organises social events and activities. This is a great way to get involved in university life and meet new people.

5 Challenges to making new friends as an international student

As an international student, making friends can be a daunting task. You may feel like you don’t quite fit in, or that you’re the only one who doesn’t quite understand what’s going on. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! Here are five challenges to making new friends as an international student, and how to overcome them.

1. The language barrier:

One of the biggest challenges to making new friends as an international student is the language barrier. If you’re not fluent in the local language, it can be difficult to communicate with people and make friends. However, there are a few things you can do to overcome this challenge. First, try to find friends who speak your native language. This way, you’ll be able to communicate more easily and make deeper connections. Secondly, try to learn some key phrases in the local language. This will show people that you’re interested in their culture and that you’re willing to make an effort to communicate with them. Finally, don’t be afraid to use body language and gestures when communicating with people. Sometimes, these can be just as effective (if not more so) than words.

2. The culture barrier:

Another challenge to making new friends as an international student is the culture barrier. If you come from a different culture, you may not be used to the local customs and norms. This can make it difficult to connect with people and make friends. However, there are a few things you can do to overcome this challenge. First, try to learn about the local culture before you arrive. This way, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect and you’ll be able to avoid any cultural misunderstandings. Secondly, don’t be afraid to share your own culture with people. This can be a great way to bond with people and make lasting friendships. Finally, remember that everyone is different and that not everyone will share the same cultural background as you. Don’t let this stop you from making friends – just be open-minded and respect people’s differences.

3. The social anxiety:

Another common challenge to making new friends as an international student is social anxiety. This can make it difficult to approach people and start conversations. However, there are a few things you can do to overcome this challenge. First, try to remember that everyone is in the same boat as you – they’re all looking for friends too! This can help to ease your nerves and make it feel less daunting to approach someone. Secondly, try to find social events or activities that interest you. This way, you’ll already have something in common with the people you meet and it’ll be easier to start a conversation. Finally, don’t be afraid to be yourself! The more genuine and authentic you are, the more likely it is that you’ll make lasting friendships.

4. The shyness:

Another challenge that international students often face is shyness. This can make it difficult to put yourself out there and meet new people. However, there are a few things you can do to overcome this challenge. First, try to remember that everyone feels shy sometimes – even the most confident people have their moments of doubt. Secondly, try to take small steps outside of your comfort zone. For example, instead of going to a big party, try attending a smaller gathering or meeting new people one-on-one. This way, you’ll slowly start to build your confidence and it’ll be easier to make friends. Finally, don’t be afraid to use online platforms to meet people. There are lots of great websites and apps that can help you connect with people from all over the world.

5. The homesickness:

Finally, another common challenge for international students is homesickness. This can make it difficult to focus on making new friends when all you can think about is home. However, there are a few things you can do to overcome this challenge. First, try to stay busy and occupied – the more you focus on other things, the less you’ll think about home. Secondly, try to reach out to your friends and family back home. This can help to ease your homesickness and make you feel more connected to the people you love. Finally, don’t be afraid to talk about your homesickness with other people. There’s a good chance that they’re feeling the same way, and talking about it can help to make the transition easier for both of you.

Making new friends as an international student can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible! Just remember to be patient, open-minded, and genuine, and you’ll be sure to find lasting friendships in no time.

Conclusion

And there you have it! If you follow these simple tips, you’ll be making friends as an international student in no time. Just remember to be yourself, put yourself out there, and be patient – soon enough, you’ll have a whole new group of friends to enjoy your time in the UK with.

Have any other tips on how to make friends as an international student? Share them in the comments below!

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Minoas graduated with a Merit upon studying the full-time MPA Public Administration – International Development degree (MPA-ID) at the University of York. He is currently working as a freelance EU affairs consultant in Belgium.
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