How to Make Friends at University Without It Being Awkward

Making friends is one of the things new students worry about most before starting university. What if everyone already knows each other? What if you're shy? What if you don't click with your flatmates?

The reality is that almost everyone is asking themselves the exact same questions.

The good news? You don't need to be the loudest person in the room to make great friendships. Sometimes, it starts with something as simple as saying hello.

Remember: Everyone's Starting from Scratch

Unlike school or college, most people arrive at university not knowing anyone.

Even if someone seems really confident, chances are they're just as nervous as you are.

That means introducing yourself isn't weird—it's expected.

A simple "Hi, I'm..." goes a long way.

Leave Your Door Open

If you're moving into halls, one of the easiest ways to meet people is by leaving your door open while you're unpacking (when you're in the room, of course).

People are far more likely to pop their head in and introduce themselves if they know you're around.

It's a small thing, but it's how plenty of university friendships begin.

Say Yes (Within Reason)

You don't have to attend every event or stay out until 3am, but saying yes to opportunities can really help in those first few weeks.

Whether it's grabbing lunch after an induction session, going to a society taster, joining a flat trip to the supermarket or heading to a quiz night, every invitation is another chance to meet people.

You can always leave early if you're tired or it's not your thing.

Join Something You Actually Enjoy

One of the easiest ways to make genuine friendships is by finding people who already share your interests.

Whether that's rugby, photography, gaming, climbing, music, volunteering or something completely different, societies and sports clubs bring together people who already have something in common.

Conversations become much easier when you're talking about something you both enjoy.

Don't Worry If Your Flat Isn't Your Forever Friendship Group

Some people become best friends with their flatmates.

Others simply become good neighbours.

Both are completely normal.

If you don't instantly click with everyone you live with, don't assume that's your only opportunity to make friends. Your course, societies, part-time job and university events all introduce you to new people throughout the year.

Start Small

You don't need a brilliant icebreaker or a funny story prepared.

Try asking simple questions like:

• "What course are you studying?"

• "Where have you moved from?"

• "Have you found where the lecture is yet?"

• "Are you going to the society fair later?"

Most conversations start with ordinary questions—not anything particularly clever.

Be the Person Who Makes Plans

It can feel scary suggesting something first, but chances are other people are waiting for someone else to make the first move.

Try saying:

• "Does anyone fancy grabbing a coffee?"

• "Want to walk over to campus together?"

• "I'm heading to the Students' Union if anyone wants to come."

People are often grateful that someone else took the initiative.

Don't Compare Your Friendship Timeline

Social media can make it seem like everyone has already found their lifelong friendship group by the end of Welcome Week.

In reality, those friendship groups often change.

Some of the strongest friendships are built months into university, not in the first few days.

There's no deadline for finding your people.

Quality Over Quantity

You don't need to know everyone.

Having one or two people you genuinely enjoy spending time with is far more valuable than trying to be friends with hundreds of people.

University isn't a popularity contest—it's about finding people who make you feel comfortable being yourself.

Give It Time

Friendships don't happen overnight.

Some conversations won't go anywhere. Some people won't become close friends. That's completely normal.

Keep putting yourself out there, keep saying hello, and keep showing up.

The more familiar people become, the easier those conversations feel.

Before long, the people who were once strangers could become the friends you make some of your best university memories with.