Hereās the lowdown on how to make the most of your uni experience and turn those first-year jitters into lasting friendships and unforgettable momentsā¦
Starting uni isn’t just about studying 24/7. It’s about making friends, finding your groove, and having an amazing time.
And whilst balancing your studies with a super social life might seem tricky, don’t stress – you’re in the right place!
Here’s the lowdown on how to make the most of your uni experience and turn those first-year jitters into lasting friendships and unforgettable moments…
1. Get Involved Early
The sooner you can dive into uni life, the better. Get on down to our Welcome Fair, try to attend some orientation events, and check out our Welcome Week activities.
These are prime opportunities to meet people and find groups that match your interests! Whether it’s a sports team, a cultural club, or a hobby-based society, getting involved early will help you connect with like-minded peers.
And speaking of…
2. Join Clubs and Societies
Our clubs and societies are a fantastic way to meet new, like-minded people and pursue your passions.
Again, the Welcome Fair will be your best friend, where we’ll have nearly 50 clubs and societies there to connect with!
Pick a few groups to join that excite you – we’d recommend a mix of existing hobbies you have and some totally new experiences! From academic societies to creative clubs, there’s something for everyone.
Joining these groups will not only enhance your university experience but will also be a super easy way to make friends!
3. Be Open to New Experiences
University is the PERFECT time to step out of your comfort zone. Be open to trying new activities, attending events, and meeting people from different backgrounds!
Whether it’s participating in a dance class, attending a lecture on a new topic, or trying a new sport, embracing new experiences can lead to exciting social opportunities.
4. Attend Campus Events
Keep an eye on your SU’s event listings – we’ll be posting loads on our website and on our socials!
From speedfriending to free sports sessions, these are all great ways to socialise! Attending these events can get you connected with other students and discover activities that interest you!
5. Make Use of Social Media
We post our most important updates on socials, so make sure you’re following our channels (@SalfordSU) and put notifications on to stay updated!
6. Balance Your Time
A thriving social life doesn’t mean neglecting your studies. Make sure you can find the right balance between your academic workload and social activities.
Prioritising your tasks should make time for relaxation and fun, allowing you to properly enjoy the social side of university life!
7. Connect with Your Roommates and Neighbours
Your hallmates and neighbours are often your first friends at university!
To get to know each other, why not organize some movie nights, cooking sessions, drinks at Atmosphere, or study groups with them?
8. Seek Out Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering can be a super rewarding way to meet new people and give back to the community, and we have loads of volunteering opportunities available through your SU!
Why not check some out?
9. Be Proactive and Friendly
Don’t wait for others to make the first move! Be proactive in starting conversations and inviting others to join activities. A friendly attitude and a willingness to engage with new people will make it easier to form lasting friendships.
Also, remember than every first year is in the same boat, so it’s highly likely that they are feeling the same emotions as you are, too!
And finally…
10. Stay Positive and Resilient
Building a thriving social life takes time. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t happen immediately!
Stay positive, keep an open mind, and be patient. There’ll be loads of events and opportunities across the year to get to know people at your SU!