Social
For many students making new friends, partying, and exploring your new town or city is an important part of the higher education experience. However, this may be easier for some than others. Whether you are shy, suffer from anxiety or are generally not that out-going, making new friends at when in higher education can be intimidating or difficult to do.
For others, socialising can be difficult as they are not sure where they fit in. You may not be sure what social group you belong to or what you are even interested in. Having left home for the first time, many students find themselves questioning things they had never questioned before. It could be that you start to question your culture, background, religion, faith, sexuality or even parts of your own personality. Many students will use their time in higher education to develop as a person as well as academically. Others may ‘reinvent’ themselves as someone completely different.
Whatever you choose to do, higher education is a chance to meet a wide range of people. Some will have the same ethnicity, religion, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and general interests as you. Others will not. This can either be a challenge or a chance to broaden your views and opinions.
KNow before you go
Hacks for SOCIALISING
When you first arrive in higher education, you may have classmates who are similar to you or are very different. Some will have the same religion, belief system, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and general interests as you. Others will not. Many will be trying to work these things and deciding who they are and what they want.
Embracing Differences
No matter who is in your class, you are all sharing the same experiences. Being open and accepting of everyone’s differences can be a great way of making friends with people you would never have expected.
Get Out There
All universities and most colleges will have a student’s union and with this comes clubs and societies that cater for a wide range of interests: from football, athletics and martial arts to arts, culture and languages and from politics, religion and faith to gaming, charity and environmental groups. And if there is not a club or society to reflect your interests, you can always set up your own!
Living Arrangements
There are different options for where you live when you start higher education. If you are going to university close to home or at a local college, you may choose to live at home. This can save money and be the more comfortable option. However, this is not always an option. If you have to live away from home you can either live in university halls of residence or private rented accommodation which are great ways to make new friends as well as learn to be more independent.
Useful Sites to Learn More
Save the Student
The Times Higher Education
The Skill Collective