It’s only natural to feel a little scared about starting university. After all, you will be embracing education on a grander scale and will have to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Entering an alien environment and being introduced to strangers can be intimidating, even for the most outgoing individuals. However, remember that you’re all in this together and that everyone is in the same boat. To make the process as smooth as possible, find out how to become more social at university.
Flee the Nest
Moving away from home during your university years will allow you to connect with many students. You simply need to find the best student accommodation to ensure you have a place to relax and connect with others, as you’ll want to hang out, relax and chat with other freshmen. While fleeing the family nest can be daunting, it can provide you with more independence and social freedom. It will also prepare you for adult life after university.
Realize Everyone is Just as Scared
Everyone will be in the same boat when starting university, which is why you shouldn’t be afraid to push yourself outside of your comfort zone. Knock on people’s dorm rooms and introduce yourself, sit next to people during a lecture, and say hello to students you don’t know. You can guarantee they will be just as uncomfortable as you when starting university, so they’ll appreciate you reaching out to them. That simple ‘hello’ could lead to a life-long friendship.
Put Down Your Cell Phone
Most young people are practically glued to their cell phones, which they may cling to a little more tightly for familiarity in such an unfamiliar situation and setting. While you might want to seek comfort from family members or friends back home when you first start university, it could be a smart idea to put the cell phone down. This will make you appear to be more approachable and friendly to other students, who will be more likely to start a conversation with you. Disconnect, you’ll become instantly more inviting.
You Don’t Have to Be Friends with Everyone
Aim to make good friends during university, and don’t be afraid to walk away from people who you don’t click with or could potentially be a bad influence. If you don’t want to drink at university, you don’t have to – and don’t allow another freshman to influence your decision. Connect with like-minded people who will make your college years more enjoyable, and distance yourself from people who make you feel uncomfortable.
Secure a Part-Time Job
A part-time job will not only provide you with a source of income, but it may also help you to expand your social circle. Ask co-workers to go for a coffee or drink after a shift, and attend employee events or parties to let your hair down and socialize with others. However, make sure it doesn’t impact your grades.
Make Time for Fun
Hard work and ambition are often the key to success; however, it’s important not to spend day after day with your head buried in a textbook. Occasionally let your hair down to have a little fun and connect with others. Stop saying no to your dorm or class mates, as they will eventually stop asking you to events and parties, which could make you feel lonely during your university years.