Ways to make friends at university during the pandemic

Your life at university is a new journey. The opportunities are endless, you're finally studying a course you're passionate about, and you've just stepped into a world of gaining new experiences.

Amongst other things, university life is also about making new friends and forming new, meaningful relationships with the people around you. 

It was hard enough to find someone you could trust and relate to in a ‘normal’ pre-pandemic world. Now, being locked up in your dorm room is causing an even bigger deterrent to a better social life. Listed below are a few (safe) ways to build a friendship circle at university during a pandemic.

1. Start with those around you: As first years (or second…or third), start with the people you live with. In a flat or a house with roommates, in a studio with neighbors- they are your first attempt at making new friends. Order in some doughnuts or a box of pizza and invite them to share. This will break the awkwardness and kickstart a conversation.

2. Join social media communities and groups: Social media is your door to connecting with new friends. Apps such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp have groups that consist of students from your department/ course, same year of joining university, societies, and even your accommodation. Browse through some of these platforms, and you will find some links that can redirect you to these groups. 

3. Try some more apps: Conventional apps such as Snapchat and Instagram are good ways to keep in touch with your friends. That does not mean you can't go out of your way and explore some more. Some of the best apps you can also use to make new friends are:

• Bumble BFF and Hey!- VINA- Safe and trusted apps that help you choose who you would like to befriend based on the data they share. 

• Unifi: An app designed specifically for the students of Sheffield University to meet new friends. It works in a similar way to Facebook- where you share updates, be a part of group chats, receive details regarding accommodation, buy and sell your textbooks.

• Meetup: For those who enjoy engaging in activities to make friends, this is a perfect application for you. 'Meetup' consists of several groups that undertake a specific activity-usually physical. From meeting up on a hike to a virtual Zumba class, the app helps you connect with people from all over the United Kingdom and the city you reside in.

4. Clubs and societies: Speaking of societies, the best way of meeting new people with similar interests as you is to join the university communities. Every meeting is conducted online, so if you're feeling awkward and want to run away- just switch off your Wi-Fi😉. Use these virtual meetings as an opportunity to get to know one another first before meeting face to face.

5. Your course! Don't forget that you can also make friends from your own course. You're going to spend a good three to four years with them, so why not make it count!? Offer to have a Netflix party or a zoom chat with some online games. Remember, everyone wants to make new friends.

Making new friends is not easy and won't just come to you. You need to take the initiative and try out new ways to connect. That being said, don't pressurize yourself, as it is going to take time. Put in your best, and things will work out eventually.

Edited by Victoria Sales