Whether it be video games, card games or board games, everyone loves a games night: it’s a great way to connect everyone in your flat. If you happen to be living with any international students, this is also a good opportunity to share games from different cultures. When I was getting to know my own flatmates, I found that funny, high intensity games such as Mario Kart are an easy way to break the ice. Chaotic racing tournaments in particular are guaranteed to help break down some awkward barriers and get everyone talking and, in some cases, screaming. What’s better is that you can even implement alcohol as a forfeit, which is bound to raise the steaks and create a competitive vibe!
As students, we are universally defined by our unique diet of pasta, rice and noodles. Forget all that and consider planning a full-blown meal for your flatmates
As students, we are universally defined by our unique diet of pasta, rice and noodles. Forget all that and consider planning a full-blown meal for your flatmates. Try asking them what their favourite foods are and cook something that represents everyones tastes (just be sure you check for any dietary requirements). Even if you think you might be the world’s worst cook, your flatmates will still appreciate that you went out of your way to plan a fun evening for them. Unless you give them food poisoning.
Similarly to a games night, a good movie night is a no-brainer for bonding with new folks. Getting your flatmates together around a big TV with plenty of snacks is a great way to chill out and learn to get comfortable in each other’s company. Movie-watching can be just as fulfilling as having a conversation and can always make for intriguing discussion afterwards. If not, a decent horror movie is always sure to get the adrenaline pumping.
If everyone puts a few quid in, there’s a newfound incentive to win
Quiz nights defined the first few months of lockdown and for good reason; they are always a great laugh and a sure-fire way to get all of your friends involved. Of course, you can design questions around anything from general knowledge to movie trivia. Consider designing questions around yourself and your new flatmates: it's a pretty fun way to break formalities plus, you will all learn more about each other while playing. Creating a prize pot is also a good idea: if everyone puts a few quid in, there’s a newfound incentive to win, which will no doubt lead to some friendly but fierce competition between everyone!
Feature Image: Pixabay @Pexel