Why it’s OK not to immediately make friends at University

Moving away from home to university is arguably one of the biggest transitions you’ll make in your life. From a comforting routine you’ve always known, to a new city, it’s a huge jump and should be treated as such. There’s lots of pressure to go out, to meet new people and immediately start thriving, but the truth is it’s not as simple as this, despite what you may see online as your old school mates post about their University experience. 

There’s a lot of adjusting to do, and you have to allow yourself to settle in. This is why it’s okay not to immediately make friends at University. This is the start of living independently, making your own meals, looking after your own space, not to mention the entire new degree that you’ve just taken on. This can be a lot to deal with, and you will make the transition, but it’s important to remember that this will look different for everyone. It might take you a while to build your confidence enough to socialise, and that’s okay. You may not have much in common with the people you’re put in a flat with, and this is also okay. In time, you’ll find your people, whether that be at a social, or in a lecture or seminar, or even through social media. 

While you come to University on your own, there is endless opportunity to make new friends, with thousands of people from all across the country, even the world, who are all in the same boat as you. Sooner or later, you’ll find people to bond with, there’s absolutely no need to find all your future friends the moment you move in. Everybody moves at their own pace, and it’s okay if you need time to settle in or  just need to look a bit further, you’ll be just fine.