University is such an exciting time

You get to study something that you have chosen, and you also get to meet so many new people. Despite your degree being the original reason you are at university; university life is about so much more than your studies.

If you’re moving into halls of residence, you'll find plenty of opportunities to socialise, which will include getting to know your new flatmates! Here are some ways to expand your social circle and improve your wellbeing while at university: 

Hang out in communal areas

Once you’ve moved into halls and have made your room nice and homely, it can be tempting to spend hours alone in your room, playing games and watching Netflix. It’s important to make sure you spend some time in the communal areas, such as the shared kitchen, so you can spend quality time with your housemates. Most student accommodations have social spaces that have facilities such as table tennis and pool tables, so these can be great spaces to hang out in. https://www.coventry.ac.uk/life-on-campus/accommodation/where-can-i-live/

Take up a new sport

Joining a sports team is a great way to meet new people with similar interests, and there is always a whole host of different sports you can try whilst you’re at uni – if one sport isn’t for you, there’s plenty more to try! Why not try your hand at rock climbing or netball – or maybe something slightly quirky, like ultimate frisbee! https://www.yoursu.org/activities/sport/

Get a part time job

This will depend on your workload, as well as any other commitments you might have during term time. But part time jobs are a great way to expand your social circle outside of university, as well as earning a bit of cash at the same time. https://www.coventry.ac.uk/life-on-campus/student-life/working-while-you-study/

Take part in group activities

Whether this be with your housemates, or perhaps with some people from your course, group activities are a great way to get to know people in a relaxed environment. Bowling, paint balling and mini-golf are all great group activities – and the element of competition will certainly test your new friendships! Events like these are often run by accommodation (such as through the Residence Life programme) and other university departments, so it's worth keeping an eye out for these. https://www.coventry.ac.uk/life-on-campus/accommodation/moving-in/res-life/

Join a society

Joining societies are a great way to socialise with like-minded people, as well as discovering interests that you never knew you had. There are literally hundreds of societies to choose from at university, such as chess to hip hop dance, to LGBTQIA+ (and many more!), head down to the freshers’ fair, or check your student union website to see which societies are available at your university. https://www.yoursu.org/activities/societies/

Join a gym

Exercise can have a positive influence on your mental health so it is worth joining a gym whilst studying for your degree. Gyms at universities are built to a high standard, with state of the art equipment on offer for students. This, coupled with the close proximity to both student accommodation and university campus, makes joining the gym at your university the best option to stay fit and healthy. https://www.coventry.ac.uk/life-on-campus/student-life/sport-coventry/

Enjoying a night out with friends

While some students do like to go out partying a lot, play drinking games and sleep until noon, the common student stereotype is often largely a myth. You should never feel like you have to drink if you don't want to!  Anyone who tries to force you into drinking when you're not comfortable with it is not worth being friends with.

If you are planning a night out to explore the local nightlife scene, there are a few things you should think about so you can make the most of your nights out and stay safe, especially if alcohol's involved: 

• Make sure you've charged your phone before you leave
• Put your keys, ID and other valuables somewhere you won't lose them
• If you've brought a bag don't leave it unattended when you're out (you'll probably lose it!)
• Stay with your friends (have a group chat with your mates so you can stay in touch throughout the night)
• Be wary of drink spiking (don't leave your drink unattended or accept one from a stranger)
• Respect others (alcohol can affect your decision-making and perception skills)
• Get home safe (pre book a taxi, don't walk alone: walk in a group)

If going out clubbing is simply not your thing, why not have a go at making cocktails at home, host a dinner party or attend an event being organised by the University?

Discover more about Welcome Week Nightlife in Coventry this September: https://www.yoursu.org/welcome/#Passes

We hope this has eased some nerves for you regarding making new friends and socialising at university. Overall, make sure you have a great time at university and enjoy a healthy work life balance! While you’re planning out your time, make sure you schedule in some well-earned ‘me time’. Making time for the things which make you happy is extremely important.