Making friends in a new city can be tough, especially when you’re a student and don’t have work or other commitments to help you meet people. London is a massive city with plenty of opportunities for socialising, but it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together our top 14 tips for making friends in London as a student!
- Is London Student Friendly?
- 14 Ways To Make Friends In London As a Student
- 1) Get Involved In Student Societies and Clubs
- 2) Attend University Events, Seminars and Socials
- 3) Go To Student Nightlife Events
- 4) Get Involved In Volunteering
- 5) Join a Sports Team
- 6) Go To The Gym
- 7) Explore Your Local Area In London
- 8) Get Involved In Student Politics and Campaigning Groups
- 9) Use Social Media
- 10) Attend Meetups
- 11) Work Part-Time
- 12) Go Out To The Local Pub For Drinks
- 13) Attend Concerts or Festivals
- 14) Get Involved In Student Life
- Conclusion
Is London Student Friendly?
As a student, you’ll find that London is an incredibly diverse and exciting city to live in. There’s so much to see and do, and you’ll never find yourself bored or without something new to explore.
The city is also extremely welcoming to students, with plenty of discounts and opportunities available. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to study, socialise or simply relax, London has everything you need.
14 Ways To Make Friends In London As a Student
It can be tough to make friends in London as a student. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Here are 14 of the best tips on how to make friends in London as a student:
1) Get Involved In Student Societies and Clubs
Joining student societies and clubs is a great way to meet people with similar interests to you.
It’s also a great way to get involved in university life and make the most of your time at university. There are tons of different societies and clubs out there, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Take a look at Kingston university, for example. They offer over 90 societies and clubs for you to join.
You can even create your own if you want!
2) Attend University Events, Seminars and Socials
University events and socials are another great way to meet new people with the same interests. They’re also a lot of fun, so they’re definitely worth attending. There are usually tons of different events and socials happening on campus, so be sure to check out what’s going on and see what takes your fancy.
It could also be worth attending open days and course induction days where the university shows you around the campus. You will be with other students considering the university and will be able to socialise with them before you even step into university.
3) Go To Student Nightlife Events
Student nightlife events are a great way to let off some steam and have a good time. They’re also an excellent opportunity to meet new people and find your best friends for life.
There are usually tons of different student nightlife events happening around London, so be sure to check out what’s going on and see what takes your fancy.
Freshers week is a great opportunity to meet people on your course, at your halls of residence or in your student union. During the first few weeks of term, there are also loads of social events going on so it’s a great time to explore what’s available and get stuck in.
Check out The Roxy, Fabric and Bar Rumba for one of the best nightclubs for students in London.
4) Get Involved In Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and do some good simultaneously. There are tons of different volunteering opportunities available, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Volunteering is also a great way to get experience in different fields and make a difference in your community.
Check out the University of Westminster or Royal Voluntary Service for volunteering opportunities
5) Join a Sports Team
Joining a sports team is great for making new friends and staying fit and active. It’s also a great way to get involved in university life. There are usually tons of different sports teams you can join, so be sure to check out what’s available and see what takes your fancy.
6) Go To The Gym
Going to the gym is a great way to stay fit and healthy. It’s also a great place to meet new people and meet up at exercise class. If you’re not sure what kind of exercise you want to do, there are usually tons of different classes available that you can try out.
Classes are also a great way to meet new people and have some fun while you’re at it.
Check out Pure Gym and The Gym Group for student discounts!
Take a look at our full guide on How To Save Money As a Student
7) Explore Your Local Area In London
Exploring your local area is a great way to find out what central London has to offer. It’s also a great opportunity to meet new people. There are usually tons of different things to see and do in London, so be sure to check out what’s on and see what takes your fancy.
When you’re exploring, be sure to keep an eye out for any events or activities that look interesting and maybe spend some time in the communal area to have some small talk.
You never know, you might just make some new friends along the way!
London is a big city, but it can be tough to make friends as a student but you are not the only one in the same boat.
8) Get Involved In Student Politics and Campaigning Groups
If you’re interested in student politics, getting involved is a great way to meet new like-minded people and make a difference. There are usually tons of different student political groups and organisations you can join, so be sure to check out what’s available and see what takes your fancy.
Student politics is a great way to get your voice heard and make a difference on campus.
It’s also an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded people and make some new friends.
9) Use Social Media
Social media is a great way to stay connected with your friends and family. It’s also a great way to meet new people with online platforms. Joining university groups and university course’s Facebook pages can be one of the most likely places to find friends, be sure to follow some pages and groups that interest you.
This will help you connect with people who share your interests and make it easier for you to start conversations with them.
Don’t be afraid to reach out and message people if you see something that interests you.
Most people are happy to chat and make new friends!
10) Attend Meetups
Attending meetups is a great way to meet new people who share your interests. There are usually tons of different meetups happening around London, so be sure to check out what’s on and see what takes your fancy.
Meetups are also a great opportunity to learn new things and make friends from all over the world.
Check out the website Meetups for all of the events taking place in around London
11) Work Part-Time
Working part-time is a great way to meet new people and earn some extra money. It’s also a great way to get experience in different fields. There are usually tons of different part-time jobs available, so be sure to check out what’s on and see what takes your fancy.
Work colleagues can easily become best friends in a heartbeat!
You should start your search early before you start university. The sooner you start looking, the better your chances of finding a job that suits your needs and schedule. Make sure to put effort into your CV and cover letter, as first impressions are important to potential employers. Don’t be afraid to apply for jobs that are out of your comfort zone, and you never know what you might end up enjoying.
University schedules can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to find a job that can work around your ever-changing schedule. Don’t be afraid to approach employers directly and inquire about part-time positions. Many times they’re happy to accommodate university students.
12) Go Out To The Local Pub For Drinks
This is one of the best ways to meet new people in London as a student. The local pub is always full of students, and you can easily start up a conversation with someone. Invite your coursemates and students you live with for a memorable time
It’s totally normal to feel anxious about large gatherings, alcohol is a great way to build confidence and find genuine friendships that will last a lifetime.
Check out the local university bars and pubs in your area and find out the ones with the best student deals to save you money.
13) Attend Concerts or Festivals
Attending concerts or festivals is a great way to meet new people and have some fun. It’s also a great opportunity to see your favourite bands or artists in person. There are usually tons of different concerts and festivals happening around London, so be sure to check out what’s on and see what takes your fancy.
When you’re attending a concert or festival, be sure to keep an eye out for any meetups that might be happening.
14) Get Involved In Student Life
Studying at University and living in halls is already a head start to meeting friends for life. You will be living and studying with other students who are also looking to find others to enjoy their experiences with.
If you are afraid that you will be the only international student or not as social as others, don’t worry, there are plenty of other students in the same situation as you. University is a fabulous opportunity to build relationships and bonds for the rest of your life!
University life is where you learn the skills required for the future and build your confidence. Being social and meeting new friends is a great skill to have and one that you will definitely need in the future.
Conclusion
in conclusion, making friends in London as a student is not as difficult as it may seem at first. There are many ways to meet people, and with a little effort, you can easily find yourself surrounded by new friends in no time. So get out there and start meeting new people! You never know who you might meet.
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