A survey by Chegg.org, a non-profit arm of the education company known as Chegg, found that a majority (53%) of South African students say they have trouble meeting new people/making friends. But, with the right strategies, you can beat this statistic and potentially build life-lasting bonds.
Whether you’re an introvert who prefers quiet nights in or a social butterfly ready to flutter into every event, here are some foolproof strategies to help you make friends during your first year.
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Socialise Through Student Clubs and Societies
Joining a club or society is like diving into a pool of potential friends who share your interests. Whether you’re passionate about debating, love playing soccer, or want to volunteer for a cause, there’s likely a group for it.
Social Clubs and Organisations on Campus
Universities in South Africa have a host of clubs and societies that you can choose from. These include sports teams, hobby clubs, and groups for academics and culture. Joining these groups is a great way to meet new people and find friends.
Take the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) as an example. The university has a range of societies and organisations you can join, falling within the below categories:
- Political Cluster: These are groups that follow political philosophies like socialism or liberalism. They often engage in activism through student governance and work with political organisations.
- Academic Cluster: This cluster includes societies that help students with their studies. They offer tutoring, study sessions, and activities to help students relax and de-stress.
- Business Cluster: These groups work with entrepreneurial companies and business organisations. They focus on financial literacy and provide guidance in business-related areas.
- Social Cluster: Clubs in this cluster aim to bring students together in a safe and welcoming environment. They often focus on community outreach or activities that promote environmental sustainability.
- Cultural Cluster: These societies are dedicated to exploring and educating about different cultures on campus and beyond. They are usually centred around specific cultural, ethnic, or tribal groups.
- Religious Cluster: This cluster includes all faith-based groups on campus and focuses on the spiritual well-being of students.
Pro tip: Don’t just sign up for everything during orientation week. While the allure of free pizza and colourful flyers is strong, focus on a few groups that genuinely interest you. This way, you’re more likely to meet people with whom you’ll actually click. Plus, you won’t have to awkwardly avoid eye contact with the “Anime Appreciation Society” president in the hallway after missing every meeting.
Break the Ice at Orientation and Welcome Events
Orientation week is like the ultimate icebreaker challenge, designed to ease you into university life and introduce you to fellow students. It’s a perfect opportunity to meet people who are just as lost (literally and figuratively) as you are.
From scavenger hunts to awkward “get-to-know-you” games, these events might feel a bit cringeworthy, but they serve a purpose. You’re all in the same boat, paddling into the unknown.
Take part, ask questions, and share a bit about yourself. Soon, you’ll have a group of friends to support you at university.
So, embrace the awkwardness, laugh at the cheesy icebreakers, and don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the person next to you. Remember, everyone is looking to make friends, even if they’re not saying it out loud.
Collaborate Through Group Projects and Study Groups
Ah, group projects—the bane of every student’s existence. While they might be notorious for causing stress and occasionally requiring the patience of a saint, they are also fantastic for meeting new people. Sharing the burden of a project deadline can bond you quicker than you’d think.
Forming or joining study groups can also connect you with students who share your academic interests. It’s a chance to support each other in your studies and socialise at the same time.
In fact, according to a recent study, working together in peer groups “contribute to developing student leadership roles,” allowing students to develop their skills, make new friends and build confidence when it comes to public speaking.
Peer assessment is a key part of group work, where members review each other’s efforts. Activities like icebreakers and team-building help groups work better together. Setting rules for group projects is common, often through contracts signed by everyone.
Being active in group projects and study groups can boost your grades and help you make friends. These experiences are a strong way to start new friendships and grow your social circle at university.
Make the Most of Your Living Arrangements
Whether you’re in a dorm, student residence, or off-campus housing, your living situation is ripe with opportunities to make friends. Your roommates and neighbours are likely in the same boat as you—away from home, possibly for the first time, and looking for connections.
Your living arrangements at university are key to making new friends. Start by introducing yourself to your roommates or other residents in your housing. Try to spend time getting to know them better.
Initiate a roommate movie night or a shared meal. There’s something about sharing food that breaks down barriers (perhaps it’s the universal love of pizza). If you’re living in a dorm, don’t be a stranger. Leave your door open when you’re around (and feel comfortable doing so), and you might just find yourself joining an impromptu hallway gathering.
Being friendly with your roommates and those you live close to makes you feel more at home. It lays a strong base for making friends at university.
Living in student accommodation also teaches you about independence and responsibility. You learn to manage your space, study well, and handle social life. With CCTV, biometric access, and staff on site, you’re safe and secure.
So, take advantage of your university housing by connecting with your roommates and others. It’s a great way to make friends and enjoy your time at university.
Attend Campus Events and Activities
Campus events are the lifeblood of university social life. From concerts and sports games to guest lectures and festivals, these events are not only a break from studying but also a prime opportunity to mingle.
Check your university’s event calendar and mark a few that catch your eye. Whether it’s a themed party or a cultural festival, these events are designed to bring students together. Attend with an open mind, and don’t be afraid to go solo if your friends aren’t interested. Sometimes, the best way to make new friends is to step out of your comfort zone and engage with others in a shared activity.
Tips for Successful Friend-Making
Making friends as an adult is never easy, and comes with a lot of social hang-ups that may leave you feeling awkward and frustrated. Don’t worry though, we’ve got some tips to help get you through it:
- Be yourself: It sounds cliché, but authenticity is key. You want friends who like you for who you are, not who you pretend to be. So, ditch the façade and embrace your quirks.
- Be open-minded: University is a melting pot of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. Keep an open mind and be willing to engage with people who might be different from you.
- Follow up: If you click with someone, don’t hesitate to suggest grabbing coffee or studying together. Building friendships requires a bit of effort and follow-through.
- Stay positive: Not every attempt to make friends will be successful, and that’s okay. Stay positive and persistent; the right connections will come.
- Use social media: While face-to-face interactions are invaluable, don’t underestimate the power of social media. Join class groups, club pages, and use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook or Twitter to keep in touch.
Get Funding for Your Studies with Fundi
Making friends is just one of the many challenges you’ll face as a first-year student. Another common concern is funding your studies and acquiring the necessary tools for your studies. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution to help with this.
Fundi offers funding to students who might otherwise struggle to afford the cost of studying. With Fundi’s support, you can get the materials for your studies without the financial strain.
Don’t wait! Check out the Fundi Loan Calculator today to see if you qualify for a Fundi study loan and start your academic journey with confidence!
