Making friends and building connections

Friendship takes time

It is normal for the first weeks to feel lonely, even when you are surrounded by people. Most close friendships form gradually through repeated contact.

Small steps that help

• Say yes to one new thing each week: a society taster, a flat dinner, a study group.
• Join the Intlgrate community for your university or interests.
• Volunteering connects you with local people beyond campus.
• Keep in touch with home in a way that supports you rather than pulls you away.

If loneliness lasts

If you feel isolated for weeks, talk to your university wellbeing service. You do not need to be in crisis to ask for support.