How to make friends in Lancaster student accommodation

By Maggie Wilkinson

It is a momentous occasion when you say goodbye to your loved ones, and you realise that you are alone; you are in a strange new environment which is going to bring massive challenges, yet you probably don’t know anyone or have any friends…

You can take comfort that everyone else is in the same position, and they’re going to find it really hard at times, just like you.

You’re going to be at university for at least three years; the people you interact with and make friends with will share so much growth with you, that, hopefully, you will make some wonderful bonds and memories to take forward with you.

Here are a few ideas to consider, to get the ball rolling.

Moving in day

Prop your door open in your Lancaster student accommodation as an invitation; others will find it easy to greet you and chat through an open door. A closed door is hard to knock on.

Breaks

Stop for breaks and drift towards the kitchen! Everyone finds it easier to chat if there’s the busyness of making some tea or coffee, pottering about offering a biscuit; in any social situation, the sharing of a drink and a nibble is a good way to break the ice.

Help

Lend a hand if you’re free. Everyone arrives at their Lancaster housing student at different times, so when you’re all done and dusted, someone else will be struggling with heavy boxes etc, and they’ll be grateful for some help.

Cooking

Everywhere in the world, the sharing of food, a meal especially, brings people together in a positive way. In a few days when you have settled a bit, you might like to suggest pooling resources and cooking together a couple of nights a week; not everyone will want to join in, but some will. 

If you arrive at Lancaster university with a couple of good, staple recipes under your belt, you will soon find friends. Make something like lasagne, and invite people to share with you, and they’ll love it and hopefully will reciprocate later. Don’t forget to include a couple of vegetarian and vegan options, because people eat very varied diets. You could either work together, shopping and cooking and clearing away, or take turns to host and make the meal, or a bit of both. Sharing tasks builds strong, comfy relationships, and fact: students are always hungry!

Games Night

Having something sociable to look forward to each week, even one event like a games night in, can be very reassuring; many students struggle with loneliness initially, so this could be a fun and mutually supportive thing to organise. Some beers, some crisps and nibbles, or some wine will make it even more tempting.

Staying positive

People are drawn to open smiles and kindness. So, even if you don’t feel terribly confident or very chirpy, try to put on a smile and a positive outlook, and people will be drawn to your warmth. Asking questions gets conversations going, and every friendship starts with a conversation.

Be patient with yourself; friends will pop up for you, just like you will pop up for them.

And don’t forget to phone home! Friends and family are still there and will be thinking of you and glad to hear your news. A chat with them will always give you the affirmation and confidence to get out there, you will realise you’re really all right.