At Warwick, there are so many ways to meet new people. It is important to not put pressure on yourself to connect with others instantly. Building genuine, long-lasting friendships takes time - and that's completely normal.
Why connections matter: student perspectives
It is worth putting yourself out there and trying different things. Everyone is in the same boat! According to fellow students...
“You’ll feel more settled; friendships help you feel at home quicker!
“You’ll enjoy uni life more, shared experiences make lasting memories”
“Having people to connect with can improve your academic performance - study buddies really help”
“It boosts your wellbeing, reducing loneliness and stress”
"Creating connections can make a huge difference - to your studies, wellbeing and overall experience."
Connecting with students in your department
Not sure where to start? There are so many ways to meet and connect with students in your department.
It sounds simple, but asking “how are you finding your course so far?” or “have you joined any societies or clubs yet?” can be a powerful way to break the ice. Starting a conversation in a lecture hall or before the start of a seminar could be the beginning of a great friendship.
The Wellbeing and Student Support team offers some helpful advice, more conversation starters and resources.
Your department will host lots of informal and relaxed events throughout the year. These events are an opportunity to meet and connect with other students, both from your year and different year groups.
You'll find out what's happening through your department's newsletters, webpage and noticeboards. If you're unsure, contact your department's Director of Student Experience (DSEP). Remember, you can also suggest ideas for events for them to organise!
Many courses have a related academic society, such as the Physics Society or the Classics Society. If you join, you can get involved in academic support, peer mentoring, social events, peer mentoring and networking opportunities. Being part of an academic society can really enhance your studies and help you connect with others who share your interests.
Many courses require group work as part of your studies. It not just about the task; it's a chance to connect and collaborate with course mates more closely. Group work helps you meet people you might not have talked to before and can lead to new friendships.
Lot of departments and societies run student peer mentoring schemes to help you succeed and connect with other students - your department will let you know what is available.
Peer mentoring gives you the opportunity to meet students from other year groups, offering advice, guidance and top-tips based on their experience. Student 'peer mentors' do this because they genuinely want to support other students; it can make a huge difference!
Other ways you can meet people:
Welcome Week is a week long programme of activity for new undergraduate and post graduate students to help you get settled into life at Warwick.
You'll have the chance to explore the campus, meet staff and fellow students in your department and start making friends. For everything you need, including - events details, campus maps, top tips and access your Welcome Week timetable - visit the Welcome Week webpage.
Together at Warwick brings students together to celebrate culture, creativity, and community. It’s your space to connect, create, and be part of something bigger. Your one stop shop for events, activities and community on campus. There are so many events to get involved with!
Joining a sports club is a great way to meet students outside of your department. You don't need any prior experience sport to get involved - many students try completely new sports like mountaineering, fencing, Latin and ballroom dancing, or trampolining!
Get involved, give back and make a difference. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, build your skills and grow you network.
The Student Opportunity Team can help you to find the perfect role for you; each opportunity has different levels of commitment so if you can only commit for a few hours or want to volunteer on a weekly basis then we're sure you’ll find something that is just right.
A welcoming space for all - whether you’re religious or non-religious. Drop in to relax, study, attend events or chat with others. It is a place to reflect and feel a part of a community.
Student Advice from Alex, President of Autism at Warwick
"As an autistic person, I always felt that making friends would be harder for me than others. The first society I joined was Autism at Warwick, a group run by and for autistic students.
I was nervous at first, but after attending a few events, I felt much more relaxed. Everyone was so welcoming. The confidence I gained encouraged me to join more societies halfway through the year.
Now, I am fully involved and even became President of Autism at Warwick. While I've made friends through my joint degree, some of my closest friendships started in societies.
If you’re hesitant about joining a society, I really encourage you to give it a try – just one social could make all the difference. You’ll be thankful you did!”
Advice from Wellbeing and Student Support
Warwick’s Wellbeing and Student Support team offers some helpful advice, conversation starters and resources.
