Understandably, making friends is one of the biggest worries for new students! It’s an exciting time change but everything and everyone being new can be quite daunting. Starting university is a great opportunity to meet other students, share your experience with like-minded people and build new friendships. Check out some of the ways you can get involved and get to know people!
The BIG Welcome
Kickstart your university journey with unforgettable events with The Big Welcome Programme 2025. This 5-week programme is perfect to introduce you to everything the Students’ Union has to offer! From our Freebie Fair full of deals, discounts and freebies to our volunteering demos and welfare drop ins, there’s something going on every day to help you meet new people, get involved with your SU and start your university journey off right.
Sports & Clubs Fair
Tuesday 16 September, Sport and Fitness Centre, 11:00-16:00 (10:00-11:00 Quiet Hour)
This will include sports clubs, sports societies and loads of other ways to get involved with sports whilst at University, both competitively and socially.
Societies & Volunteering Fair
Wednesday 17 September, Sport and Fitness Centre, 11:00-16:00 (10:00-11:00 Quiet Hour)
This will include a large portion of our student-run societies, as well as the Union's volunteering projects.
Give It A Go activities
Get involved in free or discounted activities and taster sessions through the Give It A Go programme.
There are also trips further afield throughout the year with tour partners, Lundgren Tours. Keep an eye out on the Students’ Union’s events calendar.
Sport and Fitness free trial
From Monday 15 September to Sunday 28 September, enjoy free access to our Sport and Fitness facilities! Whether you love the gym, high-energy fitness classes, playing sport on our indoor courts or outdoor pitches or joining a sports team for weekly leagues, visit the Sport and Fitness Centre to discover more.
Peer Mentor
For new undergraduate students, your Peer Mentor will provide you with the opportunity to meet your fellow mentees and other students on your degree programme!
International Welcome
If you’re an international student, join our welcome sessions and information fair during International Welcome. Taking place in the Frederick Douglass Centre on Wednesday 10, Thursday 11 and Friday 12 September 2025, you will be welcomed to our University and city and have the opportunity to meet new friends.
ResLife
ResLife supports all of our students within University-owned and managed partnership accommodation. From social events to life skills workshops, ResLife has something for everyone. They are here to build a sense of belonging and community through an organised events programme running 6 days/week. Activities include arts and crafts, book clubs, foosball, movie nights and more!
Advice from students
Check out this blog from Estrella, a Journalism, Media and Culture student: Top tips for making friends at university.
Last reviewed: 15.08.2025