University may not seem as exciting when suddenly we are attending lectures from home and seeing our classmates through a screen. You have been working throughout your entire educational journey to get to this point. You finally got here and trust me, it is worth it, virtual or not.
There is so much more to University than assignments and presentations; it is an experience like no other; a chance to make life-long friends, find your clique, and discover yourself.
Finding people with common interests is already challenging but do not let virtual lectures discourage you from getting to know others! Considering you have already started reading this, it means you are curious, maybe even a little nervous, about how to connect with others through a virtual setting.
This is why we are here writing this article, providing you with tips and tricks to make the most out of your University experience!
Now, enough with the chit-chat, let’s get on with it!
Join a student organisation
I mean, of course, I am going to recommend to join a student organisation. It is only natural for me to put this as a top priority when it comes to making friends.
There are various active student organisations that you can join and be part of, either on their executive team or sub-committee team. In case you are not familiar with the organisations, I suggest you click here for the full list!
Not only will you be gaining experience for your future career and getting a taste of how an organisation works, but you will also be getting to know different individuals from different backgrounds.
Speaking from experience, a student organisation did not only help me with my current course and future career, but I also got to meet a very lovely bunch!
Don’t be afraid of group projects!
Everyone’s worst nightmare; group projects. But I swear, they are not as bad as you may think. Sure it is scary, getting grouped up with someone you may not know but that is how friendships blossom. Every friend you made up to this point, were all complete strangers until one of you initiated a conversation.
A group project does not only teach you how to work within a team but you get to know other individuals within the same course as you. Since they are already in your course, you already have one interest in common – see, that was easy!
Some group projects will be virtual and that is totally fine! They can still be fun and they can still work. ‘Group projects’ doesn’t mean constantly talking and working on your assignment. Set up virtual meetings and make sure to break the ice between you all, a simple “How was your day?” or “Everyone good with their assignments?” works wonders.
Attend virtual events
Since physical events aren’t technically an option at this point, virtual will have to do. This does not make them any less interesting!
Student organisations are constantly working their butts off to host events for everyone to enjoy in this difficult time. Various virtual events are posted on Facebook so make sure to keep an eye out (we also post monthly articles filled with events happening that month!)
Considering they are open to everyone, those attending will probably have the same interests as you so make sure to participate.
Make the most of practicals (or physical lectures)
Even though the majority of the lectures are being held online, some courses are still offering a few physical lectures here and there. Take this as an opportunity to make friends! Due to COVID-19 regulations, groups tend to be smaller than usual as well so this makes it even easier for you to make new friends and integrate with everyone.
Host virtual course meetups
Usually, at the beginning of the first semester, a group chat or a Facebook group is created in order to do what we know best – complain! Complaining about your assignments, lectures, and lecturers, exams and the list goes on. You would be surprised how easily people bond by complaining.
Aside from complaining, you should also try creating a friendly environment within your course group by hosting events between you. Get to know who your student rep is and work together to come up with virtual meetups. Play apps together such as Houseparty or Cards Against Humanity or maybe host a Netflix party.
Obviously, everyone makes friends in their own way, and in their own time, these are simply just a stepping stone for anyone of you who may feel lost at such a strange period. That being said, welcome to Uni, and make sure to make the most out of it!
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