You will meet so many people during O Week, but where do you start with someone you know nothing about? It can be intimidating for some and starting conversations with strangers can be daunting. Remember that everyone is in the same boat as you, even the confident people, so be yourself and you’ll soon find people who are just like you. Here are my 5 tips on how to break the ice when meeting new people and how to make new friends this O Week.

1. Introduce Yourself

As soon as you arrive, throw yourself into the deep end and go and introduce yourself to your fellow first years. Making the effort to get to know people may mean venturing outside of your comfort zone, but that is what uni is all about! Image c/o Charlotte Martin

2. Leave Your Door Open And Listen To Music

For all those moving away from the comfort of their own homeland, one of the things most students forget to take to uni but one of the most important; a doorstop. Wedging your door open in O week shows you are approachable, easy going and friendly to others and creates a chance to make conversation. Whack on your favourite music and the ice is broken!

3. Play ‘Never Have I Ever’

Never have I ever is a great game to play with a big group of people that have just met each other. It’s an amazing way to break the ice and get to know people, and it’s guaranteed to get everyone laughing. Playing this with a few drinks involved will help calm your nerves. Image c/o Charlotte Martin

4. Make An Effort

One of my biggest anxieties is inviting myself along to events, but in the spirit of O Week make the most of the open invite to pretty much everything.  Friendships are always formed when there’s food involved. Invite a group out for food and a few drinks and take the time to get to know one another. Image c/o Charlotte Martin

5. Socialise

The best way to break the ice at uni is to socialise as much as possible. Whether it’s going out, joining in with fancy dress or organising a movie night in. If you’re feeling homesick, shutting yourself away won’t make you feel any better. The people around you will be going through the same thing so keep yourself busy and you’ll soon be having too much fun to miss home!