How to Make Friends at University in Leicester and Build a Social Circle
Stepping onto campus in February can feel a bit quieter than the bustling freshers’ period, but it’s never too late to expand your social circle, especially if you’ve discovered that you don’t quite “click” with your coursemates or flatmates.
In fact, by this stage of the year, according to a “U-Belong” study, 21% of students reported they hadn’t made friends they could trust and rely on, and 19% said they hadn’t made friends they’d spend leisure time with. What’s more, 60% admitted to experiencing anxiety around social situations. The good news? It’s never too late to change that, and Leicester is brimming with opportunities to meet new people.
Whether you’re living in student accommodation in Leicester or already settled in private accommodation in Leicester, here are some down-to-earth tips on making real connections and possibly, friends for life.
Where to Call Home
Hops House
Close to Clarendon Park and popular spots like Victoria Park, Hops House is ideal for students keen on a balance between city life and leafy retreats. You’re just a short stroll from unique cafés and local shops—perfect for weekend meetups.
The Oval
With a gated car park, The Oval (pictured) is a great choice if you like the convenience of driving or need to travel for placements. Organise a group trip to Bradgate Park on a sunny afternoon, and you’ll be making memories (and new friends) in no time.
The Button Factory
Love cycling? The Button Factory has bike storage on-site. Being active can help you meet likeminded people—plan a cycle route with fellow students, or chat with neighbours in the chill-out room before heading out.
1. Put Yourself Out There
Joining societies and sports clubs at DMU or the University of Leicester is a surefire way to find people who love what you love. From dance to debate, there’s a club for nearly every interest. Even if you’re living in a studio leicester student property, not having flatmates doesn’t mean that you should feel alone, when you join a club you won’t feel isolated as you’re part of a group that shares your passion.
2. Balance Work and Friendships
It’s easy to get bogged down in part-time jobs and coursework. Make space for a social life by scheduling coffee breaks or group study sessions. If you’re staying in student studio apartments Leicester, invite coursemates over for a casual revision night—you’ll naturally bond over shared looming deadlines and late-night snacks.
3. Go Out on Your Own
Taking the plunge to attend events solo can be nerve-racking, but it often pays off. Leicester hosts plenty of meetups and socials, including language exchanges, board game nights, and volunteering projects. Chances are, the people there want to meet new friends just as much as you do.
4. Reconnect with Old Friends
Don’t underestimate the friendships you made in sixth form. If they’re around Leicester or nearby, drop them a message. A quick catch-up over coffee can rekindle an old bond and introduce you to their uni friends, too.
5. Study (and Socialise) Together
Busy day of lectures? Suggest a group study session in one of the common areas at your student accommodation in Leicester. You can learn from each other’s course material and chat during breaks—two birds, one stone!
6. Hang Out Consistently
Going to the same gym, café, or lounge area each week helps people recognise you, breaking the ice for new conversations. If you love coffee, become a regular at a campus café. You’ll soon see familiar faces to chat with about coursework, coffee or even weekend plans.
Friendships are formed beyond Freshers Week.
Making friends at university isn’t limited to freshers’ week. Whether you’re exploring the city from Hops House, The Oval, or The Button Factory, or relaxing in student studio apartments Leicester, every day is a new chance to meet people. Put yourself out there, try new clubs, and make the most of what Leicester’s student life has to offer. Before you know it, you’ll have a close-knit group of friends, coursemates and neighbours by your side.
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