Blog: An introvert's guide to starting uni

Written by Piper 

If you’re an introvert, you might be wondering whether you’ll make friends when you start university. I definitely felt the same. I worried that I wasn’t outgoing enough and that settling into a new environment would be difficult. Over time, I realised that everyone adjusts to university life differently. Here are a few things that really helped me. 

1. Take small steps 

You don’t have to become outgoing overnight. Start with small steps, like saying ‘hi’ to the person sitting next to you or chatting about the class. It often feels much easier than trying to join a big group of strangers. Lectures and group discussions are also great opportunities to meet new people. 

At my first seminar, I didn’t know anyone. I happened to sit next to another student, and when it was time for the group discussion, we naturally ended up working together. What started as conversations about the course soon turned into conversations about everyday life, and over time, we became friends. Sometimes, a simple ‘hi’ really is all it takes to start a friendship. 

2. Enjoy university in your own way 

Going to every social event isn’t the only way to settle into university life. It’s just as important to find a pace that works for you. As well as spending time with friends, I also make time for the things I enjoy. 

I love going to the gym, and I always keep an eye out for the free events happening on campus. Whether it’s a craft workshop, Bread and Beliefs, or a free film screening, these activities are usually much smaller and more relaxed. They’re a great way to enjoy university life without the pressure of a big social gathering. Enjoy university in a way that feels right for you, rather than trying to keep up with everyone else. 

3. Find a quiet space to recharge 

If you find your social battery running low after hanging out with friends, don’t worry. That’s completely normal. You don’t have to rush straight to the next social event every time one finishes. It’s okay to take some time for yourself. 

For me, I usually don’t rush to the next one. Instead, I’ll sit in the library for a while, take a walk around The Vale, or find a quiet spot on the grass to enjoy some fresh air. If I’m lucky, I might even spot a squirrel or two. Those little moments alone are usually enough to help me recharge. Afterwards, I always feel much more relaxed when I meet up with friends again. 

4. Ask for support when you need it 

To be honest, when I first moved to the UK, I felt like I should deal with everything on my own. I didn’t want to bother anyone by asking for help. Later, I realised the University offers lots of support, and many of these services are free and much easier to access than I expected. 

Feeling overwhelmed, or simply want someone to talk to? You can reach out to the wellbeing officers within your school, visit the drop-in wellbeing service, or explore the support available on the Time to Talk webpage. Remember, asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s simply part of looking after yourself. 

Being an introvert doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on university life. Take things at your own pace, and you’ll find your own friends, interests and place to belong.