The days at uni where you find yourself having nothing to do, feeling bored or even lonely can be tough. When we don’t have work it can be hard to think of things to do so we end up just scrolling through TikTok in bed for countless hours. Because of this, I thought I’d put together a list of ten things to do to amp your uni experience and ensure you are doing things you love in your spare time.
1. Join societies
I know it’s a cliché that we hear all the time but this is a great opportunity to do something you enjoy and meet new people who share that same interest. Whether it’s art, beer or even quidditch don’t hesitate to put yourself out there- you’ve got nothing to lose! And remember it is never too late to join one.
2. Join the gym
The gym’s not everyone’s cup of tea but it’s essential for your physical and mental health that you get your blood pumping. Many gyms do deals with universities where students can go free, like The Edge in Leeds, so make sure you do your research and join one.
3. Go shopping/window shopping
Whether you have the money for it or you don’t, head into the city centre and shop around.
I don’t know if I should be encouraging you to use up your student loan, but I personally love a bit of retail therapy and I think we can all agree it boosts your mood when we find the perfect pair of jeans.
4. Charity shop crawl
I don’t know about your area, but where I live there are loads and loads of charity shops so I love to do the equivalent of a pub crawl – a charity shop crawl. If you’re too broke to do point three (and let’s be real, as students we pretty much all are) head to your local charity shops and look around – you never know what you might find. And of course, it’s a great sustainable and cheap way to shop.
5. Go to the library
This one’s more on the academic side but I know most of us have our lectures still online so we are forced to do work in our bedrooms. But I think it’s important that we separate our relaxation space from our academic space – thus I like to go to the library and do my work. It’s a great excuse to get out of the house and frankly, I find it more relaxing and easier to work there as there are fewer distractions.
6. Reach out to people you wouldn’t normally reach out to
I feel we are often guilty of staying in our social circle as it feels like a familiar and safe place- but if you’re feeling a bit bored or lonely reach out to the girl you sit next to in your seminar and ask if she wants to go for a couple of drinks. Chances are she’s just as bored or as lonely as you and needs a friend – and I don’t know about you but when someone reaches out to me I feel so flattered!
7. Plan trips in advance- it’s something to look forward to
As the winter months are fast approaching, we can get into the January blues. Because of this, maybe book a trip with your loved ones so you can put it in the calendar and have it to look forward to. It’s a great way to boost your mood as you can actually be excited about something and you can plan what you’re going to do and wear on the trip.
8. Explore your city, find places you’ve never seen
Whether your first, second, third or even fourth year, I guarantee there is still a part of your city you have not discovered yet. If you’re bored, grab a buddy or go alone and explore the place you live. It’s a great way to broaden your horizons and not go to the places you usually do as that can get a bit boring.
9. Read a good book
It’s important for our mental health that we put our phones down once in a while and immerse ourselves in a good book. It’s a great way to wind down and relax. Maybe get your friends or family to read it too so, you can talk about it together. If you’re struggling to find a good book, check out some Her Campus book recommendation articles!
10. See your family/friends
And finally, if you find yourself bored and at a loose end at university, just go book a train ticket and see your friends and family. I’m sure they’d be delighted to see you and I think it’s important to touch base with our loved ones as they give us that serotonin boost that we need.
Words by: Lara Gallop
Edited by: Holly Phillips