It’s that time of year again– the time new cohorts of students arrive at St Andrews, many of them never having met anyone there. It can be nerve-wracking meeting new people, but it can be even more challenging to reach out to those you met once at a bonfire in Freshers’ Week and ask them if they want to go for a coffee. Solidifying friendships at university can be tricky, so here are some activity ideas you can suggest to people you want to know better!
Baking
There’s nothing that warms my soul more than baking a batch of brownies or some Kinder Bueno cupcakes (I’ve even linked them for you – seriously, try them). Baking alongside new people and combining your talents can make the process all the more wholesome. If you mess up and get eggshell in the mix, someone else will ensure that only the yolk goes in the mixture to save you from a crunchy traybake. When one of you is lacking in your whisking skills, another person will be able to pick up the slack . Baking is an active, multi-step process with just enough room for conversation. You don’t have to worry too much about what to say because you’re too busy measuring. But if you are looking for something to add to the conversation, think back to any occasion where you had a baking/cooking disaster. I can think of plenty, and the stories always land people in giggles!
The next time you meet a group of people you get along with, suggest a lazy Sunday of baking. If you’re living in halls, don’t be put off by the not-so-clean kitchens!)
Picnic
Yes, the weather has just turned bitterly cold. I, however, am still hoping for one or two more days of warmth and sunshine, although I admit that this might be my wishful optimism. Nonetheless, the idea of a picnic still stands as a good plan for getting to know other people. With three beaches and two quads, St Andrews is not lacking in potential spots. Feel free to invite as few or as many people as you want! If you’re feeling a little shy, or are concerned that you haven’t met enough people yet (which is fine), try suggesting a picnic in a hall or a subject group chat. Everyone can bring something different, and you can all enjoy good food and conversation while taking in the St Andrews scenery!
Go to an event together
Before I go any further, let me make one thing clear: you don’t need to splash the cash. You don’t need to splurge on events like Opening Ball. Going to a particular society’s event is an effective way to solidify the friendships you already have, whilst getting a chance to meet new people who share your interests. Dog-cuddling, for example, is a particular favourite of many students in St Andrews. Who wouldn’t want to meet like-minded people whilst getting some fluffy cuddles?
Why not do something you’ve never done before? Perhaps a life drawing class or Tuesdays at the Cosmos Centre? Trying new activities together is an easy and effective way to bond with and get to know new people. !
Charity shopping
St Andrews practically overflowing with charity shops. I could spend hours meticulously sifting through the racks with my friends. Whether it’s picking out clothes you think would suit one another, or having a laugh at some of the more quirky items (I did buy a Christmas pudding hat from Barnardo’s last year), charity browsing is a surefire way to relax and chat to new people. You could even play the game of picking out outfits for each other!
Forming friendships can be hard throughout university, but especially in your first year. It can be daunting to initiate plans with new people. I hope these casual, low-intensity ideas help take the pressure off. Just remember, people always like being asked to do something, and if they don’t, they’re not someone you want to be friends with. Give it a try and you might find that you have a friend for life!