Ice-Breakers for Your First Week at Uni: How to Meet People Without the Awkward

Starting university is exciting — new city, new course, new flatmates… and a whole lot of new faces. The first week

(aka Freshers’ Week) is all about settling in, figuring things out, and, yes — making friends.

But what if you're not sure how to start a conversation? Or you’re not naturally the “chatty” one in the group? Don’t worry — you’re not alone.

Here are some super simple, low-pressure ice-breakers and conversation starters to help you connect, laugh, and turn those first "hellos" into real friendships.

👋 1. "Where are you from?"

It’s classic for a reason. Easy to ask, and everyone has an answer. It often leads to:

• Shared hometowns
  
  

• Travel stories
  
  

• Or even new places to visit!
  
  

Bonus question: “Was this your first choice uni?” It keeps the convo flowing.

📚 2. "What are you studying?"

Perfect for sparking course-related chat. If you're on the same degree, you’ve instantly got something in common. If not, it's a great way to learn something new or joke about how different your schedules are.

Follow-up tip: “Why did you choose that course?”

🎉 3. “Are you doing anything for [event name]?”

Freshers' events, club nights, movie screenings, society fairs — there’s always something going on. Asking about plans is a great way to:

• Find out what people are into
  
  

• Join in on group plans
  
  

• Start building a social circle
  
  

🏠 4. “What’s your accommodation like?”

Whether you're in halls, private housing, or commuting, this is a great way to compare notes, share horror stories (flatmates who steal milk), or swap decoration ideas.

Pro tip: Offer to help someone unpack or invite them over for a cuppa.

🎮 5. "Do you play any games/watch any shows?"

If you're into gaming, Netflix, anime, or sports — this is your moment. A shared love of FIFA, Stranger Things, or The Office can spark hours of chat (and future binge sessions).

🍕 6. Organise a food-based ice-breaker

Nothing brings people together like food. Try:

• A flat takeaway night
  
  

• Cook together (spag bol is always a winner)
  
  

• Snack swap from your hometown/country
  
  

You’ll bond over kitchen fails and midnight cravings in no time.

💬 7. Play Ice-Breaker Games

These are tried-and-true classics — especially for societies, sports teams, and hall meetups.

• Two Truths and a Lie – Hilarious and surprising.
  
  

• Speed Friending – Like speed dating but for mates.
  
  

• Would You Rather – Endless, ridiculous fun.
  
  

• Uni Bingo – Create a card with things like “Someone who’s lost their student ID” or “Someone from Yorkshire.”
  
  

👀 8. Notice the little things

Sometimes the best ice-breakers come from what’s right in front of you:

• “I love your T-shirt – where’s it from?”
  
  

• “That book looks interesting – is it for your course?”
  
  

• “Is that the queue for [insert freebie]?”
  
  

Being observant = being approachable.

🧊 Final Tips for Breaking the Ice

✅ Smile, even if you’re nervous – it makes a big difference
✅ Everyone is in the same boat – no one has their friend group sorted yet
✅ Don’t force it – not every convo needs to be deep, just start small
✅ Put your phone down – it’s hard to connect when everyone’s scrolling
✅ Say “yes” to things – even if you’re not sure you’ll like it, give it a go!

🎓 In Summary

Making friends at uni isn’t about being the loudest or funniest — it’s about being open, curious, and showing up.

So go on, break the ice. You never know — your future best mate might be one awkward "hello" away.