Worried about making friends at university? Discover the best ways to meet new people and settle into student life in Nottingham with tips from AchGoldEstates. Feeling Nervous? You’re Not Alone
Starting university is exciting, but let’s be honest, it’s also nerve-wracking. One of the most common concerns is how to make friends at uni, especially in a brand-new city. But if you’re heading to Nottingham, you’re already ahead of the curve. Known for its vibrant student community and buzzing social life, Nottingham is one of the best cities for students in the UK.
Whether you’re at the University of Nottingham or Nottingham Trent University, you’ll have access to countless opportunities to meet new people and build strong university friendships.
Join Societies and Campus Groups
Tap into Shared Interests to Find Your People
One of the best ways to meet people at university is through student societies and clubs. With options ranging from sports teams to academic interest groups, and from cultural clubs to quirky hobbies like board games or anime, there’s something for everyone.
At both UoN and NTU, joining a society is one of the top student networking tips. It’s low-pressure, fun, and fosters a real sense of belonging. You’ll find many events welcoming beginners — no prior experience needed!
Looking for Nottingham student community involvement? Societies are the gateway.
Events and Freshers’ Week Tips
Freshers’ Week: The Social Launchpad
Freshers’ Week in Nottingham is packed with events that make it easy to meet people and make friends fast. From Welcome Fairs to club nights and bar crawls, there’s no shortage of fun activities.
Top social tips for Nottingham students during Freshers:
- Say yes to group outings, even if you’re nervous.
- Introduce yourself to your coursemates — everyone wants to connect!
- Go to a society taster session or two.
- Ask others what events they’re attending — tag along!
These events are built for connection, so don’t be afraid to be a little bold.
Living in Student Accommodation
Friendly Living Spaces = Instant Friendships
Where you live plays a huge role in your student social life in Nottingham. In fact, many students say their flatmates become their closest uni friends. That’s why choosing the right place to live matters.
Popular student areas like Lenton, Dunkirk, and The Park are full of shared houses and hubs where you’ll naturally meet other students.
At AchGoldEstates, we offer friendly student accommodation that makes socializing effortless. Whether you prefer a lively shared house or a relaxed flat, our properties are ideal for those who want to thrive both socially and academically. It’s perfect for international students in Nottingham, too — we make it feel like home from day one.
Using Apps and Social Media to Connect
Go Digital to Build Real-Life Friendships
Apps and online communities are a great way to find your people before or during term. Whether you’re introverted or just proactive, these platforms help ease social anxiety and create real connections.
Recommended platforms:
- Bumble BFF – find local friends in Nottingham
- Meetup – attend group events and hobby-based meetups
- Facebook Groups – “Nottingham Uni Freshers 2025” and beyond
- Uni platforms – many courses and halls have private group chats
It’s one of the most effective ways to make friends as a new student in the UK — and you can do it from your phone!
Student Quotes: Real Stories from Nottingham
Ben, NTU Student, Living in Lenton:
“I found my house through AchGoldEstates. I didn’t know anyone when I moved in, but within a week I was cooking pasta with my housemates and watching movies together. It made all the difference in settling in.”
Aisha, UoN Society Member:
“I joined the Book Club and found friends who love fantasy novels like me. It helped me feel less homesick and more confident in social settings.”
Carlos, International Student from Spain:
“Joining the international student WhatsApp group helped me find friends even before arriving. Now I have a crew I study and hang out with every week.”
There are so many ways to make friends at university in Nottingham, and your accommodation is one of the best starting points. From shared living spaces to society meetups, the city is full of opportunities to connect, grow, and enjoy student life.
At AchGoldEstates, we believe that where you live should support your social journey. Explore our student housing in Nottingham today and find a place where friendships flourish.
