6 tips for making friends at university | International Students

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Studying in a new country is an exciting opportunity to meet new people. But moving away from home and settling into a new environment can also be a little intimidating. The first thing to remember is that you are not alone!

Your fellow students are in the same situation as you, and most of them are just as excited to make friends as you are. Plus, our super-friendly Global Village team is here to help you quickly become part of the #BeckettGlobal community.

Image of male student working on his laptop

1) International Welcome Events

When you arrive at Leeds Beckett, you can take part in many International Welcome Events including campus and city walking tours, speed friending, and a welcome party! Hosted by our Global Village, these events will help you settle in and meet new people.

2) Join our Global Buddies
If you're new to Leeds Beckett and want to:
- Find new friends
- Make the most of your time in the UK
- Improve your English
Then sign up to be matched with a Global Buddy! Your buddy will be a current student who will help you adjust to life in the UK, meet new friends and be part of your Leeds support network.

You can sign up to be matched with a Global Buddy.

If you're a current student who would like to volunteer to be a Global Buddy, please complete this volunteer form. Volunteers can be from the UK or overseas and will receive a certificate for volunteering.
3) Get Social

We encourage you to connect with our Global Village. Our friendly team is here to help you settle into university life and make the most of your time in Leeds. You can get in touch with us at any time during the year!

#BeckettGlobal

My advice is to get involved as much as you can with social activities. Joining a society or volunteering are fantastic ways to make friends and has such a positive impact on your social life.

Brian, Accounting student from Mauritius

Brian Jhumun, Mauritius BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance.

Join our Facebook group

If you haven't already, join our vibrant Facebook group for Leeds Beckett International applicants, students, and alumni to connect.

Leeds Beckett International Students 2021

Connect with us on Instagram

Group of international students on campus laughing

143

Did you know?

Leeds Beckett has students from over 143 different countries and territories.

4) Find a community

Leeds Beckett Students' Union (LBSU) is the place for socialising and finding like-minded friends! One of their missions is to provide communities for all students at Leeds Beckett and to empower their members to organise. You'll find more than 60 different communities based on academic, liberation, faith, nationality and interest categories. You can join any community that interests you or where you feel you belong! They provide a supportive environment where you can meet others, shape your uni experience, and truly feel at home at Leeds Beckett.

As busy you'll be starting university and having fun with your new friends, don't forget to keep in touch with your family and friends from home!

How to stay connected with friends and family whilst at university Masters student Ning from Malaysia offers her tips on keeping in touch with friends and family back home.

One of our international student ambassadors having a consversation

6) Be a Student Ambassador

Many international students join our Student Ambassador programme. Get paid to get involved with university events, give campus tours to prospective students, and support your fellow international students before, during and after their time at Leeds Beckett! Many of our ambassadors make friends for life through this programme. We will recruit new ambassadors in October and February.

Get in touch by email to find out more.

globalvillage@leedsbeckett.ac.uk