Published on 12, July, 2020
Im going to university in september this year and Im very anxious about going. Part of me is so hopeful about starting a new life with new people and new experiences, but part of me dreads that I just wont make any friends and Ill be alone and friendless. Im very bad at talking to new people without masking heavily, and Im also bad in new places and situations, like clubbing and drinking - the stuff you do at uni. I know that I can access support from student welfare but Im scared that it wont help me in the way I need to be supported. Is there any advice on making new friends and managing a new situation like uni that anyone knows?
First of all, university is nothing like school. I loathed and hated school, but, in general, I enjoyed university - so much so that I later worked at one for 34 years. In the first couple of weeks I met people I have been friends with ever since. I didn't go clubbing - though I did in my late twenties - or to gigs, at the time, they would have been too overwhelming. However, I did go to pubs and the various students' union bars, also to social functions in my hall of residence. Joining union societies on things that interest you is a good way of meeting and getting to know people. It may seem that every other person is so much more confident than yourself, but they will also have insecurities and problems. I have never been outgoing, I am a thoroughgoing introvert, but if I managed to form a friendship group of 6 or 7 people, then you have every chance of doing the same. BTW I am a diagnosed autistic.